Inner peace can be difficult to achieve. However, attending regular Reiki sessions can help get you there. A Japanese energy healing technique, Reiki was created by Dr. Mikao Usui in the early 20th century as a way to help patients manage their illness symptoms and improve their well-being.
Since its inception, Reiki has been hailed by holistic health influencers and celebrities alike. Actress and Goop creator Gwyneth Paltrow turned to Reiki during her “conscious uncoupling” from her ex-husband, and Sopranos actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler credits the technique for alleviating pain from chronic multiple sclerosis.
The University of Minnesota reported recipients of Reiki typically leave sessions saying things like “I feel very refreshed and seem to be thinking more clearly,” “I feel more relaxed than even after a massage,” and “My headache is gone.”
Those are just a few of the benefits Reiki provides. Research has proven routine Reiki treatments to be advantageous for a number of conditions and symptoms, including:
1. Pain & Fatigue Relief
According to the Institute of Medicine, more than 100 million American adults experience chronic pain, which reduces their quality of life. Reiki has increasingly been employed to assist with the discomfort. Chronic pain isn’t just caused by physical ailments. Mental health and prolonged stress can affect nerve pain. This is where Reiki comes in. The International Association of Reiki Professionals states Reiki can resolve this “by allowing healing energy to flow freely.” A 2018 study examined the effectiveness of Reiki in relieving lower back pain and found it to be a more cost effective and faster treatment than physiotherapy.
A 2015 study researched the effects of Reiki on those being treated for cancer. Participants in the intervention group received five, 30-minute, distant Reiki sessions. After completing the program, they indicated reduced pain, stress, and fatigue. That same year, researchers found Reiki lessens pain, anxiety, and the breathing rate in women one to two days after they’ve had a cesarean delivery. In 2018, a review of more than 50 randomized trials concluded “there is evidence to suggest that Reiki therapy may be effective for pain and anxiety.”
2. Depression & Anxiety Treatment
The International Association of Reiki Professionals explains Reiki can be beneficial for depression in several ways. It restores a sense of mental and physical balance, which may improve a person’s mood. A session may also increase relaxation, reduce stress, and instill a feeling of control. One symptom of depression can be withdrawing from loved ones or feelings of disconnection, so Reiki provides the opportunity to connect with another human being.
A literature review of the application of Reiki on depression in nursing concluded the studies “showed a positive impact of Reiki on depressive clients, it is suggested to perform Reiki treatment by nurses as an adjuvant therapy on depressive clients.” A six-week, single-blind trial of Reiki studied 73 subjects with depressed moods. After receiving regular treatments, many had increased feelings of general well-being and less stress.
3. Symptom Improvement
Reiki can treat symptoms including headaches, tension, insomnia, and nausea, for a variety of conditions including cancer, heart disease, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, infertility, neurodegenerative disorders, Crohn’s disease, and fatigue syndrome.
Cancer Research UK explained Reiki is often used alongside regular treatments as a complementary therapy. The nonprofit states: “Some people with cancer say they feel better after using therapies such as Reiki. Studies show that this is often because a therapist spends time with the person, and touches them.” Many patients also say the technique helps control the side effects of cancer treatments such as pain and sickness. A 2016 study found that women with cancer who utilize Reiki to self-manage their symptoms have experienced an increased quality of life.
Reiki at Northport Wellness Center
Susan Bilella can help you take advantage of the beneficial and healing powers of Reiki at Northport Wellness Center. She uses the technique to revitalize your sense of well-being and tap into your inner peace. Heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually with Reiki. Contact Northport Wellness Center to schedule an appointment.