Reiki is an alternative therapy that involves the transfer of universal energy from a practitioner’s hands to the patient’s body to encourage emotional, physical, and spiritual healing. While Reiki has been practiced for decades, it is just starting to make inroads into mainstream Western medicine.
What is Reiki?
Reiki (pronounced ray-key) is a Japanese word meaning “universal life energy.” The practice is based on the idea that we all have an unseen life force energy flowing through us. Reiki practitioners facilitate healing by removing energy blocks and promote the flow of positive energy. They do this through light touch or by holding their hands slightly above the body.
While Reiki is considered a form of energy healing, it is not associated with any religious or spiritual tradition. It is simply a technique for reducing stress and promoting relaxation and healing on a mind-body level.
Integrating Reiki with Western Medicine
While more research is still needed on its efficacy, Reiki is starting to be integrated into some hospitals and clinics as a complementary therapy in which Reiki and Western Medicine are used alongside. But remember that is not as a replacement for conventional medicine. Here are some of the ways Reiki and Western Medicine is being used in complementary treatment:
- Reducing pain, anxiety, and fatigue in cancer patients – Studies show Reiki can help relieve some of the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.
- Promoting pre-surgery relaxation – Having a Reiki session before an operation can put patients in a calm state.
- Improving recovery from surgery/injuries – Reiki may accelerate healing from surgeries, burns, and other injuries.
- Managing chronic conditions – Reiki is used as a supportive therapy for patients with conditions like heart disease, arthritis, anxiety, and insomnia.
- Enhancing overall wellness – Hospitals and clinics offer Reiki alongside other wellness therapies like massage, yoga, and meditation.
While more large-scale studies are still needed, the initial research is promising. Reiki is a low-risk therapy that promotes deep relaxation and stress reduction, which can be beneficial for many patients. As a complementary part of an overall wellness plan combined with traditional medical care, using Reiki and Western Medicine may become a more widely-accepted therapy.
For Those Interested in Reiki
Anyone wishing to learn the practice of Reiki or receive Reiki healing sessions can contact Dr. Prakash. Dr. Prakash is an experienced Reiki master offering courses and treatments.
