Increased health costs and unsatisfactory traditional health care results are driving more and more people to consider various forms of alternative treatment, both for specific conditions and for overall health maintenance. Everything including chakra balancing, crystals, auras, mediation, aromatherapy, homeopathy, and naturopathy seems to be open to consideration. Reiki Therapy has also been gaining recognition since its introduction to the West in the 1970s.
Probably originating in Tibet over 3000 years ago, the Reiki Therapy of today was rediscovered by a Japanese Christian educator, Dr. Mikao Usui in Kyoto in the mid 1800s. He spent more than 20 years in understanding and refining the techniques that are practiced today. The word “Rei” refers to being spiritually guided, and “Ki” means energy force. Together this concept suggests that the World Energy Force surrounding each person can be drawn in by a practitioner and passed down or transferred to a waiting recipient. While self-healing remains the responsibility of each person, the practitioner serves as a conduit from which collected energy may be released.
Reiko Therapy emphasizes body, mind, and spiritual healing through the laying on of hands in a natural and holistic manner. The three primary areas of focus are on or near the head, the back torso, and the front torso. Practitioners may actually lay their hands on these areas or position them directly above. The usual treatment involves a whole body approach of about 30 minutes and another 10 minutes directed to any specific area that is in need of healing.
The goals of Reiki therapy are difficult to measure but specific in purpose. General relaxation to the point of relieving pain and suffering is a basic premise. Destroying energy blockages that may be hindering healing and well being is another goal. It is believed that when the body’s energy levels are balanced, it will be more successful at detoxifying itself as well. Participants often say that they experience new vitality and healing energy after their sessions. Improving the quality of life for those suffering from chronic or terminal diseases is also an important aspect of this alternative treatment regimen.
While practitioners are really unable to verify or explain the concept of a universal life energy, limited scientific studies seem to indicate that recipients of a Reiko therapy session become more relaxed, elevated blood pressure readings drop, and skin indicates increased immunity levels. A few hospitals are now including this therapy as a free option for patients recovering from a variety of illnesses. More studies are scheduled to document improvement in health for those undergoing Reiki Therapy.
As more and more traditional physicians explore the possibility of incorporating this form of treatment into their patient care protocols, it is being suggested for pain management, speeding recovery after surgery, and reducing the side effects of certain medications. It has also been recommended for dying patients, as a way to help them relax and experience peace during this most difficult of times.
Since Reiki treatments address the needs of body, spirit, and mind, this therapy has also been recommended for those patients struggling with addictions, emotional concerns, panic attacks, anxiety, and depression. The gentle, focused, one-on-one care and attention seems to meet a need for many people who feel alone, isolated, and afraid. Many participants who arrive stressed and anxious report feelings of calmness and relaxation after their sessions.
Is Reiki Therapy right for you? Consult your physician first if you are dealing with an acute or chronic illness. If life just seems a bit too stressful, and you feel out of balance, perhaps a treatment could help. Since there are absolutely no negative side effects, there is nothing to fear. Maybe a Reiki session could help you find that special place of peace within yourself and encourage your body to heal towards self-healing.