Reiki for Pain Management, Stress Reduction and Alleviation of Anxiety
Over the years I have been practicing Reiki the most common question I’ve been asked about it is ‘What is it?’ The quickest answer to this question is ‘The simplest of therapies bringing the most profound results: Reiki is Hands-on Healing.’ But that isn’t enough, so let’s read on to learn a little about Reiki, how it has been tested and is used:
What? Reiki is an ancient natural healing art and a touch healing system using ‘laying-on of hands’. Truly holistic in nature, Reiki healing sessions promote healing on all levels: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.
Where? The Reiki system of ‘laying-on of hands’ is documented as being discovered and practiced in Japan in the mid-1800s, although it is commonly believed to be traced back to early Tibetan teachings from around 3000BCE. In addition, it is considered by many to be the healing method employed by Buddha and Jesus Christ.
Why? Reiki does not conflict with other health care but enhances its results. It does not interfere with traditional medical treatment but facilitates the benefits and speeds the recover from any toxic side effects. It also may be used in conjunction with other complementary healing modalities and for maintenance of health and well-being.
How? For some time, scientific studies have been conducted in the area of laying-on of hands; however, proven clinically validated studies are limited. The most well known Reiki study was conducted in 1997 by Karin Olson, RN, PhD, from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The purpose of the study was to explore the usefulness of Reiki as an adjuvant to opioid therapy in the management of pain. A pilot study was conducted involving 20 volunteers experiencing pain at 55 sites for a variety of reasons, including cancer. A highly significant reduction in pain was indicated following the Reiki treatment. (1)
Little traditional scientific evidence exists. However, Dr. John Zimmerman of the University of Colorado has established that magnetic fields around the hands of healers are up to several hundred times stronger than those fields around non-healers, using a superconducting quantum interference device. (2)
Reiki is completely safe. There is no danger involved in using or receiving Reiki treatments. Reiki has no contraindications, and it has been shown to be effective in cases when there is no belief in it. The recipient does not have to believe in Reiki for it to work; the recipient only has to be open to receive a treatment. That said the only guarantee that can be made for a Reiki session is that stress and anxiety will be lessened. Testimonials are personal, varying with people from slight improvement in disease symptoms to complete wellness. Using Reiki is a highly personal experience.
Reiki is often used for self-help. The first degree or first level of training is primarily for personal use, and individuals often learn Reiki for this purpose. When going to see a professional therapist you can expect to lie on a massage-type table for anything from around 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. Reiki therapists have learned a series of hand positions which cover the entire body, both front and back. However a skilled therapist may use their own stylized set of hand placements and make intuitive adjustments to personalize your treatment. You will not be required to remove clothing and you will not be touched inappropriately or at any time be made to feel uncomfortable by a reputable therapist.
You will enter a state of deep relaxation comparable to a meditative or day-dreaming state. You may have sensations of tingling and pleasant dream-like impressions and many see floating balls of color in their imaginations!
Reiki is not regulated anywhere in the world, however there have been attempts to regulate. These are voluntary and there is a general consensus in freedom in the training and practicing process. Therefore the most effective way of finding a Reiki practitioner or therapist is often through referral. All too often, those who call themselves Reiki Masters and teach others have taken ‘quickie’ courses and are not particularly experienced or well-versed in the therapy. Accordingly, it is customary to ask therapists how long they have practiced and what other qualifications they bring to their practice. Because Reiki is used in conjunction with numerous healing modalities, Reiki Therapists often are versed in other therapies, which can be very useful is assisting patients through the healing process.
At SCT both Founder Jacqueline Fairbrass and Reiki Master/Instructor Adrian McKeague teach Reiki in the classroom and are practising therapists. Contact Jacqueline and/or Adrian for class times and availability.
If you would like to learn more you may purchase the First Degree Reiki Training Manual from us or contact Adrian by phone (613) 203-7343 for a free 15 minute consultation.
