What is Reiki?
What Is Reiki, and How Does it Work?
Here’s how this energy-healing practice can help balance you...
Maybe you’ve heard of Reiki but don’t know what it is. Perhaps you’re considering reiki but aren’t sure whether it’s right for you. Or perhaps your doctor has suggested reiki as a form of therapy complementary to your existing medical treatments. Whatever your questions, let's look at the basics of reiki — a safe, gentle, non-invasive form of natural energy-based healing — and what it can do for your body and mind.
Reiki is a Japanese word meaning ‘universal life energy’. It is based on the concept that everything in the universe is made up of energy and this 'life force energy' that flows all around us can be drawn into the body to heal. It is a healing art that works with the imbalances of the body, mind, and spirit to support good health and well-being.
Can reiki replace traditional treatments?
No. Reiki treatment should not be used as a substitute for the consultation of a physician or a psychotherapist.
Reiki complements other types of medical and therapeutic treatments, and it can increase the efficacy of other types of healing.
If you’re already in good health, though, regular reiki treatments can enhance your ability to respond to stress and serve as a form of preventive medicine.
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What conditions does reiki treat?
Because it works on the entire self – mind, body, and emotions – and because it is universal life force energy, reiki may be successful in all types of physical, emotional, mental and spiritual healing.
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Reiki isn’t specific to any particular type of disease or condition but may help people with:
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Cancer.
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Digestive problems.
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Psychological distress, including depression and anxiety.
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Stress-related illnesses.
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Reiki can also help you prepare for surgery, which may help boost your recovery afterwards.
What does reiki feel like?
You may experience the energy in the form of sensations like heat, tingling or pulsing. Sometimes, people feel sensations moving throughout the body, while other people do not perceive any change at all. Most people feel very relaxed and peaceful during reiki treatment, and many fall asleep during the process.
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The health benefits of Reiki
Reiki promotes relaxation, stress reduction and symptom relief to improve overall health and well-being. It can:
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Bring on a meditative state.
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Foster tissue and bone healing after injury or surgery.
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Stimulate your body’s immune system.
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Promote natural self-healing.
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Relieve pain and tension.
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Support the well-being of people receiving traditional medical treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, surgery and kidney dialysis.
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Studies show that reiki treatment may create feelings of:
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Peace.
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Relaxation.
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Security.
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Wellness.
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