Reiki: a new allied for healing treatments

Reiki: in few words how it works!

What is Reiki and how does it work?

Reiki is a type of energy healing originating from Japan. It was developed by Mikao Usui so you might have also heard Reiki being referred to as the Usui system. It is used to reduce stress, promote relaxation and healing and addresses the body, mind, spirit and emotions.

The word Reiki means universal healing. This complementary therapy is based on the energy flow thought to be flowing through all living things. This energy flow or field has been described as the ‘Ki’, ‘Chi’ or ‘Prana’ in eastern medicine. If this energy flow is low it may mean you are feeling unwell or stressed. Having a high flow usually means we are able to be healthier.

There are different levels to practicing Reiki. A level one practitioner can treat themselves and family and friends. A level two practitioner is allowed to treat people and a level three is called a Reiki master or is a teacher. When looking for a Reiki practitioner, always make sure they are level 2 or above. They should also be registered with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) in the UK.

What can I expect during a Reiki session?

During a Reiki session, the Reiki practitioner or master will place their hands on your clothed body or hovering above it. The touch from the practitioner should never feel or be inappropriate or intrusive and there shouldn’t be any pressure. The session is usually done in a quiet setting and the patient is fully clothed.

How do you know if Reiki works?

The benefits and responses to Reiki treatment vary from person to person. During the session, some people find the treatment relaxing and tend to feel refreshed and their mind ‘clearer’ afterwards.

Some people also get tired a few hours after their session. This is however normal according to Reiki practitioners as they believe this is a normal response from the body.

The effects from Reiki tend to accumulate over time. This means you might not feel much change after the first appointment but might get a more intense experience or effect after a few sessions.

Reiki practitioners often recommend to do a series of few sessions for better results. It is usually an average of four or five sessions. She/he will recommend and discuss with you the time between each session to tailor to your needs. In severe cases, your practitioner might recommend having a few sessions very close together.

What are the mental benefits of Reiki?

As Reiki treatment addresses the body, mind, emotions and spirit, you might get various changes to how you are feeling during and after your treatment. On a physical level, some evidence shows Reiki can lower blood pressure, heart rate and therefore stress hormones in your body.

On an emotional and mental scale, Reiki was found to lower stress levels and body tension. This in turn allows you to relax more and feel emotionally more calm and stable. Some research has previously found Reiki to help psychological well-being by improving mood, self-esteem, improving positive emotions and reducing depression and anxiety.

Can you get Reiki on the NHS?

Unfortunately, only very few hospitals and NHS Trust offer Reiki as a complimentary to conservative treatment. Some hospitals offer it for patients suffering from stress and anxiety and other clinics offer sessions for patients going through conventional cancer treatment as well.

The lack of evidence-based research for Reiki might also explain why the western medical system might be taking a bit of time to open its doors to Reiki practice.

Many Reiki practitioners and Complementary healthcare practitioners aim to integrate Reiki and other adjunct therapies in the NHS. Some charities are working to integrate Reiki in the western medical system and the NHS and are working towards treating NHS staff to help bring awareness.

We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!