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MOD142 – Reiki
Definition
Reiki is a Japanese energy healing technique developed by Mikao Usui that involves the gentle laying on of hands to channel universal life force energy. The word comes from the combination of 2 words Rei, the channelling of energy like a Ray of sunlight and Ki a word that shares its origin with Chi as in Tai Chi the self-healing gentle exercise, meaning the universal life force of the universe. The word literally means to channel universal life force. This practice aims to promote relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being by balancing the body’s energy systems. Reiki can be performed in person or remotely, making it accessible to individuals seeking to enhance their physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
Explanation
Reiki is based on the belief that a universal life force energy flows through all living beings, and disruptions in this energy flow can lead to illness and disease. Reiki practitioners act as channels for this healing energy, directing it to areas of the body where it is needed most. By placing their hands lightly on or just above the recipient’s body, practitioners facilitate the flow of energy, aiming to clear blockages, balance the energy centres (chakras), and promote the body’s natural healing processes. This gentle, non-invasive technique supports overall well-being and complements other medical or therapeutic treatments. Level 1 training for Practitioners is about self-healing and bringing the energy of the initiate to a state where it can channel energy to a third party or client. Level 2 practitioners learn the set techniques for working with clients. Level 3a gives advanced healing techniques and master practitioner allows the person to attune and certificate other people to level 1 themselves.
Evidence to Efficacy
Research indicates that Reiki offers promising benefits for various aspects of health and wellbeing. A systematic review of randomised placebo-controlled trials published in Frontiers in Psychology in 2022 found that Reiki consistently demonstrates a greater therapeutic effect over placebo for some symptoms of mental health. The evidence suggests Reiki is particularly effective for reducing clinically relevant levels of stress and depression, with moderate to high evidence for anxiety reduction as well.
Several studies have highlighted Reiki’s potential for pain management. A meta-analysis published in PubMed in 2018 revealed that Reiki caused a statistically significant decrease in pain scores compared to control groups. This suggests Reiki is an effective approach for relieving pain.
Research has also shown Reiki’s benefits for relaxation and stress reduction. A study on the effects of Reiki found that it significantly lowered anxiety levels and systolic blood pressure in participants. This indicates Reiki’s potential to activate the parasympathetic nervous system and promote a state of relaxation.
For cancer patients, Reiki has shown promise in improving quality of life. A 2016 study noted improvements in sleep patterns, self-confidence, and depression levels among women with cancer who received Reiki treatments.
In the UK, ongoing research continues to explore Reiki’s efficacy. A study at Goldsmiths, University of London found that the Reiki group showed comparatively greater improvements in illness symptoms and stress.
While more research is always beneficial, the current evidence suggests that Reiki offers a gentle, complementary approach to supporting health and wellbeing across various conditions.
Neuroscience and Physiology
Reiki, offers insights into the intricate workings of the human body and mind. This practice harnesses the power of energy to promote healing and well-being, aligning with principles of both neuroscience and quantum physics.
At the neurological level, Reiki induces significant changes in the autonomic nervous system. Research has shown that Reiki activates the parasympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the “rest and digest” system. This activation leads to a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure, promoting a state of deep relaxation and stress reduction.
Physiologically, Reiki has profound effects on the body. Studies have demonstrated that Reiki treatment significantly reduces heart rate and diastolic blood pressure compared to both placebo and control groups. This suggests that Reiki has a tangible impact on cardiovascular function, potentially improving overall health outcomes.
The quantum physics perspective offers an intriguing framework for understanding Reiki’s mechanisms. Quantum theory posits that everything in the universe, including our bodies, is made up of energy in constant vibration. Reiki practitioners work with this energy, aiming to remove blockages and restore the natural flow within the body. This concept aligns with the quantum principle of interconnectedness, suggesting that the practitioner’s energy can influence the recipient’s energy field, regardless of physical distance.
At the chemical level, Reiki influences the body’s molecular messengers. The relaxation response triggered by Reiki likely increases the production of neurotransmitters associated with well-being, such as serotonin and dopamine. While specific studies on Reiki’s effect on neurotransmitters are limited, the observed reductions in stress, pain, depression, and anxiety support this hypothesis.
Reiki’s impact extends to cognitive function as well. Studies have shown that Reiki can help mild Alzheimer’s patients overcome cognitive impairment to some degree. This suggests that the energy healing techniques employed in Reiki have the potential to influence brain function and neuroplasticity.
The practice of Reiki also demonstrates effects similar to certain medications. For instance, Reiki has been shown to enhance vagal nerve activity, mirroring the effects of beta-adrenergic blockers used in treating heart disease. This provides an exciting link between energy healing practices and conventional medical treatments.
In conclusion, while many aspects of Reiki remain to be fully understood scientifically, the existing evidence points to its potential as a powerful complementary therapy. By influencing the autonomic nervous system, cardiovascular function, and potentially even brain activity, Reiki offers a holistic approach to healing that bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and modern scientific understanding.
Governing Body
In the UK, there is no single regulatory body overseeing all Reiki practitioners, but several organisations provide training, certification, and standards for professional practice. These bodies ensure practitioners adhere to ethical guidelines and maintain high standards of care:
– The lead advisory body for Reiki in the UK, representing various professional associations. It sets standards and guidelines for Reiki practice and offers accreditation through the Reiki National Occupational Standards. Member organisations include The Reiki Association, The Reiki Connection, The Reiki Guild, UK Reiki Federation, and Complementary Health Professionals.
– One of the largest professional associations in the UK, offering support, guidance, and a directory of practitioners. It aims to bring Reiki into mainstream awareness and provides resources for practitioners at all levels.
– community-focused organisation offering membership benefits such as practitioner directories, distance healing services, and lineage verification. TRA also promotes professional practice through its connection with the Reiki Council.
Globally, there are additional organisations that provide training and certification:
– A global organisation supporting independent Reiki practitioners and teachers with professional memberships that emphasise high standards of practice
– An inclusive global association welcoming practitioners from all lineages and training backgrounds. It provides resources for professional development and business support.
These organisations help ensure that practitioners are well-trained and adhere to ethical standards, giving clients confidence in their chosen practitioner’s qualifications and professionalism.
What Good Looks Like
In the context of Reiki, a good experience should provide you with a deeply relaxing and rejuvenating session. Here are the key elements that define what a successful Reiki experience looks like:
- You’ll find yourself in a peaceful, comfortable environment, typically lying fully clothed on a treatment table with a pillow and blanket available.
- You’ll experience the practitioner gently placing their hands on or slightly above specific areas of your body, holding each position for about 3 minutes.
- You’ll notice a sense of warmth or tingling sensations as the Reiki energy flows through the practitioner’s hands into your body.
- You’ll feel a deep state of relaxation wash over you as the Reiki energy works to balance your body’s energy flow.
- You’ll likely experience a reduction in stress and worry as the Reiki principles encourage you to release negative thoughts and focus on the present moment.
- You’ll potentially feel subtle sensations throughout your body as the practitioner moves their hands to different positions, working from your head down to your feet.
- You’ll have the opportunity to draw in the Reiki energy as needed, allowing it to flow where your body requires healing.
- You’ll notice the practitioner maintaining a focused and intentional presence throughout the session, creating a safe space for your healing.
- You’ll experience the session lasting between 45 to 90 minutes, giving ample time for the energy to work through your system.
- You’ll leave the session feeling refreshed, balanced, and potentially experiencing a sense of physical and emotional well-being.
Remember, a truly good Reiki experience is one where you feel completely at ease, achieving a state of deep relaxation and energy balance that’s difficult to replicate in everyday life.
What to Ask a Practitioner
When considering a Reiki Practitioner, it is essential you gather information to validate their authenticity and to see if they are aligned with you and that you feel safe working with them. Here are some questions to ask, along with the kind of responses that indicate a reputable and reliable practitioner:
What level of Reiki training have you completed?
Desired answer: They should be at least a Reiki Level II practitioner, ideally a Reiki Master. They should be able to explain the different levels (I, II, IIIa and Master) and what each entails.
Can you provide details about your Reiki lineage and where you received your training?
Desired answer: They should be able to trace their lineage back to Mikao Usui (the founder of Reiki) and name their teacher(s). Reputable training from recognised Reiki organizations is preferable.
How do you typically conduct a Reiki session? Can you walk me through what I can expect?
Desired answer: They should provide a clear, step-by-step explanation of the process, including the length of the session, positioning (e.g., lying on a massage table), and whether they use light touch or hover their hands above the body.
What sensations or experiences might I have during or after a Reiki session?
Desired answer: They should explain that experiences vary but may include feelings of warmth, tingling, deep relaxation, or emotional release. They should emphasise that it’s also normal to feel nothing unusual.
How do you address scepticism or concerns about Reiki’s effectiveness?
Desired answer: They should respond respectfully, acknowledging that scepticism is normal. They might refer to personal experiences or scientific studies but should not make exaggerated claims.
Do you offer distance Reiki sessions? If so, how do these differ from in-person sessions?
Desired answer: If they offer distance sessions, they should explain how these are conducted and any differences in effectiveness or experience compared to in-person sessions, eg. The use of a picture of the client to create a connection between practitioner and client
Self Study Resources
Here are some recommended resources for learning more about Reiki:
Books
Essential Reiki: A Complete Guide to an Ancient Healing Art by Diane Stein – A comprehensive introduction to Reiki that covers its history, principles, and techniques.
Animal Reiki: Using Energy to Heal the Animals in Your Life by Elizabeth Fulton and Kathleen Prasad – An excellent resource for those interested in applying Reiki to animal healing.
Online Resources
YouTube Channel: Mainstream Reiki by Andrea Kennedy – Offers informative videos on Reiki practice, intuition development, and building a successful Reiki business.
Podcast: Beyond The Reiki Gateway by Andrea Kennedy – Explores various aspects of Reiki practice and its applications.
Website: Reiki Rays – Offers a wealth of articles, courses, and resources for Reiki practitioners of all levels.
Related Therapies
Massage Therapy (MOD97): This hands-on therapy involves manipulating the body’s soft tissues to relieve tension, reduce pain, and promote relaxation. It can enhance the effects of Reiki by addressing physical discomfort and improving circulation.
Meditation (MOD99): A practice that focuses on calming the mind and enhancing awareness. Meditation can deepen the relaxation experienced during Reiki sessions and help individuals connect more profoundly with their inner selves.
Therapeutic Touch (MOD162): A holistic practice that involves the practitioner using their hands to assess and manipulate the energy field surrounding the body. This technique shares similarities with Reiki in its focus on energy healing.
Crystal Healing (MOD37): The use of crystals and gemstones to promote healing and balance. Practitioners believe that different stones can influence the body’s energy fields, making it a complementary practice to Reiki.
Chakra Balancing (MOD27): A practice focused on balancing the body’s energy centres (chakras) to promote physical and emotional health. Reiki practitioners often incorporate chakra work into their sessions to enhance energy flow.
Sound Therapy (MOD154): The use of sound vibrations, such as singing bowls or tuning forks, to promote relaxation and healing. Sound therapy can enhance the meditative state achieved during Reiki sessions.
Yoga (MOD182): A physical and spiritual practice that combines postures, breath control, and meditation. Yoga can complement Reiki by promoting physical flexibility and mental clarity, enhancing overall well-being.
Acupuncture (MOD07): A traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance energy flow (Qi) and promote healing. Acupuncture can complement Reiki by addressing energetic blockages.
Biofield Therapy (MOD20): A broad category of therapies that involve the manipulation of the energy field surrounding the body. This includes practices like Reiki, Healing Touch, and Therapeutic Touch, all aimed at promoting healing through energy work.
Insights
An Introduction to Reiki
A Sceptics Guide to Reiki
PRACTITONER RECOMMENDATION
Our Alchemist Ben is a practitioner of this modality.
If you are in the UK, based around London and the South East, and would like an in-person session, or anywhere for a remote healing then please click the button to go to his page for contact details
We met Chia at the Mind Body Spirit Festival and loved her energy .
She combines Reiki with Hypnotherapy and we’re here for it!
With clinics in Colchester, Essex and North London (Totteridge) if you’re interested then click the button to go to her website for contact details
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