“Reiki Is Better Than Placebo and Has Broad Potential as a Complementary Health Therapy”
“This study reviews the available clinical studies of Reiki to determine whether there is evidence for Reiki providing more than just a placebo effect. The available English-language literature of Reiki was reviewed, specifically for peer-reviewed clinical studies with more than 20 participants in the Reiki treatment arm, controlling for a placebo effect. Of the 13 suitable studies, 8 demonstrated Reiki being more effective than placebo, 4 found no difference but had questionable statistical resolving power, and only one provided clear evidence for not providing benefit. Viewed collectively, these studies provide reasonably strong support for Reiki being more effective than placebo. From the information currently available, Reiki is a safe and gentle “complementary” therapy that activates the parasympathetic nervous system to heal body and mind. It has potential for broader use in management of chronic health conditions, and possibly in postoperative recovery. Research is needed to optimize the delivery of Reiki.”
J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med. 2017 Oct; 22(4): 1051–1057. Published online 2017 Sep 5. doi: 10.1177/2156587217728644
“An Integrative Review of Reiki Touch Therapy Research”
Reiki touch therapy is a complementary biofield energy therapy that involves the use of hands to help strengthen the body’s ability to heal. There is growing interest among nurses to use Reiki in patient care and as a self-care treatment, however, with little supportive empirical research and evidence to substantiate these practices. The purpose of this integrative review is to begin the systematic process of evaluating the findings of published Reiki research. Selected investigations using Reiki for effects on stress, relaxation, depression, pain, and wound healing management, among others is reviewed and summarized. A summary of Reiki studies table illustrates the study descriptions and Reiki treatment protocols specified in the investigations. Synthesis of findings for clinical practice and implications for future research are explored.
Scientific Basis of Mind-body Interventions
“This pilot study is a proof of the concept that the use of RH or Reiki is as effective as manual manipulation PT in improving ROM in patients with painful shoulder limitation when evaluated immediately after a 10-minute treatment. The results suggest that it would be beneficial for physical therapists to be trained in RH or Reiki as well as PT so that they could reduce the need for manual work on patients, at least in cases of shoulder limitations. However, further research is required in which patients are reevaluated over longer time periods to determine whether the healing effect of a 10-minute RH or Reiki session is sustained at least as long as for a 10-minute PT session. The degree of increased effectiveness of longer or repeated treatments of RH, Reiki, or PT would also need to be compared.”
FAQs
What is reiki?
Reiki is a Japanese form of stress reduction and relaxation that practitioners say promotes healing. The idea is that energy flows into the client. It’s that energy that creates the relaxation and healing effect.
What happens during a reiki session?
Your practitioner will invite you into a private room and ask you about any particular issues you would like to address. Then you will lie fully clothed on a massage table or sit in a chair. In most cases, the practitioner will ask you to take a few deep, relaxing breaths before the session starts. A typical session runs between 30 and 60 minutes during which practitioners gently place their hands on or slightly above your body as they travel from head to toes (or toes to head) with the intention of moving energy.
What can I expect to feel during a reiki session?
During the session, you might notice a warming sensation in certain areas. In other areas, you might not notice anything at all. Even if you come in with a particular problem area, you may experience a sense of relaxation that affects your whole body. You might even fall asleep during the session.
How will I feel after a reiki session?
Every person who tries reiki has a different experience. Your experience may vary from session to session. Many people report feeling a sense of calmness in their bodies. Others report reduced pain or a clearer mind. Some people say they notice old symptoms resurfacing in a sort of “healing reaction,” but those symptoms pass quickly.
Which conditions respond to reiki?
Many people turn to reiki to relieve stress and anxiety. Practitioners also say that the therapy helps support the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Some healthcare professionals think that reiki helps reduce the side effects of drugs and radiation and may even reduce or eliminate the need for pain medications.
Is there anyone who should avoid reiki?
No. It’s a gentle therapy that’s safe for anyone, including babies and seniors