Reiki and Chronic Pain
According to the International Association of Reiki Professionals, “chronic pain” is defined as pain that lasts longer than three to six months. It can stem from physical as well as mental disturbances. Individuals suffering from chronic pain are prescribed pain medications to provide temporary relief from the pain. However, this rarely alleviates the source, and can often interact with other daily prescriptions. This is where Reiki can step in.
Reiki is a form of energy that is believed to improve the free flow of life-force energy. Although there is limited scientific research examining the advantages of Reiki, many people say that Reiki has helped them manage chronic pain, right from arthritis to migraine. It is also believed to reduce anxiety and depression.
According to a study published in "The International Journal of Behavioral Medicine”, it has been found that Reiki demonstrates “strong evidence” for relieving pain among those suffering from chronic pain.
In general, after receiving Reiki, the study participants have reported activation of their energy, stating that it caused relief from their pain, while promoting body relaxation and decreasing anxiety. In conclusion, after five sessions of Reiki, a marked improvement in complaints of chronic pain was perceived through the reports of the subjects. It also contributed to a balance in the emotional, mental, physical and spiritual needs of the individuals.
How does one perform Reiki at the home? Reiki is performed with the patient seated or lying down, and begins with the healer gradually scanning his or her body, head to toe.
The life force energy flows to the area most in need of healing. The Reiki practitioner then applies light pressure to those zones that need therapeutic treatment, one by one—often the head, torso, knees, feet and back—to expedite the recovery of the individual.
Hope you found this article helpful. If you or someone you know is suffering from chronic pain, you can approach a Reiki practitioner to help with recovery.