Reiki is a form of alternative therapy commonly referred to as energy healing. It emerged in Japan in the late 1800's and is said to involve the transfer of universal energy from the practitioner's palms to their patient.
Energy healing has been used for centuries in various forms. Advocates say it works with the energy fields around the body.
Many people who receive Reiki say it works, and its popularity is increasing.
A 2007 survey shows that, in the United States (U.S.), 1.2 million adults tried Reiki or a similar therapy at least once in the previous year. Over 60 hospitals are believed to offer Reiki services to patients.
Here are some key points about Reiki.
Reiki is a form of energy therapy.
Despite skepticism in some circles, it is growing in popularity.
It involves the transfer of energy by laying on hands.
Reiki's advocates say it can treat many conditions and emotional states.
Small studies show that Reiki can slightly reduce pain, but no studies have shown that it is effective in treating any diseases.
Some hospitals in America and Europe offer Reiki, but insurance rarely covers it.
Reiki sessions
Reiki is best held in a peaceful setting, but it can be carried out anywhere. The patient will sit in a comfortable chair or lie on a table, fully clothed. There may or may not be music, depending on the patient's preference.
The practitioner places their hands lightly on or over specific areas of the head, limbs, and torso using different hand shapes, for between 2 and 5 minutes. The hands can be placed over 20 different areas of the body.
If there is a particular injury, such as a burn, the hands may be held just above the wound.
While the practitioner holds their hands lightly on or over the body, the transfer of energy takes place. During this time, the practitioner's hands may be warm and tingling. Each hand position is held until the practitioner senses that the energy has stopped flowing.
When the practitioner feels that the heat, or energy, in their hands has abated, they will remove their hands and may place them over a different area of the body.
Health benefitsAccording to practitioners, the healing effects are mediated by channeling the universal energy known as qi, pronounced "chi." In India, this is known as "prana." This is the same energy involved in tai chi exercise. It is the life force energy that some believe surrounds all of us.This energy is said to permeate the body. Reiki experts point out that, while this energy is not measurable by modern scientific techniques, it can be felt by many who tune in to it.Reiki is alleged to aid relaxation, assist in the body's natural healing processes, and develop emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.It is also said to induce deep relaxation, help people cope with difficulties, relieve emotional stress, and improve overall wellbeing.People who receive Reiki describe it as "intensely relaxing."Conditions that Reiki has been used to help treat include: anxiety, depression, chronic pain, neurodegenerative disorders, fatigue syndromes.