Reiki for Chronic Pain
What is Reiki?
Reiki is an ancient healing technique thought to have originated in India and then reintroduced in Japan in the 1920’s. The Reiki practitioner, by gently placing hands on the client, can help to rearrange the body’s Chi (or life force energy) in such a way as to relieve pain, speed up healing, and promote a sense of peace and well-being within the subject. Considered an Alternative Therapy, and often used to supplement or compliment Western medical techniques, Reiki has been shown to be effective in support of the healing process.
How is Chronic Pain Defined?
Chronic pain is defined as any level of physical discomfort that lasts more than 3 months. Examples are shooting pains, a burning feeling on the skin, or simply undefined dull aching. Because of its prevalence in our society, chronic pain has become a major reason for seeking medical attention – it has been estimated that it costs the healthcare system over $600 billion annually.
How Prevalent is Chronic Pain?
The modern Western lifestyle is increasingly sedentary, sitting in front of our computers for extended periods of time is not good for the body. Additionally, we are increasingly at risk for chronic pain due to lack of physical activity and stress-filled, busy lives. According to an article by the International Association of Reiki Professionals, more than 100 million Americans are affected each year by chronic pain. Further, in the same report, the British Pain Society estimates that up to 10 million British citizens deal with daily pain.
Can Reiki Help to Relieve Chronic Pain?
With pain medications easily available, many people feel these can solve the immediate problem. A worrisome aspect of this approach is the current opioid crisis in the United States. Pain relievers typically mask the symptoms without addressing the underlying cause. Additionally, even over-the-counter pain medications can potentially interfere with other medicines. Regular Reiki treatments can have a positive effect on reducing chronic pain.
What do the studies say?
Recent studies suggest that for subjects who experience chronic pain, regular Reiki treatments have an overall positive effect in pain management. According to an article in Everyday Health, a series of independent studies have shown that the application of Reiki provides significant pain relief for a “broad spectrum” of pain types and, further, has the benefit of lowering anxiety in patients suffering from chronic pain. Another article at Pain Assist reports that applying Reiki in conjunction with other pain reducing therapies, such as acupuncture, serves to enhance the pain relieving benefits.
If you are suffering from a chronic pain condition, why not try Reiki for yourself? Still have questions, please message or call me and I’ll be glad to answer them.
