Energy medicine has many applications: REIKI can improve cancer care

An interesting study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management has exposed the untapped potential of an ancient Japanese healing technique called Reiki. Reiki can be useful in alleviating symptoms experienced by cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy infusions. While the mainstream medical establishment often dismisses energy healing as unscientific, the profound results of this study have punctured a significant hole in the pharmaceutical-centric paradigm, igniting a new conversation about the role of complementary therapies in cancer care. This article delves into the incredible findings, the science behind Reiki, and the untold stories of patients who have found solace in this gentle, non-invasive practice.

Reiki: The energy wave that’s transforming cancer care

Impressive Results: A recent study conducted at University Hospitals in Cleveland tracked 268 cancer patients receiving Reiki during chemotherapy infusions. The results were staggering: pain scores, anxiety levels, nausea, and overall well-being improved significantly after just 15-20 minutes of Reiki treatment.

The numbers don’t lie. The study documented substantial reductions in:
Pain scores: -1.78 points
Anxiety: -2.09 points
Nausea: -2.30 points
Overall well-being: +1.37 points

No Side Effects: Unlike pharmaceutical interventions, not a single adverse reaction was reported, highlighting Reiki’s incredible safety profile.

The science behind Reiki: unraveling the secrets

Reiki, developed by Mikao Usui in Japan in the early 20th century, is based on the belief in a universal life force energy that flows through all living things. Practitioners achieve a state of deep relaxation, allowing them to channel this energy, promoting healing and reducing stress. While the Western medical establishment remains skeptical, the evidence is mounting that Reiki taps into the human body’s interconnectedness, influencing cells, organs, and systems in profound ways.

Dr. Rollin McCraty, a respected heart research scientist, has found that the coherence and energy of the heart directly influence brain function, hormone secretion, and the immune system. Reiki, through its ability to induce states of deep relaxation and reduce stress, may modulate these systems, providing genuine therapeutic benefit.

Dr. Natalie Dyer, lead researcher at Connor Whole Health, was astounded by the overwhelming patient demand for additional Reiki sessions after the benefits experienced during the study. Dr. Francoise Adan, Chief of Whole Health at the Cleveland Clinic, acknowledges the potential of Reiki in benefiting cancer patients but laments its stagnation within mainstream oncology practice.

Embracing the healing power within

Derived from the Japanese words ‘Rei,’ meaning universal, and ‘Ki,’ meaning life energy, Reiki is a hands-on therapy that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and aids in the body’s natural healing processes. It’s often used to address physical, mental, and emotional pain.

One of the primary reasons hospitals are integrating Reiki into their care protocols is its proven ability to reduce pain and suffering. Research, including a study at Hartford Hospital in Connecticut, has shown that Reiki treatments can significantly improve patient outcomes. The study reported an 86% improvement in sleep, 78% reduction in pain, 80% reduction in nausea, and a remarkable 94% reduction in anxiety during pregnancy. Moreover, Reiki can accelerate post-operative recovery.

Finding your Reiki practitioner: Not all practitioners are equal. Seek out Reiki masters with experience working with cancer patients. Many major cancer centers now offer these services – ask your oncology nurse for recommendations.

The experience: Expect a relaxing, non-mystical session, either fully clothed or with light touch on a table, with practitioners lingering over different body parts for 3-5 minutes at a time. Practitioners may offer important considerations based on the energy they feel.

Cost considerations: Insurance coverage for Reiki is hit-or-miss, but many cancer centers now offer these services for free or at low cost. Local wellness centers often provide sliding-scale options or volunteer practitioners.

The real question is no longer whether energy healing deserves a seat at the medical table but why so many doctors ignore evidence that doesn’t fit their pharmaceutical paradigm. As you navigate your cancer journey, remember: healing comes in many forms, and some of the most powerful medicine doesn’t come in a pill bottle.

Sources include:

NaturalHealth365.com

Pubmed.gov

NaturalNewsBlogs.com

HartfordHospital.com