Benefits of Reiki for Breast Cancer Patients
#PeterSclass-Reiki
What is Reiki?
The word “Reiki” translates to “universal life energy.” The technique was developed in Japan and hinges on the belief that pain, illness and other negative conditions occur because spiritual energy pathways in the body are either disturbed or blocked. During a Reiki session, the practitioner encourages the client’s energy to flow freely throughout the body. Once this energy is flowing properly, pain sensations decrease and the body can begin to heal itself more effectively.
Reiki is non-invasive and involves only light touch. During a Reiki session, the practitioner will place his or her hands in up to 15 specific positions above the client’s body. He or she may also touch the patient lightly. Each hand position will be held for up to five minutes at a time. The entire session will last for approximately one hour.
Benefits of Reiki for Breast Cancer Patients
Although Reiki is not a substitute for traditional cancer treatment, it may provide a number of benefits for patients with breast cancer. This technique can be used for patients who have just learned of their diagnosis, patients who are already involved in treatment protocols and patients who are recovering from breast cancer. Some of the benefits of Reiki treatment for individuals with breast cancer may include:
Research Supports the Effectiveness of Reiki
Recent research studies support the effectiveness of Reiki in patients dealing with all types of cancer, including breast cancer. For example, according to Penn medicine, the Abramson Cancer Center has released reports showing that, when combined with traditional treatments, the use of Reiki can reduce stress levels, alleviate anxiety, improve relaxation and reduce perceptions of pain in patients with cancer. Likewise, according to the American Cancer Society, one research study showed that cancer patients participating in Reiki sessions were less likely to experience pain than those who were not participating in Reiki sessions.
Anecdotal evidence provides additional support for Reiki’s benefits. Patients have reported feeling more relaxed after Reiki treatments, even in the later stages of cancer. Patients have also reported feeling more mentally and emotionally balanced because of Reiki treatments. Some patients have even said that participating in Reiki treatments reduced the side effects they experienced because of cancer treatment, including nausea and vomiting.