The Power of Reiki

Reiki is a Japanese word that is a combination of two characters (Rei) meaning universal and (Ki) meaning life-force energy.  It involves the gentle laying on of hands to support the body’s ability to heal.  Reiki is an ancient therapy that is thought to originate in the Tibetan Sutras and was lost but renewed by Dr. Mikao Usui, a Japanese monk in the 1800’s. 

The technique requires the Reiki practitioner to place their hands on or above a fully dressed recipient utilizing positive energy to strengthen the body to facilitate healing (Cuneo et al., 2011; Natale, 2010, Vitale, 2007). 

Many feel Reiki is a philosophy and all living things are interconnected by energy.  It is believed that Reiki restores the body’s energy to promote healing and decreases stress (Cuneo et al., 2011; Natale, 2010). 

This modality claims to be effective for anxiety, depression, phobias, indigestion, weight loss, stress, wound healing, and pain (Natale, 2010; Vitale, 2007). Light touch is used to connect the universal life force energy with the individual’s own power to heal and restore balance (Bossi et al., 2007). 

Reiki can also be shared with others who are not present, which is known as distance healing. The goal of this modality is to promote self-healing.

Just keeping you informed.

Bossi, L. M., Ott, M. J., & Susan DeCristofaro, R. N. (2008). Reiki as a clinical intervention in oncology nursing practice. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, 12(3), 489.

Cuneo, C. L., Cooper, M. R. C., Drew, C. S., Naoum-Heffernan, C., Sherman, T., Walz, K., & Weinberg, J. (2011). The effect of Reiki on work-related stress of the registered nurse. Journal of Holistic Nursing, 29(1), 33-43.

Natale, G. W. (2010). Reconnecting to nursing through Reiki. Creative Nursing, 16(4), 171-176.

Vitale, A. (2007). An integrative review of Reiki touch therapy research. Holistic Nursing Practice, 21(4), 167-179.