Q&A: How Reiki can be part of a holistic care approach, by Alyssa Vincent, Reiki Practitioner

Through his search, he turned to Buddhist teachings and discovered ancient Sanskrit texts describing healing techniques from Buddhist monks. Through a 21-day meditation on Mt. Kurama, he experienced a profound spiritual awakening, during which he received the symbols and practices now central to Reiki.

Today, Reiki is not a religion but a spiritual practice designed to complement other forms of somatic and wellness practices. Reiki emphasizes the flow of “Ki” (life energy) to promote relaxation and stress reduction. Practitioners use specific hand positions to channel energy into the recipient’s body, whether in person or at a distance.

Can Reiki be explained through Western science?

A: While Reiki isn’t fully understood within current Western scientific frameworks, it aligns with principles in energy medicine and quantum physics. Research into biofields, subtle energy fields that influence health, suggests these systems play a role in healing. Reiki’s calming effects can also be attributed to physiological responses, such as activating the parasympathetic nervous system (rest-and-digest state) and releasing endorphins to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

You do not need a physics background to appreciate how quantum theories might connect to Reiki! Quantum physics explores the unpredictable behavior of subatomic particles, such as electrons and photons, which can exist in multiple places simultaneously, a phenomenon confirmed in 2012 by Nobel-winning physicists. This unpredictability inspires theories about biofield energy, with Reiki practitioners believed to guide healing energy through interactions with these particles, even across distances.

Scientists have also explored biomagnetic energy during energy therapies. In the 1990s, Dr. John Zimmerman measured pulsating biomagnetic fields from practitioners’ hands during healing sessions. Similarly, Japanese researchers found that practitioners of modalities like Reiki, Qigong, and yoga emitted biomagnetic fields 1,000 times stronger than the human heart. These frequencies, measured at 8-10 Hz, align with biological healing processes like cell growth and DNA synthesis, offering a fascinating glimpse into how Reiki might influence well-being on an energetic level.

What does it mean that Reiki is a biofield?

In a Western medicine context, Reiki is often described as biofield energy, which is a natural electrical or magnetic field produced by living beings. Every cell in the human body generates small electrical currents, which in turn create magnetic fields. This concept is already used in healthcare: electrocardiograms (ECGs) measure the heart’s electrical activity. At the same time, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) relies on the body’s magnetic field to create detailed images.

Reiki and similar touch therapies may work by influencing the magnetic fields between practitioner and recipient. While research is ongoing, this perspective provides a scientific lens for understanding how biofield energy might support stress reduction, relaxation, and an improved sense of well-being.

Is Reiki part of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)?

Reiki is part of a broader category of CAM therapies, which emphasize holistic health by addressing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. CAM includes therapies like acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and energy healing like Reiki. These modalities work alongside Western medicine to provide patient-centered care.

Can Reiki help with specific health issues?

Reiki supports overall well-being and complements medical treatments, but it is not a replacement for conventional care. It is often used to reduce stress, ease pain, and support recovery from illness or surgery. Through a stress reduction approach, many clients find Reiki sessions a beneficial addition to their holistic approach to managing chronic conditions, improving sleep, and enhancing emotional resilience.

Is Reiki the same as meditation or massage?

While Reiki can induce a meditative state, it is a distinct practice focusing on energy flow rather than active meditation exercises. Unlike massage, Reiki involves no physical manipulation of tissues; it is a gentle, non-invasive approach that uses light touch or no touch at all.

Can Reiki be combined with other therapies?

Absolutely. Reiki is safe to integrate with other treatments, including conventional medical care, physical therapy, or counseling. It complements practices like acupuncture, physiotherapy, chiropractic care, massage, counselling, yoga, and meditation.

Is Reiki tied to a specific religion or belief system?

No. Reiki is not a religion or doctrine. It is a practice rooted in universal energy, open to individuals of all backgrounds and beliefs. Its principles focus on compassion, relaxation, balance, and improving a person’s sense of well-being.

Who can benefit from Reiki?

Reiki is safe for all ages and health conditions, including chronic pain, chronic health ailments, anxiety, depression, and stress – it is even great for plants and animals! Reiki complements Western medical treatments, offering a holistic approach to relaxation and stress reduction.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions depends on your goals and individual needs. Some people benefit from a single session to relax and reset. Other folks schedule regular sessions for ongoing support for stress reduction.

How do I know if Reiki is right for me?

If you are curious about improving your well-being, managing stress, or exploring holistic treatment modalities, Reiki might be a great fit. It is particularly helpful for those seeking a gentle, person-centered, supportive practice to complement other treatments.

How do I choose a Reiki practitioner?

Look for a certified practitioner with level II or level III training in traditional Usui Reiki, Karuna Reiki, and Holy Fire Reiki. If possible, read the practitioners professional bio and check that their treatment approach resonates with your goals and values. As with selecting care from any type of care provider it is important that you feel safe, comfortable, respected, and supported during sessions.