Reiki is similar to reflexology and therapeutic touch. It is a relaxing type of energy therapy applied through gentle touch. Unlike other methods of alternative medicine, its effects have been clinically investigated. In fact, recent studies show that it is helpful in treating stress and pain management. This technique originated in Japan as a way of relaxation and treating stress.

Reduces Anxiety

Reiki has been found to help reduce anxiety. It can be used on both patients and healthy people. Even if you are undergoing other medical treatments, you can try this technique. In fact, a recent review of reiki’s potential as an alternative treatment in medicine and health concluded that this technique is better as compared to placebo in inducing a relaxed state. Some studies that have evaluated the use of reiki in treating depression, anxiety, and pain have reported positive findings.

Fight Depression

A pilot study done on 90 elderly patients showed that reiki could help people experience decreased depression levels after 4 weeks of regular treatments. Some reviews on the use of reiki to fight depression concluded that there is inadequate evidence to support its use.

Relieve Fatigue

Reiki is more effective than music, meditation, and placebo in promoting physical relaxation. However, it does not have a great difference in mental relaxation. For cancer patients, reiki has been found to increase their quality of life. They experience less pain, anxiety scores, and tiredness. These beneficial effects remain for a few weeks.

Reduces Pain

The truth is that reiki has been found to be effective in improving range of motion. This makes it a great technique for patients with painful shoulder issues. When it is administered with sedative medication, there is no need for using pain-killing medication during medical procedures such as colonoscopy. It has been found to help reduce the intensity of pain, breathing rate, and anxiety, and reduces the number of painkillers required.

Stimulate Healing and Growth

Recent studies showed that reiki enhances the growth of bacterial colonies. Experts argue that this is an indication that reiki can help to heal injuries in humans and animals. However, there is a need to do a lot of research in this area. For instance, patients with stroke found that reiki did not help them with stroke recovery.