Reiki

Reiki is an ancient Japanese therapy that uses gentle touch to heal and relax. The therapist places their hands on, or just above, parts of the body to influence the flow of “qi” (life-energy) around your body.

What is reiki?

Reiki is a gentle form of healing massage therapy that originated in Tibet, and has been practised for more than 2,500 years. Loosely translated, “reiki” means “universal life-force/soul/spiritual energy”. As with other treatments, such as acupuncture, shiatsu and reflexology, reiki is a holistic treatment based on the idea of balance and “qi” (say “chee”) — the life force that needs to flow freely through us if we are to be physically, emotionally and spiritually healthy. Reiki aims to renew and refresh your energy flow, encouraging healing and increasing your sense of well-being. However, reiki is far less physical than similar treatments, and depends on the relationship formed between the giver and the receiver: the practitioner channels their own reiki into your body, by laying their hands on you.

What is reiki good for?

Reiki affects each person differently. Reiki works on the basis that many physical and emotional problems are related and so these problems must be treated simultaneously. Reiki is generally recognised as being relaxing and good at releasing stress, and can help with physical problems, too; people who have reiki say that it helps relieve muscular aches and pains. Reiki is also thought to boost the immune system, and relieve even chronic, long-term conditions, as it works with the body to help it heal itself. It is also believed to rebalance your energy, and your organs, and to help your body rebuild tissue, which means it can help with pain relief and first aid. Reiki is now available on the NHS and has been used successfully with children undergoing cancer treatments as well as adults to relieve stress and depression, and promote healing.