Reiki for cancer management may seem unlikely, but according to studies, it can be very effective. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer accounts for about one in six deaths globally.
Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery can be invasive and can have adverse side effects. This is where complementary therapies like Reiki come in, providing holistic support to people living with cancer. Explore the benefits of Reiki for cancer management, drawing from a study on the effect of Reiki therapy on the quality of life of patients with blood cancer.
Understanding Reiki
Reiki is a complementary therapy that involves the transfer of energy from the practitioner to the client through touch or close proximity. The word Reiki is of Japanese origin, meaning “universal life energy.”
Reiki is based on the principle that the human body has an innate ability to heal itself when in a state of balance and harmony. However, when this balance is disrupted, illness and pain can occur. Reiki practitioners work on the principle that by channeling energy into the body, they can help restore balance and promote healing.
The Study
In a study conducted by Jaime Fonseca and Zilda Alarcão, the effect of Reiki therapy on the quality of life of 58 blood cancer patients was evaluated. The patients were allocated to either a true Reiki or sham Reiki group using computer randomization. Both groups received Reiki treatment twice a week for four weeks, with each session lasting 60 minutes.
The results indicated that the true Reiki group showed significantly more improvements in the general, physical, environmental, and social dimensions of the tests. Younger (under 52) unmarried males with a higher level of education that received true Reiki therapy reported greater life satisfaction than those who received sham Reiki therapy.
Benefits of Reiki for Cancer Management
Reiki can provide several benefits for people living with cancer.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Cancer diagnosis and treatment can be stressful and anxiety-inducing. Reiki promotes relaxation, helps reduce the stress response, and calms the mind. In this way, it can help patients feel more grounded and centered, making it easier to cope with cancer treatment.
Helps Manage Pain
Cancer treatment can cause pain, making it difficult for patients to manage daily activities. Reiki promotes relaxation, reduces muscle tension, and can help alleviate pain. Studies show that it can be effective in reducing pain, including pain related to cancer treatment.
Boosts Immune System
Cancer and cancer treatments can compromise the immune system, leaving patients at risk of infections and other health complications. Reiki has been shown to boost the immune system, promoting overall health and well-being.
Improves Sleep Quality
Cancer and cancer treatment can interfere with sleep, leading to fatigue and reduced cognitive function. Reiki promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and helps improve sleep quality, allowing patients to feel more rested and better able to cope with their treatments.
Enhances Quality of Life
Cancer can have an impact on every aspect of a patient’s life. Reiki can help improve quality of life by reducing stress, managing pain, improving sleep, and promoting a sense of well-being. The results from the study on the effect of Reiki therapy on the quality of life of patients with blood cancer support the use of Reiki as a complementary therapy for cancer patients.
The Role of Reiki in Cancer Management
Reiki is a complementary therapy, meaning it can be used alongside conventional cancer treatments. It can help promote relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, alleviate pain, boost the immune system, and improve sleep quality for cancer patients. This therapy provides a holistic approach to cancer management, addressing not just the physical but also the mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of the patient’s well-being.
Cancer can be a challenging illness to manage, bringing pain, stress, and anxiety to patients’ lives. Reiki can help manage these aspects of disease management, providing a holistic approach to support the patient’s overall well-being.
The study discussed here supports the use of Reiki as a complementary therapy in cancer management. As with any complementary therapy, patients should consult with their healthcare provider before incorporating Reiki into their treatment plan. Reiki practitioners should also have proper training and credentials to provide safe and effective therapy to their patients.