Reiki and cancer: what studies have shown
Introduction
Reiki is a form of energy therapy that involves the use of hands-on or hands-off manipulation of energy fields around a person's body. It is believed that this therapy can help promote healing and relaxation. Reiki is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatment, including cancer treatment. However, there is still some debate regarding the effectiveness of Reiki as a form of cancer treatment. In this article, we will explore what studies have shown about the use of Reiki in cancer care.
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a form of energy therapy that originated in Japan in the early 20th century. It involves the use of energy fields to promote healing and relaxation. The word Reiki is derived from two Japanese words: Rei, which means "universal life," and Ki, which means "energy."
Reiki is typically performed by a practitioner who uses their hands to manipulate the energy fields around the person's body. The practitioner may place their hands directly on the person's body, or they may hold their hands a few inches above the body. It is believed that this energy therapy can help to promote healing, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall wellbeing.
Reiki in Cancer Care
Reiki is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. It is believed that Reiki can help to alleviate the side effects of cancer treatment, including fatigue, nausea, and pain.
While some cancer patients report feeling more relaxed and less anxious after Reiki therapy, there is still limited scientific evidence to support the use of Reiki as a cancer treatment. Many of the studies on Reiki and cancer are small and have methodological limitations, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about the effectiveness of Reiki.
Studies on Reiki and Cancer
Study 1
In a 2015 study published in the Journal of Holistic Nursing, researchers looked at the effect of Reiki on the quality of life of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The study included 50 participants, and the results showed that Reiki therapy was associated with a significant improvement in the quality of life of the participants.
Study 2
A 2013 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine looked at the effect of Reiki on pain and anxiety in cancer patients. The study included 60 participants and found that Reiki therapy was associated with a significant reduction in both pain and anxiety.
Study 3
In a 2014 study published in the Journal of Cancer Education, researchers looked at the effect of Reiki on stress in cancer caregivers. The study included 20 participants, and the results showed that Reiki therapy was associated with a significant reduction in stress levels among the participants.
Conclusion
While there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of Reiki as a cancer treatment, many cancer patients report feeling more relaxed and less anxious after Reiki therapy. Reiki is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional cancer treatment and may help to alleviate the side effects of cancer treatment. More research is needed to determine the effectiveness of Reiki as a cancer treatment, but the studies that have been conducted so far show promising results.