The road to a healthy mind and body often involves experimenting with different diets, exercises and relaxation techniques to find what works best for you. In fact, one of our core concepts at Integrative Nutrition is bio-individuality, meaning there’s no one-size-fits-all diet. 

Reiki is one such example of a de-stressing method that may or may not speak to you. Reiki is based on the belief that we are all made of energy, and the technique involves a therapist placing his or her hands on or above the patient’s body to channel this energy. This healing method is designed to eradicate energy blockages and improve mental, spiritual and physical health in the process. 

Some believe this “balancing of the chakras” (read more about those here) from Reiki has little merit, and medical studies on the practice are limited. But Reiki can be an interesting avenue for practicing mindfulness and relaxation, if nothing else. Here are some ways Reiki proponents say the practice can help you heal:

Alleviates stress
Relaxation is among the biggest benefits of Reiki. After a session, you may feel as if you’ve just meditated or had a massage. Relaxation can have a profound effect on the mind and body, offering a quiet space to heal. Reiki also provides an opportunity for mindfulness, or awareness of the present moment.

Eases anxiety and depression
According to the International Association of Reiki Professionals, Reiki promotes a mental and physical balance that can alter your mood and help with guilty or sad feelings. Again, this could be due to its relaxing powers.

Helps with pain
Reiki has been shown to help people suffering from a variety of painful conditions—specifically, it may lessen the frequency and severity of migraines. And as you would expect, this pain reduction can improve migraine sufferers’ moods.

Speeds up recovery
According to Manitou Wellness Center, Reiki has been used to speed up recovery from long-term illness and surgery. In a small study, Reiki helped heart surgery patients with postoperative depression, Psych Central reports. In another study, Reiki helped cancer patients with pain relief, anxiety and depression, and sleep quality.

Although Reiki research is still limited, the consensus seems to be that no negative health effects have come from it. And you may be seeing more of it in health care facilities—some U.S. hospitals have even started offering it to patients!

What do you think about Reiki - will you try it? Share with us below!