Reiki Energy Healing

By Anna Creed, Massage Therapist

What is Reiki?

Did you know we offer Reiki as part of our massage therapy offerings here at Southwest Health? When I tell people this, many haven’t heard of it, or they have heard of it but have no idea what it is. Because I have been certified as a Reiki Practitioner, I enjoy sharing what I have learned.

Reiki is an energy healing technique where I can channel energy into the patient by using touch. Reiki is used to activate the natural healing process to restore physical and emotional well-being. This type of energy healing targets the energy fields around the body. Why is this helpful? Energy can lay stagnant in the body where there was a physical injury or even emotional pain. Improving the flow of energy around the body can help you relax, reduce pain, and speed healing.

 What are some of the benefits of Reiki?

*Induces deep relaxation

*Relieves headaches

*Relieves physical pain

*Helps with anxiety

*Helps with fatigue and insomnia

*Improves mood

* Releases emotional stress

*Relieves stress

*Relieves tension

*Aligns, clears, and balances chakra centres

*Promotes relaxation and balance

What happens during Reiki? 

So now that we’ve discuss the benefits, I want to give you an idea about what you can expect if you make an appointment with me for Reiki. So, what happens in a session?

First, I will ask you to lie down on a massage table. The lights are dimmed and soft music is played to create a relaxing environment. During a session, I will place my hands either directly on you or just above you and move my hands around to bring about healing.

Reiki practitioners use a technique called palm healing or hands-on healing through which a “universal energy” is transferred through the palms of the practitioner to the patient in order to encourage emotional or physical healing. You may experience sensations in the body such as heat or tingling. Some people report seeing visualizations such as colors or pictures, or having memories appear. Your experiences may become deeper the more you continue with Reiki.

Reiki Techniques 

There are a variety of Reiki techniques. I choose which technique to use based on where there is an energy block in the body, what type of energy we are addressing, and what the patient would like. Below are a few techniques:

*Centering

* Grounding

*Clearing

*Beaming

*Infusing

*Smoothing or Raking the Aura

*Chakra balancing

Reiki has many positive benefits and has the potential to improve your overall well-being. Always speak to your doctor if you plan to use Reiki to help with any medical condition. Remember that Reiki is a complementary therapy and should be used alongside a conventional treatment plan. You may also use it alongside other complementary treatments such as acupuncture, massage, or counseling.

If you would like to book an appointment for Reiki or a massage, call the Orthopedic Institute at Southwest Health 608.342.4748.