Although Reiki is still largely scientifically unknown territory, there have been studies conducted that clinically prove that the energy does have a calming and therapeutic effect, even if the mechanism behind Reiki is yet to be scientifically understood. Baldwin and Wagers and Schartz conducted a study on rats showing Reiki significantly lowers heart rate in stressed and unstressed rats, which some of were exposed to loud noises. A sham group was also included, which had no effect on heart-rate (2008). Reiki is also being embraced by cancer support services all over the world. Velde and Van discuss the anecdotal reports, and beginning research that supports the use of Reiki in providing relief for mental, physical and emotional effects of cancer on patients. People to experience Reiki have felt its energizing effects, as well as the balance it brings to their mental and emotional issues. The most commonly reported benefit of Reiki is reduced stress, which has a positive impact on the well-being of cancer patients (2012). An article which discusses the scientific evidence recorded for the effectiveness of Reiki treatments by Baldwin, presents evidence of Reiki increasing activity of vagal nerves in twelve patients recovering from acute coronary syndrome, a disease involving blockages of the arteries. This indicates a relaxation affect which changed heart rate variability. Ultimately, Reiki had a similar effect to the medication taken by patients who have suffered from this type of heart disease (2011). The effects of Reiki can also be seen visually with high frequency photography. This effect was first shown by two Russian scientists who succeeded in photographing the microstructural bioenergetics radiation of the human aura. The photo showed the energetic field of a hand before and after a Reiki treatment, carried out for only a few seconds, the field became bigger and brighter in the second photo (Muller 1995, p151). If stress and pain has been proven to increase anxiety, leading to depression in patients, it can be assumed that Reiki is also effective for treating depression and anxiety, which has been shown to be true. In an experiment including 12 men and 18 women, the patients who received Reiki compared to sham Reiki demonstrated a significant reduction in pain, depression and anxiety experienced in chronically ill patients suffering with different medical conditions. Sessions were conducted twice a week for five weeks and the benefits were still enjoyed three months after completion of Reiki treatments (Baldwin, 2011). Leo also had similar evidence to present in regards to depressed patients, showing evidence that Reiki shifted depressed patients to get out of bed and exercise, which is a major chemistry-shifter (2011). Reiki is just beginning to be understood and clinically proven. The centre for Reiki Research upholds excellent standards for the new evidence that emerges in support of the therapeutic effect of Reiki healings. There is no doubt that Reiki is a holistic and gentle way of healing, which encourages the body’s energetic system to repair itself without toxic side effects. Patients who experience Reiki understand the calming affect it can have on body, mind, spirit, even if it is yet to be fully understood by scientists and society. The principles adopted by Reiki practitioners assures that they first heal themselves, which in turn creates a peaceful and positive energetic field around them, and everyone they come in contact with.
Posted on: Thu, 13 Mar 2014 11:51:22 +0000
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