Reiki and the Cancer Patient

What is it?

Reiki is the oldest and best established of the energy therapies, which also include therapeutic touch and the laying on of hands. These healing modalities are based on the belief that there are energy forces in and around the body that can be manipulated to reduce symptoms and promote well-being.

How is it Done?

Reiki is done by a trained practitioner who serves as a "channel" for universal healing energy and facilitates its flow. In a Reiki session, the practitioner finds blockages in the patient's energy field by passing his or her hands along or slightly above the body in a specific pattern. The patient can choose to be fully clothed or partially draped. The practitioner mobilizes the body's energy field by using a long stroking action, either touching the patient or with hands hovering over their body. The patient will probably experience a feeling of relaxation, even if their body is not actually touched. At the end of the session, the practitioner may reassess the patient's energy field by again passing his or her hands along their body.

Does it Work?

There is anecdotal evidence showing that Reiki may help reduce pain when practiced as complement to the pain-relieving drugs known as opioids. However, there is little scientific evidence that Reiki changes clinical outcomes, that is, there is no proof it has any effect on whether a person's disease actually heals. There are also claims that energy healing methods help reduce fatigue and anxiety in patients receiving chemotherapy, but there is no scientific proof to support this. It should also be noted that there is no scientific evidence that demonstrates how or why Reiki and other kinds of therapeutic touch or energy healing might work.

Is it Safe?

For most people, the use of Reiki is safe. It is important to inform the practitioner if you feel uncomfortable at any time during treatment. A few people may experience anxiety and need to stop the treatment session. Some patients have reported feelings of nausea, dizziness, restlessness, and irritability following therapeutic touch sessions.

Practitioner Qualifications

There are three levels of Reiki certification. Students reach Level 3, the highest level, through years of close training with a Reiki Master. The International Association of Reiki Professionals keeps a membership roster of practitioners who have agreed to uphold a code of ethics developed by the group.

Cost in Time and Money

A Reiki treatment generally takes between 30 and 90 minutes and costs from $30 to $75 per hour. This treatment is not covered by insurance.