Reiki: Alternative vs. Western Medicine

Reiki is considered an “alternative” treatment modality, yet complementary in nature.  Human consciousness is constantly changing, and energy medicine, such as Reiki, has been a catalyst in allowing Eastern treatments to penetrate Western medicine.  Reiki has been understood for a very long time; it was rediscovered in the late 1800s by Mikao Usui (Novoa & Cian, 2014).  Reiki allows a powerful flow of specific energy to pass through the healer’s hands while they are placed to benefit the “aura” and chakras (Mercier, 2000).  Reiki is a modality that promotes healing by raising the body's vibrations, keeping energy flowing through the body by opening blockages in one's chakras (i.e., energy centers).  By keeping increasing vibrations and keeping chakras open and balanced, the body (physically, emotionally, and spiritually) remains healthier (Novoa & Cain, 2014). 

Chakras are focused energetic life-forces that exist outside our auric field as swirling masses of color that penetrate and interact with our physical body, particularly the endocrine system, central nervous system, and spine (Mercier, 2000).  There are seven main chakras (or body points) that begin at the base of the spine, i.e., root or base chakra, sacral chakra, solar plexus chakra, heart chakra, throat chakra, brow chakra (or the “third eye”), and crown chakra.  The energy that runs through the chakras remains constant, although it increases or decreases with your actions, thoughts, and harmony.  Disharmony, emotional upset, or intense feelings all register in your force field, prompting a spiritual response.  

With the paradigm shift in Western culture, we are almost forced to consider the land of humanism, self-awareness, and non-heuristic endeavors (Hartelius, Caplan & Rardin, 2007).  Self-awareness, in this case, goes from traditional/experiential to contemporary/holistic.  McManus (2017) states that there is strong support for Reiki being more effective than a placebo.  Though there are not many studies, of the suitable studies presented, only one (out of 13) provided evidence for not providing benefit (McManus, 2017).  Reiki is a safe and gentle therapy that has proven effects to heal the body and mind.  Despite the controversy, it is a noninvasive method that can be used for all conditions (including maintenance or spiritual healing).  It is unfortunate that there are so few studies on the topic, given the clear efficacy and need.

It is clear that more research is needed for “acceptance” of this method to be established.  All too often, there is a lack of willingness to “go beyond” traditional medicine because it has been so entrenched in our minds (from birth).  In addition, although payment methods such as cafeteria plans or HSAs may cover complementary medicine (such as Reiki), insurance companies will not cover this treatment despite its usefulness (McManus, 2017).

Hartelius, G., Caplan, M., & Rardin, M. A. (2007). Transpersonal psychology: Defining the past, diving the future. The Humanistic Psychologist, 35(2), 135-160. doi: 10.1080/08873260701274017

McManus, D. E. (2017). Reiki is better than placebo and has broad potential as a complementary health therapy. Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, 22(4), 1051-1057.

Mercier, P. (2000). Chakras: Balance your body’s energy for health and harmony. Sterling Publishing Company.

Mojay, G. (1997). Aromatherapy for healing the spirit: Restoring emotional and mental balance with essential oils. Healing Arts Press.

Novoa, M. P., & Cain, D. S. (2014). The effects of Reiki treatment on mental health professionals at risk for secondary traumatic stress. Best Practices in Mental Health, 10(1), 29-46.