The Cleveland Clinic defines Reiki as “an energy healing technique that promotes relaxation, reduces stress and anxiety through gentle touch.”
Dr. Mikao Usui developed Reiki in the early 1900s and opened his first Reiki clinic and school in Tokyo in 1922. The name Reiki derives from two Japanese words: “rei” meaning “universal,” and “ki,” which refers to the vital life force energy that flows through all living things. It is an alternative, holistic therapeutic treatment modality that was founded on the revelation and understanding of the body’s energy system. Holistic treatments are non-medical recovery methods used to complement traditional treatment practices that can be used to help assist in the potential healing of people suffering from pain, illness, disease, and more. Live Science explains that Reiki practitioners use a technique called palm healing or hands-on healing through which a “universal energy” is said to be transferred through the palms of the practitioner to the patient to facilitate emotional and/ or physical healing.
How It Can Help
Addiction, also known as substance use disorder, is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic, relapsing brain disorder. It is characterized by compulsively engaging in rewarding stimuli without regard for consequence. There are a variety of treatment options available to those struggling with substance abuse and/ or addiction. However, the path of recovery from substance abuse and/ or addiction will not be the same for every person. There are many ways Reiki can help addiction. The Center for Spirituality & Healing at the University of Minnesota evaluated overlapping data from scientifically valid studies on Reiki that found it “to reduce anxiety and pain, and suggest its usefulness to induce relaxation, improve fatigue and depressive symptoms, and strengthen overall wellbeing.” One research study found that Reiki was effective in lowering heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) asserts that those who practice Reiki hold a fundamental belief that one’s own healing response can be awakened, and through channeling universal energy the body’s innate or natural healing abilities are activated.
Further Information and Support
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all-consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. At Upwell Advisors, we offer unique, customized concierge therapeutic services to provide our clients with unparalleled support throughout every step of the recovery process.
Feel free to reach to contact us anytime via email at [email protected] We look forward to supporting you on your journey.
