Reiki
We offer free reiki treatments to our veterans and their family members.
Not sure if reiki could help you? Find out more about the therapy below!
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a type of energy healing which is an alternative medicine which emerged in the early 20th century. Originating in Japan, the word reiki means "universal energy".
During a Reiki session, practitioners use a technique called "palm healing" or "hands-on healing" this is where a "universal energy" is transferred through the palms of the Reiki master to the patient to encourage physical and emotional healing.
Reiki is a safe and natural method of spiritual healing and self-improvement that anyone andeveryone can use.
What happens during a Reiki session?
Reiki treatments are based on the idea that as humans, we all have an unseen “life force energy” that flows through our bodies that cause us to be alive, this is according the International Center for Reiki Training.
Reiki treatments will usually take place in a peaceful and private setting, although this does not have to always be the case.
Reiki works by a practitioner gently moves their hands just above or touching the client’s clothed body, it is aimed at reducing stress and promoting healing by encouraging a healthy flow of energy through the body.
The therapist places their hands lightly on or over areas of the client’s head, limbs, and torso and in some cases above wounds. They will usually keep their hands in these positions for between three and 10 minutes.
The therapist may tell of a warm or tingling feelings in their hands, which is said to be energy flowing between themselves and the client. They will hold each position until they feel that the energy has stopped flowing and then move onto the next.
How does Reiki work?
The truth is, nobody really knows how Reiki works, there is not enough definitive evidence to prove how the healing process works.
There are however, theories which aim to provide some level of explanation.
A popular theory involves a phenomenon known as the “biofield.” This is an electromagnetic field that fills and surrounds every living being. In humans, this field extends 15 feet or more from the body, according to Ann L. Baldwin, PhD.
The heart produces an electrical field, which is measured through an ECG, to regulate heartbeats. The brain also produces an electrical field, at a lower level than the heart. All of the cells in the body produce positive and negative electrical charges, which create magnetic fields.
The interaction between two human magnetic fields could explain the effects of touch therapies such as Reiki. It is beleived that the biofield is the energetic force that guides bodily functions, and that Reiki energy influences the biofield. "The biofield is thought to cause dynamic changes in its vibrational qualities that alter physiological and psychological functions in living beings,” Dr. Baldwin claims.
Why do we offer Reiki and could it help you?
According to Reiki master Jennifer R., "Reiki benefits the military population and people that have PTSD because it elicits what we call the relaxation response. People that have experienced trauma and/or are anxious have difficulty reaching this healing state on their own. The relaxation response is a state of peace that can allow the body/mind to let go and reset itself and healing can begin".
Reiki is gaining credibility as a treatment for people with PTSD due to it's holistic approach, as it 'treats the patient not the wound and each persons response to treatment is individual to them. This is put best by Reiki master and veteran Tabitha H., "The relaxing state that people are in when they have a Reiki session is very conducive to healing. Reiki has been likened to meditation in its effects, but not everyone meditates the same. A person who is receiving Reiki will respond to the treatment in the way that is appropriate for them at that time. Also, as with meditation, the effects last beyond the time of the session".
You can find out more here.
If you think Reiki could benefit you or someone you know, please contact Angie at Angie@eastdurhamveterans.co.uk to book your space or for more information.