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Reiki Healing
Energy-Based
Clinical trials specifically in cancer patientsReiki is a Japanese energy healing practice developed by Mikao Usui in the early 20th century. The word 'Reiki' combines the Japanese words 'rei' (universal) and 'ki' (life energy). Practitioners place their hands lightly on or just above the body, with the intention of channelling healing energy to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and support the body's natural healing processes. In oncology settings, Reiki is among the most widely offered complementary therapies used at major cancer centres including Memorial Sloan Kettering, MD Anderson, and the Cleveland Clinic. Clinical studies in cancer patients show consistent improvements in anxiety, pain perception, fatigue, and overall wellbeing, though the precise mechanism remains under scientific investigation. It is non-invasive, requires no undressing, and can be adapted for patients with limited mobility or those receiving treatment.
Conditions Addressed
How It Works
The proposed mechanism involves influencing the body's bioelectric field ('ki' or 'qi') to restore energetic balance, reduce stress hormones, and activate the parasympathetic nervous system. From a conventional science perspective, the relaxation response triggered during Reiki is well-documented: it lowers cortisol, reduces heart rate and blood pressure, decreases sympathetic nervous system activity, and promotes endorphin release all of which indirectly support pain relief, reduced anxiety, and improved sleep. Some researchers propose that the therapeutic benefit arises from the practitionerpatient interaction, intentional touch, and structured attention similar in mechanism to other relaxation-based therapies.
What a Session Looks Like
Typically 4590 minutes per session, individual (1:1 practitioner and patient). Patients remain fully clothed, lying comfortably on a treatment table or bed. Practitioners work through 1215 hand positions across the body. Sessions are conducted in person; distance Reiki (remote healing) is also practised within the Reiki tradition. Often offered weekly or bi-weekly during active treatment, monthly during survivorship. Many cancer centres offer Reiki free or at subsidised cost as part of integrative medicine programmes.
Cautions & Considerations
- Not a substitute for conventional cancer treatment should be used as a complement, not a replacement
- Ensure practitioner is experienced in working with cancer patients some positions may need modification near radiation sites, port sites, or areas of lymphoedema
- Avoid firm pressure near surgical scars, active wounds, infection sites, or bone metastases
- Distance Reiki is unverifiable in-person sessions at accredited integrative medicine centres are preferable
- Minimal risk profile no documented serious adverse events in the cancer literature
- Inform your oncology team that you are using Reiki as part of your integrative care plan
- Evidence level is preliminary benefits are real but mechanism is not scientifically established