Energy healing has been used for centuries in various forms. Advocates say it works with the energy fields around the body.
Some controversy surrounds Reiki, because it is hard to prove its effectiveness through scientific means. However, many people who receive Reiki say it works, and its popularity is increasing. A Google search for the term currently returns no less than 68,900,000 results.
A 2007 survey shows that, in the United States (U.S.), 1.2 million adults tried Reiki or a similar therapy at least once in the previous year. Over 60 hospitals are believed to offer Reiki services to patients.
Fast facts on Reiki
- Reiki is a form of energy therapy.
- Despite skepticism in some circles, it is growing in popularity.
- It involves the transfer of energy by laying on hands.
- Reiki’s advocates say it can treat many conditions and emotional states.
- Small studies show that Reiki can slightly reduce pain, but no studies have shown that it is effective in treating any diseases.
- Some hospitals in America and Europe offer Reiki, but insurance rarely covers it.
Energy healing targets the energy fields around the body.
According to practitioners, energy can stagnate in the body where there has been physical injury or possibly emotional pain. In time, these energy blocks can cause illness.
Energy medicine aims to help the flow of energy and remove blocks in a similar way to acupuncture or acupressure. Improving the flow of energy around the body, say practitioners, can enable relaxation, reduce pain, speed healing, and reduce other symptoms of illness.