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Reiki and Addiction Recovery

Written on September 13, 2023
Reiki and Addiction Recovery

Reiki is a form of alternative medicine that involves the use of energy healing, and may be helpful in the recovery process from addiction, as it can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions that can contribute to substance abuse and dependence.

 

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a form of alternative medicine that involves the use of energy healing techniques to promote balance and wellness in the body, mind, and spirit. It is based on the idea that a therapist can channel energy into a person by placing their hands on or near them in order to activate the natural healing processes of the patient’s body and restore physical and emotional well-being.

Reiki practitioners use their hands to channel energy into the patient’s body in order to restore balance and promote healing. The therapist may use a variety of hand positions, such as placing their hands on the patient’s head, shoulders, and feet, or they may hold their hands just above the patient’s body without touching it.

Reiki is typically performed with the patient lying down and fully clothed, and the therapist may also use touch or non-touch techniques. Reiki is believed to be a safe and gentle form of therapy that can be used to treat a wide range of physical and emotional conditions.

 

What are Some of the Ways Reiki can Help with Mental Health Issues?

There is some evidence to suggest that Reiki may be helpful in managing certain mental health conditions, such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Some people also report that Reiki can help to reduce feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and irritability.

Reiki is believed to work by promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which can in turn help to improve mood and emotional well-being. Reiki may also help to improve sleep, which is important for maintaining good mental health. In addition, Reiki may help to increase feelings of calmness and inner peace, which can be beneficial for people who are struggling with difficult emotions or life challenges. However, it is important to note that Reiki should not be used as a substitute for evidence-based therapies such as counseling and medication for the treatment of mental health conditions.

 

Is Reiki Safe?

Reiki is generally considered to be a safe form of therapy with few if any side effects. Reiki practitioners are trained to use gentle touch and non-touch techniques, and the therapy is typically performed with the patient fully clothed and lying down. Some people may feel a sense of relaxation or warmth during or after a Reiki session, and some may experience a range of emotional responses. However, serious side effects are rare and generally not associated with Reiki.

That being said, it is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new therapy or treatment. If you are considering trying Reiki, it is important to choose a practitioner who is trained and experienced in the therapy. You should also inform your healthcare provider about any Reiki sessions you are planning to attend, as they may have recommendations or concerns based on your overall health and medical history.

 

Reiki as Part of Holistic Addiction Recovery

Reiki can be a helpful complementary therapy to use alongside traditional addiction treatment, but it should not be used as a substitute for evidence-based therapies such as counseling. Therapy has been proven to be effective in helping people recover from addiction, and should be the foundation of your recovery plan.

If you are interested in using Reiki as a complementary therapy during your recovery from addiction, it is important to work with a trained and experienced Reiki practitioner. You should also discuss your plan with your healthcare provider and addiction treatment team to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you.

In addition to Reiki, there are many other complementary therapies that may be helpful in the recovery process, such as meditation, yoga, acupuncture, and massage therapy. It is important to find a combination of therapies that work for you and that support your overall recovery goals.

If you are interested in learning more about our holistic approach to addiction recovery, call us for a no-cost consultation.