Reiki, a Japanese energy healing technique for stress reduction and relaxation, is increasingly recognized for its potential to enhance overall well-being and compliment medical therapies. The word “Reiki” originated from two Japanese words, “Rei” and “Ki”’ which translate to” universal life force energy.” The belief is that universal life force energy (Reiki) flows through all living things.
When our life force energy is balanced, we feel healthy and well. When it is depleted or blocked, we might experience illness or stress. During a session, a practitioner gently places their hands directly on or just above the client’s body. The practitioner acts as a vessel for reiki (universal life force energy), as it flows through their hands to the client.
Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive practice and it does not involve any physical manipulation or external substances or tools. There have been no reported negative effects from reiki. While it is not a substitute for traditional medical treatment, reiki can be a valuable complement to treating the whole person, especially during times of stress, distress or anxiety.
Most clients report feelings of deep relaxation, with sensations ranging from coolness, warmth, magnetic pulsing, or a meditative state. Some clients say it helps relieve emotional symptoms along with reducing pain and tension and improving sleep.
Integrative medical wellness programs are progressively committed to embracing innovative and patient-focused therapies, including reiki. While more research is necessary to quantify its effects, the current evidence suggests that reiki has a valuable role to play in the holistic care of patients. At our wellness center, we include reiki group sessions as part of our Cancer Wellness Program for new cancer survivors and highly encourage private reiki sessions for those with upcoming medical interventions or chronic stress and anxiety to act as a tool in becoming more resilient with these stressful triggers. Some client feedback after experiencing reiki include:
“I went away feeling very light, airy and energetic. After the session I felt like I was wrapped in a warm blanket and I slept better that night than I had in a long time.”
“After experiencing Brandi’s reiki class I felt like I had found a missing link in my self-care for my anxiety.”
“I have some anxieties about physical touch therapy like massage so reiki allows me to fully relax and reach a meditative state.”
Meet Our Reiki Master: Brandi Holloway, Our Reiki Master, MSN, RN, CNL, CHPN, Reiki Master/ Teacher
Brandi is a Reiki/ Master Teacher trained in the Usui Shiki Ryoho tradition. She has been practicing and teaching reiki for almost 30 years. Brandi offers private reiki healing sessions and teaches all three levels of reiki workshops at the St Jude Wellness Center. She also participates in the Integrative Cancer Wellness Program. Brandi is a registered nurse and manages Providence St Joseph of Orange’s Palliative Care Program. She incorporates reiki into her professional and personal practice and is passionate about offering integrative therapies as part of a holistic approach to healthcare.
If you are ready to experience reiki, book a private session with our Reiki Master Brandi or enroll in one of her signature group workshops:
Click here for private sessions
Click here for our workshop schedule
Watch this short clip to see what Reiki looks like!
