Reiki: The gentle healing art
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a Japanese word meaning universal life energy. It is a gentle method of hands-on healing that taps into the energy referred to as ki in Japan, chi in China, and prana in India. The practice of Reiki is based on the teaching of Mikao Usui, who practiced and taught healing techniques in early 20th century Japan.
Reiki is not massage, hypnosis or a tool for diagnosing illness. Reiki is a technique that address both chronic and acute conditions, gently and powerfully promoting balance among all the body’s systems and the regenerative processes of body and mind.
Though Reiki techniques appear simple, the effects can feel profound. Most people experience deep relaxation. You may also feel tingling, pulsing, a feeling of warmth and comfort, or you may fall asleep.
Results can be subtle. Some recipients say they feel little during the session, but afterwards enjoy a sense of calm and well-being, and a deep, restful sleep. It is possible you could experience powerful sensations or emotions during or after a session.
Studies of Reiki show significant reduction of pain, including cancer pain, following treatment. Patients also report increased feelings of relaxation and a sense of well-being. One study cited improvement in immune and nervous system function and increased mobility in patients with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, lupus and fibromyalgia. As Portsmouth Regional Hospital in New Hampshire, surgical patients decreased their use of pain medications, stayed for shorter periods, and reported increases satisfaction with pre- and postsurgical Reiki sessions.
Used by a rapidly growing number of hospitals all over the world, Reiki complements medical treatment, psychological counseling and massage therapy. Reiki is gentle enough to offer support and reduce the discomforts of pregnant women and can help ease the pain of childbirth. Hospitals such as the Tucson Medical Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Pennsylvania’s St. Mary Medical Center have Reiki practitioners available to a range of patients, including those with cancer or recovering from surgery. Reiki is especially appreciated in hospice care due to its ability to alleviate pain and anxiety for both patient and family members.
Reiki is not only healthful, but pleasurable. One of its greatest benefits may be the opportunity to let go and enjoy the experience of being nurtured and cared for.
Submitted by Jody Guy-Krulc, Reiki Master, 218-248-0996, relaxwithreikimn@gmail.com.
Relax with Reiki Open House
Relax with Reiki will hold an Open House on Saturday, May 8, from 11 a.m. to p.m. at Unity Plaza, 8355 Unity Drive, in Virginia (east of the YMCA).
Visitors may try five minutes of Reiki for free, get a paraffin hand dip, register for door prizes, and share in goodies, coffee and Arnold Palmer.
Jody Guy-Krulc, Reiki Master/Teacher is the hostess.
About Jody
Jody completed her Reiki Level 1 training with Bonnie Schandorf and Jackie Anderson in 2008. Her Reiki Master training was with Mr. Vinnie Baum in Carson City, NV. Baum is a professional swim coach, massage therapist and trainer, Qi Gong instructor and a Karuna Reiki Master. Baum trained with William Lee Rand, the most prominent Reiki instructor in the U.S. and internationally.
Jody recently opened her Reiki practice, Relax with Reiki, in Virginia. She also teaches Reiki Classes for people wanting to learn Reiki to treat themselves, friends, family and their pets.
