How Reiki Can Support You During and After Treatment
Reiki is often used as a supportive therapy to help manage the emotional and physical stress associated with a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Support Potential Benefits Reported by Patients and Studies
Emotional & Mental Well-being
Anxiety & Stress-Helps induce a deep state of relaxation which can significantly reduce anxiety and stress, especially during critical phases like before a biopsy or during chemotherapy infusions.
Mood-May help improve mood and alleviate feelings of depression related to the illness, contributing to a better quality of life and outlook.
Coping-Can help a person cope with difficult emotions and the overall overwhelming experience of cancer treatment.
Physical Symptoms & Side EffectsPain-Has been shown in some small studies to help reduce the perception of pain, including pain after surgery.
Fatigue-May help to reduce cancer-related fatigue, which is a common and debilitating side effect of treatment.
Nausea-A few studies suggest it may help ease nausea associated with chemotherapy.
Sleep-The deep relaxation induced by Reiki can lead to improved quality of sleep.
Overall Well-beingRest & Recovery-Facilitates a meditative and relaxed state, which can be difficult to achieve when dealing with anxiety and pain, allowing the body and mind time to replenish.
Sense of Peace-Many people report an improved sense of peace, comfort, and general well-being during and after sessions.
When People Use Reiki in Their Cancer Journey
People often incorporate Reiki at various points throughout their experience:
After Diagnosis: To manage the initial shock, anxiety, and stress of the diagnosis.
Before Surgery: To reduce pre-surgery anxiety.
During Treatment (Chemotherapy/Radiation): To help manage side effects like fatigue, pain, anxiety, and nausea.
After Treatment: For emotional and physical recovery, helping to restore overall well-being and cope with survivorship issues.
In Palliative Care: To help impart a sense of peace for the patient and their family.
💡 Things to Consider
Complementary vs. Alternative: Reiki is considered a complementary therapy, meaning it is used alongside conventional medical care, not as a replacement for it.
Safety: Reiki is generally considered safe and non-invasive, as it involves light or no touch and does not interfere with medical treatments.
Availability: Many cancer support centers and hospital integrative care programs now offer Reiki sessions to patients and caregivers.
