Reiki is the art of hands on healing. Reiki has been used for centuries in eastern cultures, and more recently in western cultures as a tool to facilitate a state of health and wellbeing. The benefits of modalities like Reiki and techniques like meditation are now becoming well documented, with many health professionals recommending these to assist in the management of stress.
What is stress?
Stress is caused by a number of factors. Usually personal relationship difficulties, financial hardship, and over-work can be main contributors.
The physical end result is indicated by tiredness, tense muscles, low resistance to flu's and colds, lack of sex drive and sleeplessness, over/under eating and over reacting to emotional stimuli. Stress is now considered as being a major contributor to health problems, such as heart disease.
Often we are stressed and don't realise it. All we know is that we are overwhelmed and unable to perform at our usual level, we seem to be busier and busier, yet achieving less. We have tendency during stressful times to think that the worst will happen - like not meeting that deadline, which will add to the burden of stresses that seem to be affecting us.
Stress affects not only the experiencer, but also those who are in a close relationship with the stressed person. This can and often does lead to a negative downward spiral, very difficult to get out of without professional assistance.
Good Stress
Good stress is stimulating and life creating. We need positive stimulation to keep us going, so that we may enjoy and participate fully in life- this could be a new relationship, learning, child rearing, a new home or new job.
Being unstimulated is as stressful as being overworked, or going through a traumatic period. Taking action is just as important here, as relaxing and taking time for yourself is important if you are overworked. Often action is difficult with this type of stress, and again we may need assistance to kick-start ourselves.
The message? Balance!
A holistic approach to living is what is required in all our lives. Positive food habits, exercise, mental stimulation, self nurturing and loving, mutually supporting friendships are all part of the balanced life that will support you during challenging events when they occur.
Reiki can assist by enabling the stressed person to experience the positive physical sensations of the unstressed body. The unstressed body can sleep well, eat well, feel physically and emotionally strong. The desired result will be better coping skills to manage change, with more strength and insight. Mentally you are clearer, and feel more at peace.
For the person experiencing stress as a result of illness, again the positive feelings that Reiki promotes means that healing is optimised.
Reiki sessions are comforting, relaxing and healing. Reiki aligns the body, mind and spirit.
Classed as one of the energy modalities, Reiki works on the body's energy field to achieve this alignment.
Catherine McDowell-2001
Medical Herbalist, Reiki Master, Counsellor
