An exploratory study of reiki experiences in women who have cancer.


Author: Kirshbaum MN1, Stead M2, Bartys S3

Affiliation: <sup>1</sup>School of Health, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia.

<sup>2</sup>Alexandra House Spa, Huddersfield, UK.

<sup>3</sup>Centre for Applied Psychological and Health Research, Institute for Research in Citizenship and Applied Human Sciences, University of Huddersfield.
Conference/Journal: Int J Palliat Nurs.
Date published: 2016 Apr 2
Other:
 Volume ID: 22   ,  Issue ID: 4   ,  Pages: 166-72   ,  Special Notes: doi: 10.12968/ijpn.2016.22.4.166.   ,  Word Count: 161  
    AIMS: To explore the perceptions and experiences of reiki for women who have cancer and identify outcome measures for an intervention study.



METHODS: A cross-sectional qualitative study of 10 women who had received reiki after cancer treatment was conducted. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and coded using framework analysis.



RESULTS: Key themes identified were: limited understanding of reiki prior to receiving any reiki; release of emotional strain during reiki-feelings of a release of energy, a clearing of the mind from cancer, inner peace/relaxation, hope, a sense of being cared for; experience of physical sensations during reiki, such as pain relief and tingling; physical, emotional and cognitive improvements after reiki, such as improved sleep, a sense of calm and peace, reduced depression and improved self-confidence.



CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that reiki could be a beneficial tool in the self-management of quality of life issues for women who have cancer.



KEYWORDS: Cancer care; Complementary therapy; Neoplasm; Palliative care; Reiki; Wellbeing



PMID: 27119403  [PubMed - in process]