Effects of Reiki on Pain and Selected Affective and Personality Variables of Chronically Ill Patients

One hundred and twenty participants were randomly assigned to one of four groups: 10 sessions of Reiki, 10 sessions of Progressive Muscle Relaxation, a control group receiving no treatment, and a placebo group receiving 10 sessions of false-Reiki. Pain, depression, state anxiety, trait anxiety, belief in personal control and other parameters were measured pre-test, post-test and at three month follow up. Based on significant results of the study the following conclusions were reached: Reiki is an effective modality for reducing pain, depression and state anxiety; Reiki is effective in enhancing positive personality changes such as decreased trait anxiety, increased self-esteem and a greater sense of internal locus of control; Reiki enhances one’s faith in God’s help; and gains made by Reiki tend to persist over longer periods of time.