An exploratory study of reiki experiences in women who have cancer.
Author: Kirshbaum MN1, Stead M2, Bartys S3
Affiliation:
1School of Health, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia.
2Alexandra House Spa, Huddersfield, UK.
3Centre 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]
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