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Reiki: Can relaxation really heal?

Posted at 5:56 PM, Apr 01, 2016
and last updated 2016-04-01 18:49:05-04

Reiki, or energy healing, is known as complimentary of integrative medicine. It's a treatment that's not part of mainstream medicine. 

The practice has been gaining popularity over the years. Approximately 38 percent of adults in the US use it. 

Irena Culotta owns Vita Revive, an organic spa. She says Reiki can have a different effect on different people.

"My clients say 'I feel light-headed, it's not a bad light-headed.' Sometimes feel tired, some people feel very energized and can go about their day," she said.

Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It's done in a quiet, relaxing place. 

A practioner places his or her hands over the body or gently on top as a way to channel energy.

"You can't cleanse your body without cleansing your energy," Culotta said. "If you take out all of the toxins, you have to take out the toxic energy."

There have been few studies on Reiki. In one study by Yale University, patients who received a 20 minute Reiki treatment within three days of suffering a heart attack showed improved movement and heart rate variability. 

Another study, done in 2013, found that 10 minutes of energy health was as effective as physical therapy in improving the range of motion in people with mobility problems. 

"How about just relaxation, how about just peace, how about just a little love, how about clear up what you feel," Culotta said. "Energy comes through, it always comes through."

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health says Reiki should not be used to replace conventional care and you shouldn't' postpone seeing a health care provider. 

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