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Autonomic nervous system changes during Reiki treatment: a preliminary study
Nicola Mackay1, Stig Hansen, Oona McFarlane
1Institute of Neurological Sciences, South Glasgow University Hospital NHS Trust, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF, Scotland, UK.
Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (New York, N.Y.)
|January 28, 2005
Summary
Reiki therapy may positively influence the autonomic nervous system, as indicated by reduced heart rate and blood pressure in a pilot study. Further research is warranted to explore these biological effects.
Area of Science:
- Integrative and Complementary Medicine
- Physiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- The autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates involuntary bodily functions.
- Investigating complementary therapies for ANS modulation is of clinical interest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of Reiki therapy on autonomic nervous system (ANS) function indices.
- To compare Reiki's impact against placebo and no-treatment control conditions.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, blinded trial involving 45 subjects in three groups: Reiki, placebo, and control (rest only).
- Continuous quantitative measurements of heart rate, blood pressure, cardiac vagal tone, baroreflex sensitivity, and breathing activity were recorded.
- Data were analyzed by comparing post-treatment values with baseline measurements.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in heart rate and diastolic blood pressure were observed in the Reiki group compared to placebo and control groups.
- These findings suggest a measurable physiological impact of Reiki on the ANS.
Conclusions:
- Reiki therapy demonstrates a potential effect on autonomic nervous system function.
- This pilot study's results, though based on a small sample size and modest changes, support the need for larger investigations into Reiki's biological mechanisms.