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Reiki: a complementary therapy for life

¹Hospice of the Valley, Phoenix, Arizona, USA.

The American Journal of Hospice & Palliative Care

|January 1, 1997

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Reiki, a complementary therapy, helped a cancer patient achieve long-term stability and pain relief. This approach significantly improved his quality of life during his end-of-life journey.

Area of Science:

Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Integrative Oncology
Palliative Care

Background:

Aggressive cancer diagnosis often leads to limited life expectancy and significant symptom burden.
Palliative radiation and medication are standard care but may not fully address patient-reported outcomes.
The role of complementary therapies in enhancing quality of life for terminally ill patients warrants further investigation.

Observation:

A patient with aggressive cancer, initially given a limited prognosis, utilized Reiki alongside conventional palliative care.
The patient reported achieving long-term stability, freedom from immobilizing pain and swelling, and dramatic improvements in comfort and quality of life.
The patient's active intent during Reiki sessions was noted as a crucial factor in the observed outcomes.

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Findings:

Reiki interventions, particularly when combined with patient intent, can lead to stabilization and improved well-being in advanced cancer.
General trends observed with Reiki include periods of life stabilization, peaceful passing, and relief from pain, anxiety, dyspnea, and edema.
The patient's subjective experience highlights Reiki's potential to facilitate living well with advanced cancer.

Implications:

Reiki can be a valuable complementary therapy for patients on their end-of-life journey, enhancing the quality of remaining days.
Emphasizing patient intent in complementary therapies may optimize treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Further research into the mechanisms and efficacy of Reiki in palliative and end-of-life care is recommended.