Reiki
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a Japanese form of therapy that is delivered through the hands. Reiki means "universal life energy." Reiki practitioners believe that energy surrounds and moves through the human body. Reiki attempts to balance the flow of this energy and stimulate the body's healing abilities.
Although there are no scientific studies showing that Reiki is effective in treating any disease, a Reiki treatment may be able to bring about feelings of:
deep relaxation
warmth or sleepiness
increased well-being
Reiki: What It Is and How It Helps People With Cancer
Mar 8, 2019What to expect in a typical Reiki session
Reiki can be performed in a variety of settings — offices, clinics, hospitals, and homes. During a Reiki session:
You'll sit or lie down, fully clothed.
The Reiki practitioner will place his or her hands on or above your body, using 12 to 15 different hand positions.
The practitioner will hold each hand position for about 2 to 5 minutes as he or she tries to direct your energy to clear any blockages in your body's energy patterns. Hand positions are held until the practitioner feels that energy patterns are resolved.
Sessions can last from 30 to 90 minutes.
Afterwards, you may feel deeply relaxed.
Reiki practitioner requirements
No special credentials are required to be trained in Reiki, and there are a variety of different schools of Reiki. Most schools have 3 to 4 levels or degrees of training. Each level requires 1 to 2 days of training.
Reiki must be studied under the guidance of an experienced Reiki teacher. At each level, students receive an "attunement," or an energetic initiation. These initiations are believed to bring the capacity to access Reiki energy. Over a period of years, a student can study to become a Reiki Master. A Master is a Reiki teacher who can perform attunements.
There are varying state laws regulating the practice of Reiki. In some states, a person must be a licensed massage therapist in order to practice Reiki.
Many health care professionals seek training in Reiki, so if you're interested in having Reiki treatment, ask your doctor for recommendations.
For more information about finding a qualified complementary medicine practitioner, see our Finding a Complementary Medicine Practitioner section.
Research on Reiki in people with cancer
Studies suggest that Reiki can improve symptoms from cancer and cancer treatment without causing new side effects.
A 2024 study highlighted the benefits of Reiki during chemo. Reiki was given to 268 people with cancer during a chemotherapy infusion. They rated their pain and other symptoms before and after receiving 15 to 20 minutes of Reiki therapy. After Reiki, participants had less pain, fatigue, anxiety, and nausea, and improved well-being.
Important things to consider before trying Reiki
In general, Reiki is considered to be a safe practice. However, after a Reiki treatment, some people may experience symptoms such as:
headache
stomach upset
tiredness
weakness
Reiki practitioners believe that these types of symptoms indicate that the body is releasing toxins. If you experience these symptoms, your practitioner may tell you to rest, drink plenty of water, or eat lighter meals.
— Last updated on March 29, 2025 at 6:59 PM