In treatment centers around the United States, a variety of alternative therapies are being used to help treat substance use and addiction. Some of the most popular methods in current use are acupuncture, massage, yoga, herbal medicine, reiki, and biofeedback. When used in combination with evidence-based treatments, these alternative methods have proved beneficial for addiction recovery.

There are many benefits to reiki. This article explores what reiki is, what to expect during a session, what benefits it provides during addiction recovery, and who would be a good candidate for this modality. Learning about reiki could open new doors for both recovering addicts and treatment specialists.

What Is Reiki?

Originating in Japan, reiki is a healing method used to reduce stress and induce relaxation. According to The International Center for Reiki Training, the name is a combination of two words in Japanese. Rei means “God’s Wisdom or Higher Power,” while Ki signifies “life force energy.” It is said to promote healing through the practitioner laying hands on the client to help an unseen “life force energy.” This energy is said to flow through you and, at higher levels, is said to make you happy and healthy. When this energy is low, it is said that you are more likely to be stressed or even sick. The treatment encompasses the entire body, including the physical body, mind, spirit, and emotions.

What to Expect During a Reiki Session

You should expect your reiki session to last anywhere from 20 to 90 minutes. During the first session, you will meet your practitioner, who will gather background information, including what you want to work on, anything you would like to be addressed directly, and if you have any parts of the body that are injured or sensitive to touch. They will also explain what to expect and discuss what you want to get out of the experience.

Next, the practitioner will direct you to either a treatment mat or table. You will lie down and typically be covered with a blanket as relaxing music plays in the background to set the tone for the session. The session is typically carried out in silence.

To begin the reiki session, the practitioner will begin moving their hands around your body by either lightly touching it or hovering just above. The healing is said to come from the person’s hands, so you may begin to feel different bodily sensations, including tingling, warmth, or heat. Those who undergo reiki therapy also report that it may stimulate memories or other imagery.

The session ends once the practitioner has completed their hand sequence over the client’s body. When the session is complete, the practitioner may ask you about your response to the therapy and any feelings you are experiencing. The session will most likely leave you feeling relaxed, calm, and centered.

Benefits for Addiction Recovery 

Reiki can be used for any individual in search of bodily healing. However, those in addiction recovery will experience specific benefits from a reiki session that will help make the process of attaining sobriety somewhat easier. It should be noted that reiki is not a treatment for addiction that can provide benefits by itself. Rather, it is a complementary therapy that can provide additional benefits when used in coordination with other modalities such as behavioral therapies, medication, and 12-Step programs, to name a few.

These benefits include:

• Added relaxation during early recovery
• Release of negative emotions, such as anger and resentment
• Improved self-esteem
• Alleviation of withdrawal symptoms
• Healing of physical and mental hurt caused by long-term substance abuse

Reiki is especially helpful in addiction recovery because it provides a sense of relaxation and calmness, which can help alleviate any negative feelings. Soothing these emotions is especially important because negative feelings such as anger, sadness, loneliness, low self-esteem, grief, loss, and isolation are common triggers of relapse. Reiki can help make recovery less overwhelming and bring about healing when used in combination with other treatments.

Who Is the Best Candidate for a Reiki Session?

Reiki can potentially help anyone open to the concepts of energy work and alternative therapies. There needs to be a willingness to believe in what reiki does for the overall body, mind, and spirit. Being open to the process and treatment is what will bring about the best results.

In addiction recovery, it is understandable to be skeptical about alternative treatments. However, maintaining an openness to various forms of treatment can enhance your healing and provide you with the best chance at long-term sobriety. Talking with your treatment coordinators will help you determine the best course of action for you. If you are interested in reiki, ask if it is available and if it would be beneficial to your recovery.

At The Kimberly Center, we believe in giving our clients the best chance at recovery and maintaining long-term sobriety. This is why we incorporate a wide variety of treatment modalities, including evidence-based treatment and alternative therapies. Our alternative therapies, including mindfulness and grounding techniques, are a way to cope with feelings, stressors, triggers, and urges by helping you manage stress and anxiety. In addition, we offer experiential therapies, allowing clients to engage in activities that can help them build healthy coping skills. If you have questions or would like more information on how reiki or other alternative methods can help in recovery from substance use disorders, contact us. At The Kimberly Center, we have a client-centered approach to therapy that is conformable, non-judgmental, and empathetic. Located in Fort Myers, Florida, we are here to assist you and help you gain a life free from substance dependence and destructive behaviors. Call today at (855) 452-3683.