Research-Backed Benefits of Reiki

1. Reduces Stress and Promotes Relaxation

One of Reiki’s most consistent benefits reported in studies is its ability to reduce stress.

Research Highlight:A randomized controlled trial published in Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine (2019) found that Reiki significantly reduced anxiety and improved quality of life in patients undergoing cancer treatment. (Giasson & Bouchard, 2019)

Why it matters:Chronic stress affects nearly every system in the body. Reiki supports relaxation and nervous system balance, helping your body shift from “fight or flight” to “rest and repair.”

2. Helps Manage Pain

Reiki can be a gentle addition to pain management strategies, especially post-surgery or during chronic pain conditions.

Research Highlight:A study published in Pain Management Nursing (2015) found that patients who received Reiki after knee replacement surgery reported less pain and needed fewer pain medications. (Demir Doğan, 2015)

Why it matters:Whether you're recovering from surgery or managing daily discomfort, Reiki may help reduce your reliance on medications and improve comfort.

3. Supports Emotional Well-Being

Reiki isn’t just for the body, it can also calm the mind.

Research Highlight:In a controlled study, participants receiving Reiki experienced significantly reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety compared to the control group. This was published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2011). (Bowden et al., 2011)

Why it matters:In a time when mental health is more important than ever, Reiki offers a supportive space to ground and reset emotionally.

4. Complementary Support During Medical Treatments

Many hospitals and cancer centers now offer Reiki as a support therapy alongside conventional treatments.

Research Highlight:A pilot program at Columbia University Medical Center showed Reiki helped patients feel more relaxed, reduced fatigue, and supported recovery after surgery and during chemotherapy. (Thrane & Cohen, 2014)

Why it matters:Reiki doesn’t replace medical care, but it may ease side effects and improve your overall sense of wellness during treatment.

5. Improves Sleep Quality

Sleep is foundational to healing, and Reiki may help you get the rest your body needs.

Research Highlight:A study in Holistic Nursing Practice found that participants receiving Reiki reported improved sleep quality, which was attributed to reduced anxiety and stress. (Tsang et al., 2007)

Why it matters:If you struggle with insomnia or restless sleep, Reiki may help you unwind and sleep more deeply.

Final Thoughts

Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive practice with real potential to support healing, reduce stress, and improve quality of life. While it’s not a cure-all, research continues to confirm what many clients already know from experience—Reiki works best when used as part of a well-rounded approach to wellness.

If you’re curious about how Reiki could support your healing journey, reach out or schedule a session. It may be the supportive step your mind and body have been waiting for.

References

1. Giasson, M., & Bouchard, L. (2019). Effect of Reiki on Pain and Anxiety in the Elderly Diagnosed With Type 2 Diabetes. Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine, 24, 2515690X19879926.

2. Demir Doğan, M. (2015). The effect of Reiki on pain: A meta-analysis. Pain Management Nursing, 16(5), 694-705.

3. Bowden, D., Goddard, L., & Gruzelier, J. (2011). A randomised controlled single-blind trial of the effects of Reiki and positive imagery on well-being and salivary cortisol. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 17(3), 195-201.

4. Thrane, S., & Cohen, S. M. (2014). Effect of Reiki therapy on pain and anxiety in adults: An in-depth literature review of randomized trials with effect size calculations. Pain Management Nursing, 15(4), 897-908.

5. Tsang, K. L., Carlson, L. E., & Olson, K. (2007). Pilot crossover trial of Reiki versus rest for treating cancer-related fatigue. Integrative Cancer Therapies, 6(1), 25-35.