Reiki

Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive healing practice that originated in Japan and has grown in popularity across the world.

What is Reiki?

Rooted in the belief that energy flows through and around us, Reiki aims to promote balance and well-being by encouraging the free flow of this life energy. Practitioners use a light touch or hold their hands just above the body to channel this energy, supporting the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Clients report that is a very calming, peaceful experience that can give them a renewed sense of emotional strength and resilience afterwards.

While scientific research into Reiki is still developing, anecdotal evidence and small-scale studies suggest positive effects on quality of life. Hospitals and hospices across the UK increasingly offer Reiki as part of their integrative care approach.

Can Reiki help those with cancer?

Reiki can offer significant benefits for those with cancer as a complementary therapy to conventional medical treatment. Cancer and its treatments can take a toll, physically and emotionally, with many patients feeling overwhelmed, anxious, tired and in pain. Reiki may help to ease some of these burdens by promoting deep relaxation and emotional calm. The soothing effect of Reiki may also help to reduce stress levels, which in turn can support immune function and improve overall wellbeing.

Pain management is another area where Reiki shows promise. While not a replacement for medication, Reiki can complement pain relief strategies by helping to lessen the perception of pain and increase comfort. Some patients also experience reduced nausea and fatigue following sessions, which can be especially valuable during chemotherapy or radiation.

Importantly, Reiki is safe and gentle, making it suitable for people at all stages of cancer treatment. It does not interfere with medical interventions and is delivered in a way that respects the individual’s physical limitations.  In a journey that can often feel overwhelming, Reiki provides a gentle and reassuring presence, helping patients feel more at ease in both body and mind.

How to refer

If you are new to Wessex Cancer Support and have not already had a wellbeing assessment with one of our friendly team, we ask that you contact us to make a referral for an appointment. Our team will provide you with further information and availability of any activities you both decide on. As a new client, we’ll add you to our email newsletter list so you can keep an eye on forthcoming activities, too.

Alternatively, you can email careteam@wessexcancer.org.uk to refer to your initial chat or drop into your local cancer support centre in person.

What should I expect from a Reiki session?

Your Reiki session will be a calming, restorative experience designed to help you relax and reset. You’ll remain fully clothed and lie comfortably on a massage table while your practitioner gently places their hands on or just above various points on your body. Reiki is non-invasive and quiet, many people find it so soothing that they drift off to sleep. You may feel warmth, tingling or simply a deep sense of peace. After the session, it’s common to feel lighter, more balanced or emotionally clear. Everyone responds differently and there’s no ‘right’ way to experience Reiki. We recommend staying well-hydrated and giving yourself time to process any shifts you notice. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, emotional release or energetic support, Reiki meets you where you are, gently and without judgment.

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