An exploratory study of reiki experiences in women who have cancer.
OBJECTIVE
To explore the perceptions and experiences of reiki for women who have cancer and identify outcome measures for an intervention study.


METHODS
A cross-sectional qualitative study of 10 women who had received reiki after cancer treatment was conducted. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and coded using framework analysis.


RESULTS
Key themes identified were: limited understanding of reiki prior to receiving any reiki; release of emotional strain during reiki-feelings of a release of energy, a clearing of the mind from cancer, inner peace/relaxation, hope, a sense of being cared for; experience of physical sensations during reiki, such as pain relief and tingling; physical, emotional and cognitive improvements after reiki, such as improved sleep, a sense of calm and peace, reduced depression and improved self-confidence.


CONCLUSIONS
Findings suggest that reiki could be a beneficial tool in the self-management of quality of life issues for women who have cancer.
School of Health, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia.
Marilynne N
MN
Kirshbaum
Alexandra House Spa, Huddersfield, UK.
Maxine
M
Stead
Centre for Applied Psychological and Health Research, Institute for Research in Citizenship and Applied Human Sciences, University of Huddersfield.
Serena
S
Bartys
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000451:nursing / Q000628:therapy*; D019124:Therapeutic Touch; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D016387:Women's Health
Cancer care; Complementary therapy; Neoplasm; Palliative care; Reiki; Wellbeing