Reiki is the Japanese term for a specific form of energy healing that incorporates both physical contact to channel energy through a practitioner to a client and distance healing methods. By focusing on energy and symbols to shape that energy, Reiki masters can work to relieve pain and ease transitions, including pregnancy and labor. Because Reiki energy is only for beneficial results, it is believed that it cannot be used for harm; it is either positive or neutral. However, clients should consult with their medical practitioners before engaging in any new forms of treatment, and caution should be taken by practitioners to ensure a pregnant client is comfortable and in a position that is healthful.
Preparing the Space
Creating a safe space with options for physical comfort during the Reiki treatment is essential for your pregnant clients. Having both a chair in which she can sit and a massage table allows your client to select what is most comfortable for her stage of pregnancy. If she chooses to lie on her back on the massage table, make pillows and bolsters available to support her lower back and legs to avoid blood clots, swelling or pelvic discomfort. A client in her third trimester would be served better by lying on her side during treatment with a bolster between her legs, or sitting in a chair with her feet up; these positions better support blood flow to the placenta. Pregnant women often experience a heightened sense of smell and can become more sensitive to strong fragrances such as incense or scented oils; avoid provoking an allergic reaction or potential nausea by clearing the air in the room ahead of time. During warm months, open windows to allow in fresh air.
Emotional Support
Reiki energy creates a sense of calm and ease in its recipient, and your pregnant client might benefit from a reduction in anxiety about pregnancy and an increase in a sense of well-being. Reiki also has been known to improve sleep quality, which can benefit a pregnant client experiencing insomnia or difficulty sleeping due to the changes in her body.
Physical Support
The energy channeled through Reiki practitioners can relieve pregnancy-associated pains in the mother's body and strengthen movement of fluids and energy between the client and her fetus. Reiki helps restore balance to a pregnant mother's body, and helps her to adjust more easily to physical changes both during and after pregnancy.
Labor Support
During labor, a practitioner can provide either direct, physical contact or distance healing to a client to help support the transitions of labor, calm a client's fears and reduce labor pains. Connecting with the mother and infant also can make the birth experience less stressful for both of them, and speed up post-natal healing.
Personal Care
Support your client by attuning her and teaching her the first level of Reiki so that she can continue basic healing, pain relief and stress reduction between visits. If her partner is with her during her treatments, these lessons also can benefit the family by giving your client a Reiki helper at home and can create early bonds between the other parent-to-be and the unborn child.
References
- "Essential Reiki: A Complete Guide to an Ancient Healing Art"; Diane Stein; 1995
- Using Complementary Therapy to Reduce Anxiety: The Effects of a Reiki Treatment Given to Hospitalized High Risk Antepartum Women
- Body Changes and Discomforts | womenshealth.gov
- "Midwifery Today"; Reiki: The Energy Doula; Toni Rakestraw; December; 2009
