allisonjoy reiki

Namaste...

2011-09-01T12:52:00.001-04:00

...and welcome to my page.

Healing is not a luxury. It is absolutely necessary for us to grow, thrive, & manifest our most powerful visions of ourselves. We deserve to be healthy, to claim our strength & skills, and to gift ourselves the time, space, and resources to do so. The more connected we feel to all parts of ourselves (mentally, spiritually, emotionally, & physically), the more we can contribute to the evolution of ourselves, our work, the people and things we love, and our communities.

i believe that all indigenous cultures have some form of energy healing- an understanding that we all have the ability and responsibility to be involved in each others healing and growth. This, in turn, fosters collective action and strengthened communities. Passing energy to each other with positive intention, by touch or by wish, is the oldest form of healing we know.

Unfortunately, much of this knowledge has been lost along the way, and these days we are not taught to incorporate healing ritual and methods into our daily lives. Rather, they are seen as luxuries, or "special treats" that we gift ourselves or each other on rare occasions; birthdays, vacations, or once every few months when our bodies are burned out and we "really" need it.

But not only do we all really need it, we all deserve it. We all deserve to be in harmony with our emotions, to feel present and strong in our bodies, to have peace of mind, to feel empowered and confident with who we are and what we want to manifest for ourselves. We all deserve to create and nourish healthy relationships that allow us to acknowledge each others' Divine humanity.

So why don't we? Why do we constantly find ourselves stressed, exhausted, irritated, and unbalanced? The American Institute of Stress estimates that 75 to 90 percent of all visits to primary care physicians are for illnesses caused or made worse by stress. Included in that category are high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease. We are working more, and taking care of ourselves less. We are spending more time commuting and at our jobs than with our families and loved ones. We are pushing ourselves way beyond our physical and mental limits, and still demand more from our bodies and Spirits without allowing ourselves to relax, re-energize, release negative energy, center, or ground...And it affects us in every way; from our physical health to our emotional health, our decision making to our focus, our self-motivation to the way we treat the people we care about.

We are usually not taught to "listen" to our bodies, or to take time to check in with ourselves. We are not often taught the importance and necessity of self-care. We feel guilty for gifting ourselves with time and space for care when it is our right to claim and preserve our health. We are constantly giving of ourselves, but to give the best of ourselves requires that we exist whole and healthy.

One reason for this is that, especially within an American "first world" context, many healing methods and practices are not readily available to many communities. Worse yet, when and where they are available, these services are not affordable or accessible for most people, and we are lead to believe that they are reserved only for those who have monetary & class privilege.

i also believe that because of imperialism and colonization, many of our healing arts have been lost, erased, stolen, or commodified. Nowadays we hear about holistic healing practices as simply "trendy," or the "new fad." Different forms of meditation, yoga, acupuncture, healthy foods, etc are being promoted as the "next big thing." But there is nothing new about these modalities. They are ancient traditions, sacred in their power, passed down with patience, commitment, and compassion from healer to healer, and have been proven to enrich and nourish our lives on all levels, in all ways. People have been utilizing these forms of healing for centuries, and in order to truly appreciate their benefits, i believe it is important to welcome them into our lives, learn about and honor their origins & her/histories.

Namaste means:

I honor the place in you in which the entire Universe dwells.
i honor the place in you which is of Love,
of Integrity, of Wisdom, of Light, and of Peace.
When you are in that place in you, and I am in that place in me,
We Are One.

The origin of healing is within its offering.
It is a sacred gift. A necessary one.
One i humbly, powerfully, & lovingly offer you.

~Reiki for Puppies & Dogs @ Sit. Stay. Play!

2010-09-24T12:52:00.002-04:00

Updated September 2010

For almost two years, I had the wonderful opportunity to offer my healing services to the amazing dogs who blessed us with their Spirits and Spunk at Sit. Stay. Play! & The Paw Pad dog daycare & training centers. It was part of my growth as a healer to begin to offer this powerful gift to animals, and part thank you to the dogs for allowing me to learn so much from them about how to be a kind, communicative, and better trainer. It never ceases to amaze me; the way animals can be so aware of their bodies, the humble nature with which they will ask for or accept healing if it is needed or offered, and their capacity to allow the energy to nourish them on mental, emotional, and physical levels... There are no human traits like skepticism or pride or embarrassment to hinder their requests or acceptance of healing energy.

It has been such a blessing for me to be a part of this process with the dogs. In the winter of 2008, Eleasha sold Sit.Stay.Play! to move back to Pennsylvania and begin the work of growing her own private dog training practice. The business survived, Eleasha commuted back and forth to continue teaching classes, and it was re-named The Paw Pad. I stayed. But all things have their transitions, and shortly before Eleasha was offered a new job at the Pennsylvania SPCA, I found that it was also time for me to accept a new opportunity in NYC. I will still continue to offer Reiki sessions to current and new clients, but will no longer be located in Union, NJ. I will be available for sessions in Jersey City, New York City, and in-home visits.

My deepest gratitude to Eleasha for all that she has taught me, for igniting my passion for training, and for the opportunity to spend time with dogs- these magnificent creatures that have brought me joy, companionship, and abundant lessons. I look forward to continuing the journey.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

December 2007

[allisonjoy treating Gunner, Eleasha's Rottweiler]

i'm so excited to start a new partnership with the wonderful people at Sit. Stay. Play! in Union, NJ. Eleasha Gall, the owner & head trainer, is absolutely amazing. She has offered to share her space with me so that i can administer Reiki treatments for pets there. It is a safe, friendly environment where staff and owners alike are all committed to the best care & training for their furry friends.

My partner and i adopted an 8 week old puppy from a rescue shelter last December, and after two weeks, we enrolled her into class at Sit. Stay. Play! We've been taking classes with Eleasha ever since, and our only regret is missing out on those first two weeks. We have completed puppy class, basic obedience levels 1 & 2, advanced level 3, agility, and a tricks class together. We have also taken & passed the Canine Good Citizen Test so that Cornbread can continue training to become a therapy pet.

I am currently working at Sit. Stay. Play! during daycare hours, and apprenticing with Eleasha during class hours to learn as much as I can about the animals that bring us so much joy. I believe this continued education will enhance my practice, allow me to understand why our dogs behave the way they do, and how to connect with them on multiple levels so that i can administer the best possible care during Reiki sessions.

In a non-regulated field where many call themselves dog trainers, but few are actually equipped to live up to the task, Eleasha stands out as a well-seasoned, patient, and certified professional. Her years of experience and use of humane techniques, positive reinforcement, & praise create a delightful environment where both owners and companions are eager and happy to learn together. Eleasha is always available to answer any questions you may have, oftentimes staying after class to make sure everyone's concerns are addressed. There is never any doubt that her first responsibility as a trainer is to the health and well being of the animals and the proper education of their people. Being nerdy dog parents, we started doing our research a year before adopting, and we couldn't have found a better, more affordable, talented, and compassionate teacher. Now after a year, we have watched our little one grow into a well adjusted, well behaved, brilliant addition to our family who is on track to becoming a therapy pet. We cannot express how invaluable Eleasha's guidance has been to us, how grateful we are for her dedication & skill, and what an absolute joy our dog has brought to our lives. Whatever your training needs may be; help with an aggressive dog, basic obedience, or teaching your dog new tricks- we enthusiastically recommend Eleasha Gall's services for your pet companion!

[allisonjoy treating Max, the Great Dane]

To schedule a treatment for your dog, email allisonjoyreiki@gmail.com.

Articles on Reiki for Animals

2008-12-14T13:49:00.003-05:00

Animal Wellness Magazine(August/September 2005)- How Reiki Heals: A Hands On Approach to Well Being

Reiki News Magazine (Spring 2006)- Reiki & Animals: Creating a World of Wellness

WebVet- Reiki Therapy: Healing your pet with the 'universal life energy.'

Reiki & Animals: Creating a World of Wellness

2008-12-12T15:40:00.003-05:00

By Kathleen Prasad

Reiki News Magazine, Spring 2006 Issue

“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.”

This quote, by celebrated French author Anatole France, captures in a nutshell the power and beauty of animals and the gifts they bring to our lives. In working with animals and Reiki, we open a window to this relationship; by connecting to animals energetically and being a part of their healing process, we are able to deepen our connection to the universe and our understanding of our place within it.

Reiki is ideal for use with animals because it is gentle and noninvasive. It works as a wonderful and safe complement to other systems of healing, both allopathic and holistic. It doesn’t cause stress, discomfort, or pain, and yet yields powerful results. As highly sensitive and energetically aware beings, animals respond intuitively to Reiki’s power in healing emotional, behavioral, and physical illnesses and injuries. In the deepest sense, Reiki helps the body heal itself. But even when a physical healing is not possible, Reiki can bring peace and comfort, and ease the transition to death. In addition, Reiki provides comfort and peace to surviving family members (both humans and animals) as they deal with the grief of loss. My student Michelle, for example, learned of Reiki just before her beloved cat, Ebony, passed away:

Traditional medicine had done all that it could. Inspired to help him in his last days, Michelle began to explore alternative healing options. Attracted by Reiki’s ability to be given without direct contact, she began regular treatments for Ebony. After Reiki helped him pass with grace and peace, and without the pain that usually accompanied such [AN] illness, Michelle was faced with her own emptiness. Ebony had been her constant companion for more than 15 years, and she didn’t know how to go on without him. With regular Reiki treatments for herself, Michelle was able to heal the grief and pain in her heart. She was so amazed at how much these treatments helped her in her time of deepest need, that she was inspired to learn to practice Reiki herself. Within a year, she had adopted a new kitten and begun giving her regular Reiki treatments as a regular part of their time together. With each treatment, her bond and understanding of her new kitty companion deepened. As Reiki brought healing and peace to both her new kitty and her own heart, it also brought a new understanding of the gifts animals could bring. And as her Reiki practice unfolded and expanded to become a central part of her life, and eventually her career, she came to realize that she would never have found this healing practice without Ebony. In bringing to her the most difficult lesson of life after loss, her treasured cat had truly guided her to her heart’s calling.

Reiki works even in extremely stressful environments, like animal shelters, bringing a sense of calm to the animal recipient. The story of one shelter dog I treated comes to mind:

The shelter dog jumped, circled and barked incessantly, unable to relax in the stressful new environment of the kennel. He had recently been removed from his home due to abuse and neglect, and it appeared that he had never felt the gentle touch of a human hand. His ribs poked through his sides, and his body was covered in wounds, both old and new. I sat in the lotus position, just outside the kennel, put in my earplugs and closed my eyes, silently letting the dog know I was here to help him. Keeping my eyes averted in respect, I began to offer him Reiki energy through the wire mesh of his cage, letting him know he need take only the energy he was open to. Almost immediately, the dog stopped jumping and approached the bars carefully, staring at me briefly before retreating to the other side of the kennel. After just a few more jumps, barks, and circling by me to sniff curiously, he began to yawn and his eyelids became heavy. Within a few more minutes, he had stopped barking completely and come to the side of the kennel nearest to me again. This time, after giving me a meaningful gaze and plopping down on his side, he leaned his body against the bars, let out a huge sigh, and settled into a relaxing Reiki nap.

This is just one of the many examples of how Reiki can build trust and bring stress-relief and relaxation to even the most stressful situations. In this way, Reiki practitioners often find themselves serving as harbingers of peace and harmony. In offering healing to the animals, we offer a rebalancing not only to animals themselves, but also to the human/animal bond. In learning the language of energy, with the help of the animals, we can learn to live closer to their world, to nature and to the earth. As the above story illustrates, when approached with respect and gentleness, regardless of what their previous experiences with humans may be, animals can learn to trust again in the peaceful harmony provided by a Reiki treatment. Humans, too, can learn to trust the subtle yet powerful possibilities of Reiki’s healing energy.

According to Dr. Lauren Chattigre, DVM, DVetHom, CVA, CVCP, Reiki Master, of the Cascade Summit Animal Hospital in West Linn, Oregon, openness to Reiki hinges on people’s acceptance of the unknown. “It’s just a question of people getting used to the idea, of people trying it and seeing the benefits. Change is slow, especially in scientific circles, you know. Acupuncture used to be not nearly as accepted as it is now. It’s just been a matter of time and trial and education and people trying it.”

A growing number of veterinarians around the world are opening their minds and even offices to Reiki. For example, holistic veterinarians in the United Kingdom work in conjunction with Reiki practitioners, providing referrals and support. In the United States alone, nearly 100 veterinarians are listed as Reiki practitioners with the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (www.ahvma.org).

Dr. Chattigre practices veterinary medicine using both conventional and alternative methods. She uses Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Homeopathy, and Reiki to support the health and well-being of her animal clients. “Reiki, though, is a tougher sell. Because it’s more out there. Acupuncture, you can see a needle going in; chiropractic, you can see something moving. But Reiki is a little tougher for people to accept.”

Nonetheless, her clients, when open to Reiki, have seen wonderful results. Dr. Chattigre remembers one Reiki client, “a very young dog who had to have bilateral hip surgery and I did Reiki after each. They didn’t do both surgeries at the same time; they did one and allowed it to heal, and did the other and allowed it to heal, and the Reiki sessions started out in person, I went to her house. But after a time, we did those by distance as well. And later on, when they re-X-rayed the area to just monitor the healing, apparently the surgeon was quite impressed with the speed of healing and he said, ‘What are you doing for this dog?’ and she tried to explain, and he said, ‘Well, whatever you’re doing, just keep doing it!’ ”

Dr. Chattigre also recalls a feline client who responded particularly well to Reiki. “He had recurrent urinary crystals, mostly because of stress. And a lot of kitties get crystals from stress, but he particularly was a very high-stress kitty. And the client could not bring him into the clinic, because he had that much trouble coming in specifically. So for him, I actually did distance Reiki, where I would sit in a room quietly in the vet clinic, and he would be at his house, and there are ways in Reiki practice where you send the energy of Reiki long-distance. And during the session, we would set up a time so that she [the cat’s person] knew and I knew. The cat would just be doing his thing, but she often commented that at that time, he would become very quiet, not fall asleep per se, but just become quiet and thoughtful, and afterward he would be much calmer. So she would just call me periodically for a distant Reiki session when he seemed to be getting a little more uptight.” With regular distant Reiki treatments, he was able to remain crystal-free.

For veterinarian Carolina Kliass of Sao Paulo, Brazil, it’s all a matter of letting people see the results Reiki can produce. In her private practice, Dr. Kliass uses conventional veterinary techniques in addition to Reiki, and occasionally flower essences and Homeopathy.

Dr. Kliass fondly remembers, one story of “a client I’ll never forget. It was a Boxer, she was 10 years old, and passed away two months ago. And she was very special because all the responses that you want from a person or a dog, or animal—that you’d expect from Reiki—she gave to me. All the responses.” Each time Dr. Kliass visited the dog’s home for a Reiki treatment, “she turned and went to the special place that always we did Reiki. We always did Reiki there, or on the ground near the sofa or on the sofa. And she lay down and looked at me and said, ‘I’m here, work on me.’ It was so fun; she was amazing. She always respected the Reiki sessions; it was very nice. She was my darling. She was wonderful.”

Besides the warm emotional response the Boxer gave to Dr. Kliass during treatments, the dog responded well physically to treatments. “She had bone cancer, and the evolution was not so fast as was expected, because it’s a very aggressive disease, and it took more than a year until she passed away,” says Dr. Kliass. “And she was taking homeopathic remedies, too, but without Reiki, I think this period would be shorter, absolutely. A few months.”

Dr. Kliass believes the dog’s quality of life during her year of Reiki treatments was also enhanced: “This year period, she was great. She lived on a farm: a ranch, all hills up and down, and she walked all around with this cancer in her leg.”

Treatment Guidelines

When offering Reiki to your animal, there are two options for treat-ments: in-person Reiki (for Level 1 through Master Level practitioners) and distant Reiki (for Level 2 and Master Level practitioners).

Offering Reiki in person to your animal means being in the same room with him as you give a treatment. When choosing this kind of treatment, find a familiar and comfortable place where your animal is free to move within the room, without constraints. In addition, always ask his permission before you begin. By giving your animal freedom and choice in treatment, you build trust and acceptance. Many animals enjoy hands-on treatments, and will come forward and put their bodies under your hands. In these cases, use the hand positions that seem comfortable and pleasing to your animal. Often, hands-on treatments may involve only one or two hand positions. Remember that Reiki will go where it needs to go, and the most important role for you is to be an open channel for the energy. That’s one of the lessons I learned after volunteering at BrightHaven, a non-profit, holistic animal retreat in Sebastopol, California:

In working with the senior and special needs animals at BrightHaven, I learn something new from my animal teachers every visit! When I arrive, I find a seat in one of the rooms, center myself and ask whatever animals want and need healing to come; I mentally let them know that I am there to offer healing to whoever is open to it. In the beginning, I expected the most fragile cats to shy away from the stronger feeling of hands-on Reiki, and the stronger, healthier ones to approach me. But time and time again, the most fragile ones are the ones who climb into my lap the moment I arrive and stay there until I leave. Sometimes, they are too sick to even walk, and they will simply lift their head and stretch toward me, trying to come closer. The key is, I believe, that I have allowed them to approach me, to CHOOSE Reiki for themselves, thus honoring their unique and individual ways of receiving it.

For some animals, treatments are much more comfortable from a few feet away, or even from across the room or paddock, and by allowing your animal to come and go from your hands according to his preference, you will ensure an enthusiastic response! Allow 30 to 60 minutes for optimum results. The more you work with animals, the easier this will become:

Max is an 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood, 18.2 hands in height. He has been receiving weekly Reiki treatments since March 2005, and is a perfect example of how an in-person treatment is likely to unfold. He likes receiving Reiki treatments in a specific way: As I enter his paddock, he comes and greets me, pushing his nose into my chest and licking my palms or carefully pulling my hat off my head. Once I ask permission and begin the Reiki treatment, he walks into his three-sided shelter and settles in for a nap. Each time, his head drops all the way to the ground as he yawns several times. He occasionally sways so much in his sleep that it looks like his knees are about to buckle! Respectfully, I keep the distance between us, treating him from about 15 feet away. Occasionally, he wakes up long enough to arch his back like a cat stretching or to lift his back legs into the air.

At the end of the treatment, he approaches me again and breathes deeply into my chest, before walking away and resuming his horsey activities (grazing, visiting neighboring horses and so on). It is a lovely pattern of treatment that we both enjoy. He knows why I'm there and appreciates the healing energy, and I let him choose to receive the treatment exactly as he is comfortable to receive it.

The second option for treating your animal is through distant healing. Distant Healing is very effective and can be preferable to hands-on treatments in some instances.

It is wonderful to be able to send your animal Reiki when you are away from him. And some animals may be extremely small, fearful, old and fragile, or close to death and may be better able to relax and absorb Reiki when you are out of their presence. Allow 20 to 30 minutes for optimum results.

Distant Reiki offers the same benefits as hands-on Reiki: physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. Because we are all one at the most basic, energetic level, healing distantly is not so much “sending energy” as it is remembering and “truly knowing” this connection of all things.

Mattie is an older, beautiful lab mix. He received a series of four distant treatments for stiffness and difficulty walking in his hind end. The first treatment I sent to him began with my focusing on his photo and asking of his permission to send healing. The energy flowed very gradually at first, and I could tell he was still getting used to the feeling of the energy. I reassured him that he need take only the energy he was comfortable receiving: that this treatment was on HIS terms. By the end of the first treatment, I felt the energy flowing very strongly to him. Sure enough, his person said that he paced during the first half of the treatment, finally settling down and resting at the end. On the subsequent three treatments, however, once he had assessed the energy and trusted that he could take the energy in the ways he was comfortable, he settled more quickly each time, finally sleeping through the entire fourth treatment. His person happily relayed to me that he showed immediate improvement in the balance and coordination of his hind end in his daily walks.

In distant Reiki, energy is sent mentally, either using intention, or sometimes using a photo or surrogate to represent the client. A distant Reiki treatment can provide pain relief for various illnesses and injuries, accelerated healing from surgery, emotional healing, including healing for behavioral issues, prevention of illness or accelerated healing of an illness, and can greatly ease the transition to death. Distant Reiki is also helpful in healing family situations that may involve your animal and in helping human companions with the process of an animal’s death. A distant treatment can also be sent to heal a traumatic event in your animal's past.

Looking Forward to the Future
As more people, including veterinarians, educate themselves about the options of complementary healing modalities such as Reiki, more and more animals will benefit. But on a deeper level, as humans experience the healing possibilities of energetic connection with animals, a new and deeper understanding of our relationship with each other and place in the universe will result. By offering animals the gift of Reiki peace and harmony, you open yourself to the possibility of living in a world of respect and reverence for all creatures: a world of true balance and wellness.

Finding the Optimum Treatment Program
Although sometimes healing can be seen in one or two treatments, for continued health, balance and well-being, all animals benefit most from a regularly scheduled program of Reiki. Remember, while Reiki is a powerful healing system on its own, it is also a wonderful complement to other therapies that may be helping your animal recover. It is not meant as a substitute for veterinary care. In addition to providing Reiki treatments for your animal, always consult your trusted veterinarian about the best course of medical treatment.

EQUINE, CANINE, AND FELINE REIKI TREATMENT PROGRAMS:

For horses in full training (endurance, dressage, etc.), working, agility, or show dogs, and show cats: Begin with a series of four treatments on consecutive days, then once a week or every other week for maintenance. Daily treatments suggested on the most demanding of days.
For horses in rehab and dogs and cats recovering from injury/illness: Begin with a series of at least four treatments on consecutive days, followed by once or twice a week until recovery.
For horses in retirement, and senior dogs and cats: Begin with a series of four treatments on consecutive days, followed by once a week or every other week for maintenance.
For horses, dogs, and cats nearing their transition: Begin with a series of treatments on consecutive days, followed by a few times a week or as needed for support in this process.

SMALL ANIMAL/AVIAN REIKI TREATMENT PROGRAMS:

Health maintenance: Begin with a series of four treatments on consecutive days, followed by once a week or every other week for maintenance.
Recovery from illness/injury: Daily treatment or as often as needed until recovery.
Seniors: Begin with a series of four treatments on consecutive days, followed by once a week or as needed for maintenance.
Nearing their transition: Daily treatments or as needed for support with this process.

BIO: Kathleen Prasad is an Educator, Writer, and Founder and Director of Animal Reiki Source. She offers training programs, treatments and information about Reiki for animals. She is co-author of the new book Animal Reiki: Using Energy to Heal the Animals in Your Life, published by Ulysses Press, March 2006. For more information, please visit her website at www.animalreikisource.com.

Reiki in Minneapolis

2008-10-05T14:59:00.000-04:00

~Reiki in Chicago!!! {Oct 13 - 22}

2008-10-01T10:31:00.001-04:00

peace powerful & beautiful ones...

i hope that your fall season is gentle transition, and that you were able to take big bites out of the summer months to fill you with enough warmth to hold you as the winter dances our way...

i will be back in Chicago & will be available to offer Reiki treatments from October 13th to the 21st @ The Center on Halsted. i am so excited for this new partnership, the opportunity to have my services be more accessible to the Chicago LGBT community, and to see my chi-iL fam! please email me at allisonjoyreiki@gmail.com to schedule an appointment.

abundant blessings & brilliant light,
allisonjoy

Treatment Application

2008-09-06T12:23:00.004-04:00

Name:

Email:

Phone #:

Best time of day to call:

Preferred date and time for appointment (include alternate option):

1] Who is this treatment for? If not for yourself, please include all names, and your relationship to the Reiki recipient(s). Has he/she/they given you consent to receiving this treatment?

2] Have you or the recipient ever engaged in other forms of holistic healing or complimentary healthcare (i.e. yoga, acupuncture, meditation, etc)?

If yes, please describe

3] Why are you interested in Reiki?

4] Describe the condition, situation or event for which you are requesting Reiki.

5] Even if the treatment is meant for say grievance over a pet, or to boost the memory of someone doing an exam, please give a brief medical history of the Reiki recipient, and include the current medication the recipient takes. Provide specific details. For example, in case of heart issues, indicate if the recipient has a pace maker. If you have cancer, where is it located and has it spread, etc. This information will assist your practitioner in creating the best treatment plan possible.

6] What are the usual symptoms of the condition/situation for which you want Reiki?

7] Describe your/the recipient's lifestyle in terms of smoking, drinking, eating, and exercise habits.

8] What emotional challenges are you currently working on (eg. as a result of your physical illness)?

9] Do you understand that I cannot guarantee any specific benefits you/the recipient might receive from treatment? Reiki goes where it's most needed and it's your body & spirit that decide how to use the Reiki energy for your highest good.

* Please read the below disclaimer note and indicate your understanding and agreement to this treatment relationship by printing out this form and including your signature below. In doing so, you are acting on behalf of the Reiki Recipient.

disclaimer:

"I freely acknowledge that I am fully aware that Allison Joy Faelnar is not a medical doctor, or any other kind of medical practitioner and she has not represented herself in any way as possessing any medical expertise or medical training whatsoever and has not prescribed, diagnosed or treated or recommend any particular treatment or medication or substance for me in respect of my injury, ailment or disease that I may possess.

I have not been cajoled, coerced, threatened or persuaded by Allison Joy Faelnar to undergo or partake in any particular treatment or medication or substance, and that I freely acknowledge that any unorthodox or unusual treatment or medication or substance that I may utilize is done with my full awareness and acknowledgment that it is of my own free will.

Further to accepting the explained treatment, I, the undersigned, for myself, my heirs, successors, executors, administrators and assignees, hereby release and forever discharge Allison Joy Faelnar, her associates, their heirs, and her heirs, successors, executors, administrators and assignees, from any and all actions, causes of action, claims and demands for or by reason of any damage, loss or injury, to person and property which heretofore has been or hereafter maybe sustained in consequence of any medication, substance or treatment which I may use or consume in any respect of and for any attempts by myself or anyone on my behalf to cause temporary or permanent relief from the symptoms of any injury, ailment or disease with which I have been or will be diagnosed."

__________________________________

Signature

__________

Date

~The Science Behind Reiki

2008-08-31T23:36:00.002-04:00

by: Tamisha Sabrina

What Happens in a Treatment?

Independent research by Dr. Robert Becker and Dr. John Zimmerman during the 1980's investigated what happens whilst people practice therapies like Reiki. They found that not only do the brain wave patterns of practitioner and receiver become synchronised in the alpha state, characteristic of deep relaxation and meditation, but they pulse in unison with the earth's magnetic field, known as the Schuman Resonance. During these moments, the biomagnetic field of the practitioners' hands is at least 1000 times greater than normal, and not as a result of internal body current. Toni Bunnell (1997) suggests that the linking of energy fields between practitioner and earth allows the practitioner to dr.aw on the 'infinite energy source' or 'universal energy field' via the Schuman Resonance. Prof. Paul Davies and Dr. John Gribben in The Matter Myth (1991), discuss the quantum physics view of a 'living universe' in which everything is connected in a 'living web of interdependence'. All of this supports the subjective experience of 'oneness' and 'expanded consciousness' related by those who regularly receive or self-treat with Reiki.

Zimmerman (1990) in the USA and Seto (1992) in Japan further investigated the large pulsating biomagnetic field that is emitted from the hands of energy practitioners whilst they work. They discovered that the pulses are in the same frequencies as brain waves, and sweep up and down from 0.3 - 30 Hz, focusing mostly in 7 - 8 Hz, alpha state. Independent medical research has shown that this range of frequencies will stimulate healing in the body, with specific frequencies being suitable for different tissues. For example, 2 Hz encourages nerve regeneration, 7Hz bone growth, 10Hz ligament mending, and 15 Hz capillary formation. Physiotherapy equipment based on these principles has been designed to aid soft tissue regeneration, and ultra sound technology is commonly used to clear clogged arteries and disintegrate kidney stones. Also, it has been known for many years that placing an electrical coil around a fracture that refuses to mend will stimulate bone growth and repair.

Becker explains that 'brain waves' are not confined to the brain but travel throughout the body via the perineural system, the sheaths of connective tissue surrounding all nerves. During treatment, these waves begin as relatively weak pulses in the thalamus of the practitioner's brain, and gather cumulative strength as they flow to the peripheral nerves of the body including the hands. The same effect is mirrored in the person receiving treatment, and Becker suggests that it is this system more than any other, that regulates injury repair and system rebalance. This highlights one of the special features of Reiki (and similar therapies) - that both practitioner and client receive the benefits of a treatment, which makes it very efficient.

It is interesting to note that Dr. Becker carried out his study on world-wide array of cross-cultural subjects, and no matter what their belief systems or customs, or how opposed to each other their customs were, all tested the same. Part of Reiki's growing popularity is that it does not impose a set of beliefs, and can therefore be used by people of any background and faith, or none at all. This neutrality makes it particularly appropriate to a medical or prison setting.

(http://www.reikiteaching.co.uk/page10.html)

~More Reiki Research: Stress & Depression

2008-08-17T22:59:00.001-04:00

Long-Term Effects of Energetic Healing on Symptoms of Psychological Depression and Self-Perceived Stress
Pat Cougar summarizes a research article by Adina Goldman Shore, PhD
A Sampling and Overview of Reiki and "Hands-On" Healing Research.
Compiled by Pat Cougar R.N., Reiki Master
Stress and Your Health
by Pat Cougar, R.N., Reiki Master & David M. Pierce, C.Ht

Long-Term Effects of Energetic Healing on Symptoms of Psychological Depression and Self-Perceived Stress

Dr. Adina Goldman Shore's article is the result of a one-year study of the effects of Reiki, a form of energy healing, on psychological depression and self-reported stress. The study investigated the hypothesis that it is the Reiki energy itself, and not the "hands on" touch, that is the healing factor, and examined the long-term effects of Reiki on depression and stress. Dr. Shore also provides some basic information regarding the uses of Reiki, including it usefulness in psychotherapy.

Forty-five participants with symptoms of depression and stress volunteered for this study. Participant were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Hands-on (touch) Reiki, Distance (non-touch) Reiki, and distance Reiki placebo. Participants were not aware of which group would be receiving placebo Reiki. Twelve Reiki Masters, and three second degree Reiki practitioners were chosen to conduct the one to one and one-half hour sessions. Each participant received one treatment weekly for six weeks. The article describes the protocols for the selection of Reiki practitioners and participants for the study, as well as uniformity in the manner in which sessions were conducted.

Three tests, designed to measure levels of depression and stress, were administered to each participant before and after the series of six sessions. One year later, the participants retook the three tests. After testing was completed, the control/placebo group received another six weeks of Reiki treatments, this time with actual Reiki, and the three tests were administered to this group again.

Findings of the study demonstrated that there were no changes in the control/placebo group until they received the six sessions of actual Reiki a year after the first six placebo sessions. Both the hands-on and the distance Reiki were effective in relieving symptoms of depression and stress. Distance Reiki was shown to be slightly more effective than hands on, which ruled out touch as the causative factor, although the difference may have been influenced in part by the project's design (please see original article for details). The results of the placebo group served to rule out any changes due to expectations of the participants. Re-testing a year later demonstrated that the positive results of the six Reiki treatments had remained intact.

Dr. Shore suggests combining Reiki with traditional forms of treatment for psychological depression, because of Reiki's effectiveness, and cost reduction. She encourages further studies of energy healing on other psychological and physiological disorders.

A Sampling and Overview of Reiki and "Hands-On" Healing Research.
Compiled by Pat Cougar R.N., Reiki Master

In the 1970's, science shifts its view of energy, and quantum physics shows us that we are energy fields moving and interacting with created matter and its energy fields. In the Western world, it was an exciting period of time for a modern "re-discovery" of the existence of a human energy system and using bioenergy for healing. While Russia had the Kirlians photographing the outer energy fields or auras of plants, animals and people, in the United States we had Dr. Thelma Moss doing similar work(1). Through her research we are shown pictures of hands sending energy to another for healing, how and energy field changes during acupuncture, and when a person has taken coffee and a cigarette.

In the next several years, many individuals, universities and institutions conducted research on energy healing modalities. In 1990 Americans spent about $12 billion for alternative therapies(2). This amount was for direct services and did not include equipment, devices, books or preparations such as herbs and homeoPathic medicines. Under public pressure, as well as financial concerns from Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO's), in 1992 the National Institute of Health's (NIH) Office of Alternative Medicine (OAM) was formed in the United States. Its purpose is to sponsor research into complementary medicine, and in 1994 a report was made available to the public: "Alternative Medicine: Expanding Medical Horizons(3).

In 1995, William Rand, director of the Center for Reiki Training, published "Reiki Research" on his website(4). He summarizes eight pieces of research to validate the effectiveness of Reiki or similar healing techniques using bioenergy.

In 1997, brewitt, Vittetoe, and Hartwell published a study evaluating the effects of Reiki on chronic illness(5). Five subjects with multiple sclerosis, lupus, fibromyalgia, or thyroid goiter, were given eleven one-hour Reiki sessions over a nine week period. These subjects received no other methods of treatment during the study. Improvement in spleen, immune, and nervous system function were quantified by electrodermal screening. In addition, all subjects reported a reduction of pain, an increase in relaxation, and more mobility after the Reiki.

It seems that nurses have been in a unique position as healing professionals, to help make "hands-on" healing methods more acceptable to the public. Dolores Krieger, professor of Nursing at New York University, developed Therapeutic Touch in the 1970's(6)(7). The theory that one person's energy field could interact with another's to promote healing was into practice in hospitals and other healthcare settings. The American Nurses Association (ANA) recognizes this "hands-on" healing method today. Similar approaches, Healing Touch and Reiki, have steadily gained in popularity, particularly among nurses.

In 1980, the American Holistic Nurses' Association (AHNA) was founded and is presently enjoying a large membership of nurses in the U.S. and world-wide(8). One of its many functions is to promote research in holistic nursing. The Association offers research grants and publishes a monthly journal, the Journal of Holistic Nursing, which includes articles on holistic research, current literature, and book reviews.

Nurse Wendy Wetzel, studied the effects of Reiki on hemoglobin, in the late 1980's(9). Dolores Krieger had used hemoglobin studies earlier in her research project for Therapeutic Touch. Both researchers were able to demonstrate measurable physiological effects of these healing modalities on the human body.

For the past ten years, two Reiki Masters, Libby barnett, M.S.W. and Maggie Chambers, have brought Reiki into many hospitals and hospice programs. In their book, published in 1996, they list examples and case studies of effectively using Reiki with psychotherapy, hospice Patients and staff, and in the hospital setting with cancer, AIDS, diabetes, transplant, and surgical Patients(10). Although barnett and Chambers did not do scientific research, the improvements in Patients' condition were observed and documented by medical staff and, most importantly, felt by the recipients. Barnett and Chambers also list several schools of medicine, including Dartmouth, University of Virginia, University of Arizona, and Georgetown University, which introduce medical students to comple-mentary medicine. Barnett and Chambers have also conducted classes on Reiki with first and second year medical students at Tufts. They discuss other programs that use Reiki, such as the well known Wellspring Cancer program, which offers Reiki sessions as part of the week-long residential retreat.

Julie Motz, M.P.H., has pioneered the use of energy healing in the operating room for the past several years(11). She started with her first surgery in 1994 with Dr. Mehmet Oz, a leading cardio-thoracic surgeon in the U.S., working out of Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City. In 1986, Ms Motz learned Reiki. She has also studied reflexology, macrobiotics, Chinese medicine, ayurvedic medicine, and hypnosis. Ms Motz also has an appreciation of modern science, as she was exposed to physics by her father, a theoretical physicist. She believes that human cells and organs have memory and emotions, and that hiding emotions creates disease. Through her energy work, Patients show less depression, pain lower than average organ rejection rates, a better functioning immune system, and a positive attitude for healing.

In the spring of 2000, the California Board of Registered Nursing issued a statement regarding complementary and alternative therapies in registered nursing practice(12). It describes the ability of R.N.'s to practice complementary therapies and provide information regarding these therapies to Patients.

Moss, Thelma, Ph.D. The Body Electric. New York; St. Martin's Press, 1979
Cahill, Matthew, et al; Nurses Handbook of Alternative & Complementary Therapies. Springhouse Corp. 1999; p. 7
Alternative Medicine: Expanding Medical Horizons; NIH pub. 94-066. Washington DC, US Government Printing Office, 1994. Current publications available from the OAM Clearing House (Toll Free number 1-888-644-6226) and their Internet Website http://www.altmed.od.nih.gov
Rand, William Lee; http://www.reiki.org/reikinews/reiki24.html
Brewitt, B., Vittetoe, T, and Hartwell, B. "The Efficacy of Reiki Hands-On Healing: Improvements in spleen and nervous system function as quantified by electrodermal screening". Alternative Therapies, July 1997, Vol.3, No.4, pg.89
Krieger, D. The Therapeutic Touch. New Jersey; Prentice-Hall, 1979
Krieger, D. Living the Therapeutic Touch. New York; Dodd, Mead & Co. 1987
American Holistic Nurses' Association, P.O. Box 2130, Flagstaff, AZ 86003-2130, USA; Tel: (800)278-2462; Fax: (520)526-2752; e-mail: ahna-flag@flaglink.com; website: http://www.ahna.org
Wetzel, Wendy M.S.N., R.N., "Reiki Healing: A physiologic Perspective", Journal of Holistic Nursing, Vol.7, No.1, 1989
Barnett, Libby and Chambers, Maggie; Reiki Energy Medicine. Vermont; Healing Arts Press, 1996
Motz, Julie. Hands of Life. New York; Bantam Books, 1998
The BRN Report, Volume 13, No.1, Spring 2000; http://www.m.ca.gov

Stress and Your Health
by Pat Cougar, R.N., Reiki Master & David M. Pierce, C.Ht.

With our busy lives, many of us have begun to accept stress as a natural part of life. Not all stress is bad. Low levels of stress can motivate us to move forward, take action or accomplish goals. We expect some anxiety when there are changes in our life such as the birth of a child, moving, changing jobs or starting back to school. Eventually, due either to the cumulative effects of continuous lower levels of stress, or a traumatically stressful incident, we can reach a point where stress becomes distress.

When our mental and emotional distress continues and increases in severity, most of us start noticing physical symptoms. Headaches, fatigue, muscle aches, disturbances in sleep, and gastrointestinal symptoms, are just a few problems which can occur. We now know that several major health problems, such as heart disease and cancer, are related to stress levels. The functioning of our immune system is greatly affected as well.

As experiencing some stress is unavoidable, stress management becomes the goal. Prevention is the key in successfully managing our stress and maintaining our physical and mental well-being. Taking time each day for moderate exercise, as well as time to be peaceful, better enables us to handle daily stressors. Setting priorities, allowing yourself to put some things "on the back burner", developing awareness of your "thought habits" - changing negative thoughts to positive thinking, and humor, are all things that contribute to positive and healthful stress management. We now also know that maintaining your "spiritual health" is a vital part of living a healthy, well balanced life.

If you find that you are having difficulty lowering your stress levels, seek support. Talking with family, friends and counselors can help. Take a class that teaches you ways to manage your own daily stress. Examples of these classes would be such things as yoga, tai chi, biofeedback, self-hypnosis, meditation, or energy work such as Reiki.

Don't wait until a major physical symptom or disease takes you to a medical doctor. Be active in your own well-being. Be around to celebrate life.

(from: http://www.dpierce.com/pat/reiki/reikiarticle.htm)

Stress and Your Health

2008-08-17T22:41:00.000-04:00

by Pat Cougar, R.N., Reiki Master & David M. Pierce, C.Ht.

Don't wait until a major physical symptom or disease takes you to a medical doctor. Be active in your own well-being. Be around to celebrate life.

A Sampling and Overview of Reiki and "Hands-On" Healing Research

2008-08-17T22:15:00.000-04:00

Compiled by Pat Cougar R.N., Reiki Master

Moss, Thelma, Ph.D. The Body Electric. New York; St. Martin's Press, 1979
Cahill, Matthew, et al; Nurses Handbook of Alternative & Complementary Therapies. Springhouse Corp. 1999; p. 7
Alternative Medicine: Expanding Medical Horizons; NIH pub. 94-066. Washington DC, US Government Printing Office, 1994. Current publications available from the OAM Clearing House (Toll Free number 1-888-644-6226) and their Internet Website http://www.altmed.od.nih.gov
Rand, William Lee; http://www.reiki.org/reikinews/reiki24.html
Brewitt, B., Vittetoe, T, and Hartwell, B. "The Efficacy of Reiki Hands-On Healing: Improvements in spleen and nervous system function as quantified by electrodermal screening". Alternative Therapies, July 1997, Vol.3, No.4, pg.89
Krieger, D. The Therapeutic Touch. New Jersey; Prentice-Hall, 1979
Krieger, D. Living the Therapeutic Touch. New York; Dodd, Mead & Co. 1987
American Holistic Nurses' Association, P.O. Box 2130, Flagstaff, AZ 86003-2130, USA; Tel: (800)278-2462; Fax: (520)526-2752; e-mail: ahna-flag@flaglink.com; website: http://www.ahna.org
Wetzel, Wendy M.S.N., R.N., "Reiki Healing: A physiologic Perspective", Journal of Holistic Nursing, Vol.7, No.1, 1989
Barnett, Libby and Chambers, Maggie; Reiki Energy Medicine. Vermont; Healing Arts Press, 1996
Motz, Julie. Hands of Life. New York; Bantam Books, 1998
The BRN Report, Volume 13, No.1, Spring 2000; http://www.m.ca.gov

Long-Term Effects of Energetic Healing on Symptoms of Psychological Depression and Self-Perceived Stress

2008-08-17T22:00:00.000-04:00

Reiki in the News: University of Maryland Medical Center

2008-08-14T16:57:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 5, 2007
Contact: Cindy Rivers crivers@umm.edu 410-328-8778
Sharon Boston sboston@umm.edu 410-328-8919

SHOCK TRAUMA OFFERS ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT

Patients Can Have Reiki, Music Therapy and Acupuncture in Addition to Medication

The University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center, known for state-of-the-art medicine and high-tech advances in patient care, is now teaming with the University of Maryland Center for Integrative Medicine to offer some ancient, low-tech options to help patients manage their pain. These include Reiki (pronounced “ray-kee”), a Japanese energy therapy, and Chinese acupuncture. In addition, the two centers are collaborating on a study looking into the potential benefits of acupuncture for trauma patients.

“Pain management in trauma patients can be challenging because many of the medications have side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, and the medicines do not always provide adequate pain relief,” explains Rick Dutton, M.D., chief of trauma anesthesiology at the University of Maryland Medical Center and associate professor of anesthesiology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.

He adds, “For years we’ve known that emotions can affect how patients perceive pain. Trauma patients, in particular, often feel additional stress and loss of control because their injuries come unexpectedly. By offering these complementary therapies, we hope to give patients more options for relaxation and stress relief, which can help with pain control and healing.”

Shock Trauma patients have been offered acupuncture as part of their pain management for more than a year. Trained acupuncturists from the Center for Integrative Medicine have been coming to Shock Trauma several times a week to provide acupuncture to patients who request it. With positive feedback from patients, researchers from Shock Trauma and the Center for Integrative Medicine decided to design a study to see if there was a way to measure acupuncture’s potential benefit for these patients.

“Shock Trauma patients who have received acupuncture as part of their pain management have reported significant drops in their pain scores; now we want to see if we can quantify the percentage of that change. We will also investigate the impact of acupuncture on chemicals in the blood that are markers for pain,” says Lixing Lao, M.D., Ph.D., a licensed acupuncturist and director of the Program in Traditional Chinese Medicine Research at the University of Maryland Center for Integrative Medicine. Dr. Lao is also a professor of family and community medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.

As part of the acupuncture research, 30 patients will be randomly selected to receive acupuncture, in addition to their regular care, on three consecutive days following surgery. The researchers will evaluate how much narcotic pain medicine these patients require in the first three days after surgery compared to 30 other patients with similar injuries, randomly selected to receive only conventional care after surgery.

The patients’ pain scores and blood samples will also be compared. The investigators plan to track biomarkers for pain and inflammation. These chemical measurements will include inflammatory cytokines, stress hormones such as cortisol and neurotransmitters such as beta-endorphins.

Another complementary therapy offered at Shock Trauma is Reiki, which is part of a field known as energy medicine. According to the National Institutes of Health’s National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, during the therapy, the Reiki practitioner “places his or her hands on or near the person receiving treatment with intent to transmit ‘ki,’ which is believed to be a life-force energy.” In fact, the word Reiki means “universal life energy.”

“Reiki is a Japanese technique of relaxation that works similarly to acupuncture, in that you are releasing and moving energy,” explains Donna Audia, R.N., a nurse on Shock Trauma’s pain management team and a certified Reiki master. “By using Reiki with trauma patients, we are not only helping them to relax, we’re also making them active participants in their own healing, and that can be very empowering.”

Reaction from trauma patients has been positive, with most requesting follow-up treatments. In fact, many family members ask to be a part of the Reiki session. A group of volunteers trained in Reiki now visits Shock Trauma regularly. The University of Maryland Medical Center is the only facility in the country offering Reiki to trauma patients, although it has also been used to treat people with cancer and other illnesses.

“We find that Reiki promotes a feeling of calmness and well-being,” explains Audia. “Patients who have received Reiki therapy tell us that they feel more relaxed and that their pain sometimes decreases. In some patients, heart and breathing rates actually slow down.”

Shock Trauma’s pain management team has also offered music therapy, where specially trained musicians play for patients. A practitioner from the Center for Integrative Medicine has also brought crystal bowls to play for patients as part of sound therapy.

“In the same way that we know trauma patients benefit from having pastoral care, social workers, counselors and psychiatrists, we see these complementary therapies as another option we can offer our patients to help them in their recovery,” says Dr. Dutton.

“Caring for critically ill patients goes beyond just managing their pain, we also want to help them get back to a normal life,” says Thomas M. Scalea, M.D., physician-in-chief at the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center. “Acupuncture and Reiki are examples of our commitment to treating the whole person, and we are interested to see how these therapies may benefit trauma patients.” Dr. Scalea is also professor of surgery and director of the Program in Trauma at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.

Shock Trauma, located at the University of Maryland Medical Center in downtown Baltimore, cares for more than 7,500 injured patients each year. It serves as the Primary Adult Resource Center for Maryland's emergency medical services system, providing the state’s highest level of trauma care. The center’s full name, the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, honors Dr. R Adams Cowley who pioneered the concept of the “golden hour,” the idea that patients who receive specialized treatment within the first hour after a traumatic injury are more likely to have better outcomes.

The University of Maryland Center for Integrative Medicine, located at Kernan Hospital, is a National Institutes of Health “Center of Excellence” for research in complementary and alternative medicine. It was the first program in a major U.S. academic health center to conduct research as well as offer patients care that integrates complementary therapies.

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For patient inquiries, call 1-800-492-5538.

Animal Reiki Misconceptions

2008-08-03T17:52:00.000-04:00

Misconception 1: When giving Reiki treatment to an animal, the practitioner manipulates energy flow through the animal.

Practitioners do not consider themselves vets, so would never call the animals "patients" and try to diagnose the health problem. Second, Reiki people are not "healers," but rather, "practitioners". This is an important distinction. Practitioners first ask permission of the "client" or animal, asking if he or she would like to participate in a Reiki session. Then practitioners set their intention that they are open to facilitate the flow of energy for the highest good of the animal, for whatever the animal is open to receive, or nothing at all (it is completely up to the animal to receive the energy). The healing process is completely up to the animal and Reiki, the practitioner simply facilitates the energy flow.

Practitioners, as mentioned above, do not diagnose, and in fact, do not need to know what the health issue is. The nature of the energy is that it creates and supports energetic balance as a whole for the animal (in other words, on all levels: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual). In a sick animal, the illness would be considered, energetically, to be an imbalance of some kind. By setting one's intention and then sitting in a meditative Reiki space, the practitioner simply creates a possibility of "rebalancing", that the animal then either chooses or doesn't choose to take part in.

There is no manipulation of energy beyond setting the mental intention to become an empty vessel through which Reiki can flow to the animal, if the animal is accepting. A practitioner don't "send" the energy here or there, or "heal" this or that problem. We simply create a space where healing possibilities exist.

Misconception 2: Sessions should not last longer than 20 minutes, as it might exhaust the animal or cause lethargy, vomiting or other harm.

The animal is always in charge of the length of treatment, and will tell the practitioner when they are finished by moving away and becoming active again after a restful state. This being said, for most animals, the average length of treatment is 30 - 60 minutes. The energy cannot exhaust the animal, as you can't "overdo" Reiki: once again, Reiki works only to support energetic balance within the animal, in whatever amount each unique animal is open to. Reiki is nothing you can force on the animal. Reiki can never do harm, including causing something like lethargy and/or vomiting.

Suggested Treatment Programs

2008-08-03T17:45:00.001-04:00

Although sometimes healing can be seen in one or two treatments, for continued health and well-being, all animals benefit most from a regularly scheduled program of Reiki. Below are listed the programs that have been found most beneficial for horse, cat, dog, small animal, and bird clients.

EQUINE, CANINE, AND FELINE REIKI:
For horses in full training (endurance, dressage, etc.), working, agility, or show dogs, and show cats: Begin with a series of four treatments on consecutive days, then once a week or every other week for maintenance. Daily treatments suggested on the most demanding of days.

For horses in rehab and dogs and cats recovering from injury/illness: Begin with a series of at least four treatments on consecutive days, followed by once or twice a week until recovery.

For horses in retirement, and senior dogs and cats: Begin with a series of four treatments on consecutive days, followed by once a week or every other week for maintenance.

For horses, dogs, and cats nearing their transition: Begin with a series of treatments on consecutive days, followed by a few times a week or as needed for support in this process.

SMALL ANIMAL/AVIAN REIKI:
Health Maintenance: Begin with a series of four treatments on consecutive days, followed by once a week or every other week for maintenance.

Recovery from illness/injury: Daily treatment or as often as needed until recovery.

Senior animals: Begin with a series of four treatments on consecutive days, followed by once a week or as needed for maintenance.

Nearing their transition: Daily treatments or as needed for support with this process.

Note: While Reiki is a powerful healing system on its own, it is also a wonderful complement to other therapies that may be helping the animal recover. It is not meant as a substitute for veterinary care. Always consult your veterinarian about the best course of medical treatment for your animal.

Distant Treatments

2008-08-03T17:43:00.000-04:00

Distant Healing is very effective and can be preferable to hands-on treatments in some instances.

Some animals may live too far away for hands-on treatments. Others may be extremely small, fearful of strangers, old and fragile, or close to death and may be better able to relax and absorb Reiki distantly. For people with very busy schedules, alternating distant Reiki treatments and in-person treatments are a great way to be able to give your animal the benefits of Reiki more conveniently; distant treatments are quite cost-effective and can help to stretch available resources for treatments. Distant treatments are also quick to schedule: in emergency situations, we can usually offer a distant treatment within a day of being contacted. Similarly, if an animal seems to be coming down with something or needs additional support between treatments, distant healing will provide what is needed.

Distant Reiki offers the same benefits as hands-on Reiki: physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. For example, a distant Reiki treatment can provide pain relief for various illnesses and injuries, accelerated healing from surgery, emotional healing, including healing for behavioral issues, prevention of illness or accelerated healing of an illness, and can greatly ease the transition to death. Distant Reiki is also helpful in healing family situations that may involve your animal and in helping human companions with the process of an animal's death. A distant treatment can also be sent to heal a traumatic event in your animal's past.

After a distant treatment, results can usually be seen in the next 24-48 hours. Although some conditions may require regular treatments to complete the healing process, dramatic shifts in healing often occur almost immediately.

In Person Reiki Treatments

2008-08-03T17:42:00.000-04:00

It is recommended that Reiki treatments given in person are best given while in the home, barn, or playplace where the animal lives, if possible. Animals are able to relax and receive these treatments much more successfully when they are comfortable and in familiar environments. Notice that the term "hands-on" treatments aren't used. This is because it is important to allisonjoy to ask permission of the animal first, and allows the animal to determine the course of the treatment. Many animals enjoy hands-on treatments, and in these cases, it is important to use the hand positions the animal guides you to. For other animals, treatments are much more comfortable from a few feet away, or even from across the room or paddock. Whether given directly hands-on or from across the room, treatments are equally effective. Most importantly, treatments should always be adjusted to fit each animal's preference.

Approaching Animals with Reiki

2008-08-03T17:39:00.000-04:00

The approach is key when working with animals and Reiki. Animals appreciate being given control of the treatment: in other words, being allowed to say "yes" or "no" to the treatment as well as determining the way the treatment will unfold. This means the practitioner needs to follow a few basic rules to be successful in the treatment:

Always begin by asking permission of the animal directly OR by setting your intention that you are open to facilitate the healing process for the animal for as much energy as they are open to receive, or none at all (this is a form of permission).
It's best not to initiate hands-on contact when working with an animal. Always allow the animal to be the one to initiate contact.
Allow the animal to move freely in the treatment space. Pay attention to what your animal is telling you by their behavior about how he or she wants you to give the treatment.
Animals appreciate a passive and open approach.Do not "beam" or "send" energy to the animal or to a specific health issue the animal has that you "think" needs healing. Instead, try "offering" the energy in a non-assertive manner. Imagine you are creating a Reiki bubble around yourself which the animal can move into and out of freely, or build an imaginary "Reiki bridge" which the animal can cross if he or she wants to participate in the healing treatment. In this same vein, your body language should match this passive intention: in other words, don't initiate and hold eye contact, don't make yourself "big" and dominant in your body position. For example, try to stay on the same physical level with the animal and remain in a non-threatening pose -ideally, don't stand up over a small animal on ground level or have your hands up and palms facing out like a predator about to pounce.
Let go of your expectations about how an animal should behave during the treatment (they usually do not behave like humans, lying down motionless for 60 minutes). The typical treatment consists of an ebb and flow of hands-on/short distance Reiki as well as short periods of movement and relaxation. Also, let go of your expectations about what healing result the animal should manifest.
After you finish the treatment, always thank the animal for participation in the treatment.

allisonjoy in Boston: an offering

2008-08-03T16:34:00.001-04:00

THIS WEEKEND!!!

Reiki Treatments with allisonjoy!
humbly, powerfully, and lovingly serving women of color,
the LGBTQ community, and beloved pet companions

saturday, august 9th
&
sunday, august 10th

visit: www.allisonjoyreiki.com for more information
**Sessions limited!!! please schedule an appointment ASAP**
sliding scale fees available

---------------------------------------------------

Peace Beautiful Boston Spirits,

i hope that this finds you rejoicing in summertime, adventuring in the sunshine, and discovering countless opportunities to grow your laughter.

this upcoming weekend, Saturday, August 9th and Sunday, August 10th will find me in your city to visit chosen family and to offer the most precious gift of Reiki to the Boston community.

Reiki is a holistic energy practice that works on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual levels to help relieve pain & stress, replenish your energy, restore balance in your body, and renew peace of mind.

if you are a woman, a person of color, LGBTQ identified...if you are tired, or stressed...if you feel stuck or sick or sad...if you'd like to support and maintain your healthy lifestyle...i am lovingly inviting you to welcome this beautiful healing practice into your life.

blessings & light abundant,

allisonjoy

Reiki for Pets & Animals

2008-08-03T15:45:00.010-04:00

"Animals are the greatest teachers. Without being overbearing or pedantic, they seem to show us ways of professing on our paths with kindness, strength, and humor. It's only fitting that we reciprocate in kind. The Reiki healing system is perfect for this as it carries with it respectful acknowledgement of animals' expansive capabilities. Masters of energetic integration, animals intuitively understand that we all exist on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels simultaneously. With this understanding, they are naturals at accepting Reiki into their lives."

~Cheryl Schwartz, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

allisonjoy's puppy, Cornbread, enjoying a Reiki treatment.

allisonjoy is deeply committed to the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well being of all her clients, including pets and animals, and is dedicated to The Animal Practitioner Code of Ethics to guide her treatments. She works in partnership with Sit. Stay. Play! in Union, NJ (please click here for more information), and is also available for home visits.

Reiki for Animals is a form of healing that helps harmonize the mind, body, and soul of your pet. It is a gentle but powerful healer, and can be used as a treatment for relaxation as well as a tool for releasing negative emotions and limitations. It will balance your dog's energy, organs, and glands. Reiki for Animals has proven to strengthen immune systems, relieve pain, clears toxins, and enhances personal awareness while relaxing your pet. Reiki can treat many ailments that may be currently inhibiting your companion, whether noticeable to you or not. It can reduce stress, relieve pain, headaches, stomach upsets, asthma, back problems, sinus/ respiratory problems, canine hip dysplasia, anxiety and more. After your pet's first session, you may see instant results of using Reiki.

For animals who are healthy, Reiki helps to maintain their health, enhances relaxation and provides an emotional sense of peace and contentment.
For animals who are ill, Reiki is a wonderful healing method as well as a safe complement to Western Medicine, Chinese Medicine, homeopathy, flower essences, and all other forms of healing. For example, Reiki can reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, aide in the swift recovery from surgery, support an acupuncture treatment, and enhance the effects of flower essences, such as rescue remedy.
For dying animals, Reiki is a powerful yet gentle way to provide comfort, relief from pain, fear, and anxiety, and to ease the transition to death.

Animal sessions need not be hands-on" treatments. The practitioner always asks permission of the animal first, and allows the animal to determine the course of the treatment. Many animals enjoy hands-on treatments, but for other animals, treatments are much more comfortable from a few feet away, or even from across the room or paddock. Whether given directly hands-on or from across the room, treatments are equally effective. Most importantly, treatments should always be adjusted to fit each animal's preference. Since Reiki can also be sent effectively from a distance, this means it can be used on animals that are skittish or aggressive without distressing them or risking injury to them, their keepers, or the Healer herself. In time, and with regular treatment, even the most aggressive animals may experience Reiki's calming effects. Often the animal will enter a state of deep relaxation or sleep. Reiki by itself or in conjunction with combinations of professional veterinary care, obedience training, and behavioral training can help...

reduce aggressive behavior
restore range of motion
manage and reduce pain
support chemotherapy patients
ease separation anxiety
calm your pet before flying/travel
fortify your pet before surgery
expedite recovery after surgery
rejuvenate working animals
center & ground animals for competition

Reiki is ideal for use with animals because it is gentle and noninvasive. It doesn't cause stress, discomfort, or pain, and yet yields powerful results. Animals love Reiki; they seem intuitively to understand its power to heal. All animals, whether shelter rescues, service animals, or in happy homes, can benefit from the healing aspects of Reiki, and will thank you for providing the gift of healing!

Click here for more information on...

Approaching Animals with Reiki

In-Person Treatments

Distant Treatments

Suggested Treatment Programs

Animal Reiki Misconceptions

cornbread loves Reiki!

~Reiki for the LGBTQQI community!

2008-06-01T04:03:00.005-04:00

happy pride month!

strength & solidarity with the beautiful & powerful LGBT community & all queer people of color who live boldly, survive beautifully, tell and preserve our stories with magic and laughter, brilliantly build ourselves and each other as chosen family with love, compassion, and FIERCE overflowing (work it, y'all).

in celebration, to claim pride all year everyday of the year, and to honor our zee/her/history i will be offering discounted Reiki treatments for the LGBT community for the rest of the year! yup. for the rest of the year. (yay!)

When scheduling a session with me, just mention "QPOC" in the email, and you'll get $25 dollars off your first session (that's over a 30% discount)!!!

in my practice, i have focused on the queer of color LGBT community for many reasons:

- an absence of access to quality health care, especially including holistic services

- an absence of compassion and understanding of LGBTQQI issues & concerns in mainstream medicine, especially trans medical knowledge

- to resist the way our communities are criminalized, to heal from racism/homophobia/heterosexism, and to replenish and (re)claim our strength

- the daily stress and mental/emotional toll it takes surviving and thriving as of color & queer (and/or low income, different abilitied, immigrant, etc)

- i strongly & passionately believe in serving my communities in anyway i can, and i believe that to do so in the areas of physical/emotional/mental/spiritual health is a powerful and loving act of liberation

i have also found that Reiki is an especially wonderful treatment for all trans-identified folks. it is a respectful & non-invasive process, and those who may be going through transition, or who may not be entirely comfortable with their bodies yet are not asked to take off their clothes. the practitioner can also hold her/his/zee hands a few inches above the clients body if they are sensitive to touch. it is necessary that a client feel as comfortable as possible during their treatment!

in addition, Reiki is an especially loving act for people who are survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, or violence (i.e. queer bashing). it helps to restore balance, peace for the mind & emotions, assists in clearing away negative toxins/blockages that can build up in the body after violence. Again, it is a gentle, compassionate, and respectful practice, as practicioners do not need to physically touch clients, especially people who are not comfortable with touch or their bodies being handled.

as queer people of color, our ancestry, our stories, the brilliant things we've created, our amazing contributions to this world, the beautiful communities we continue to build are not honored enough...not acknowledged or cared for enough. this is my gift to you, and i offer it in love and solidarity so that we may claim our strength, take part in each other's healing, and encourage one another to shape our most bold and powerful visions of ourselves.

this cannot be combined with any other offer, and does not apply when sliding scale rates are considered.

~Reiki in NurseWeek.com

2008-05-25T08:11:00.001-04:00

(see original article here:
http://www.nurseweek.com/news/features/01-05/reiki.html)

Healing touch
Practitioners of Reiki harness human energy
to restore body's balance
By Karen J. Coates
May 14, 2001

Soft music paints the background as hands rest gently on a head of hair. Eyes are closed, bodies still, breathing slow. A sleepiness bathes the room.

Such is the tranquil picture of Reiki, an ancient healing technique based on the idea of universal energy—that pain and disease result when energy is blocked or imbalanced. Practitioners place their hands on a patient’s clothed body, channeling energy to spots in need, through processes called attunements. Energy flows through receptors, called chakras, in the crown, forehead, throat, heart, stomach, abdomen and groin.

"It’s no more than that," said Meg Siddheshwari Sullivan, MS, RN. "You literally put your hands on the person and the energy pours through." Reiki is used for any ailment, including stress. "It speeds up any healing that’s going to happen anyway."

Sullivan, so enamored of Reiki, left her hospital nursing job and established the Reiki Center of the East Bay in Oakland, Calif. While many nurses incorporate Reiki into allopathic work, Sullivan does the reverse.

Clients say Reiki refreshes their entire being—physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. That attention to the whole attracts many nurses who seek more than what Western medicine offers. But Reiki, measured more by passion than proof, often garners skepticism in the allopathic world. It’s also not widely known or understood.

Several years ago, Sullivan’s daughter suffered constant colds and flu. "We started off with Western medications," she said, but they didn’t remove fluid behind the ears. A pediatric nurse tried Reiki, and also treated Sullivan’s husband, who had asthma. "I didn’t notice any dramatic change in them," Sullivan said. "However, I got jealous." So she tried it and fell in love. "This is what I got into nursing for."

Reiki didn’t cure her daughter, later diagnosed with Candida and treated with diet, but Sullivan was hooked. She became a Reiki master in 1991, although hour-long sessions were difficult in a hospital. "I’d want to give a whole Reiki treatment, and thatvirtually impossible in a nursing setting." So she left.

Sullivan, like many, is both patient and practitioner. Advocates particularly value the ability to heal themselves through Reiki, which makes them better caregivers.

Kelly Larsen, RN, uses Reiki privately and in an Arizona physician’s office. "In nursing, I was completely drained at the end of a shift," she said. "I felt I gave and gave and gave, and at the end of a shift I was sucked dry. This is the main reason I left hospital nursing.

"Once I started doing Reiki and learned to let the energy flow through me while I worked, I no longer had that problem. At the end of a shift I now feel happy and balanced. Reiki has reinstated and enhanced my love of nursing."

Many nurses, such as Robin Blevens, RN, a women’s health nurse practitioner, treat patients and co-workers. "We run a pretty fast-paced clinic," so she performs Reiki as time permits. It is best as a complement, she stresses. "It’s not a cure-all. It’s not going to make you live to 200 years."

At first, Blevens didn’t think Reiki would jibe with her community. "I live in southwest Missouri, which is the Bible Belt. So I thought that’s probably never going to work." Then an herbal store posted a flyer for classes, and Blevens became a master.

She also offers Reiki through a tanning salon—and chuckles about the poster that advertises Reiki for mind, body and soul. A nearby church responded with a similar ad for healing—through Jesus.

Advocates call Reiki spiritual, but not religious. "There’s a magnificence, there’s a subtlety, there’s a sweetness," said Vicki Slater, Ph.D., RN. "It’s like tasting a rich dessert for which you’ve been hungering for years."

While Western medicine tends to divide mind and body, Reiki unites. "I always knew that I was not just body," Slater said. "When you get the attunements, it feels like you are being imbued with divine energy." But she doesn’t define that. "Each person has their own explanation of the divine. It is not my place to give them words."

Kit Keeley, a critical care RN and health and safety officer at Bastyr University, describes Reiki as universal energy—not religion. She places her hands above another person’s, demonstrating force akin to two magnets. That’s the human energy field, she said.

Human cells have north and south poles, Slater said. "The human being is an electromagnetic field." Reiki, like an "energetic Roto-Rooter," rids the field of debris and allows energy to flow freely.

Practitioners can perform distance Reiki by focusing their mind. Slater’s mentor, Joan Furman, MSN, RN, a certified holistic nurse, said Reiki "will basically transcend time and space." When she teaches, she puts half the class in one room, half in another. "It’s astounding. They always come back in with their eyes wide open."

In performing Reiki, practitioners visualize or draw symbols, which originally appeared in meditations to Mikao Usui, founder of the Japanese style. "They’re powerful and they’re sacred symbols," said Sullivan, whose students burn the drawings once memorized. However, not everyone keeps them secret.

Symbols, divine energy, distance healing—not exactly the stuff of hard science. "I understand the skepticism," Furman said. "Coming from a strictly Western mind, that doesn’t make any sense."

Some are trying to prove energy techniques scientifically. In the August 1998 Healing Touch Newsletter, James Oschman, Ph.D., and Nora Oschman wrote that sensitive instruments can detect the body’s minute energy fields. "Concepts of ‘healing energy’ have gradually swung from suspicion and ridicule to respectability," the authors said.

There are no universal protocols for measuring Reiki, according to an April 2000 article in Holistic Nursing Practice, which makes it difficult to research. But the University of Michigan’s Complementary and Alternative Medicine Research Center recently received a grant to study Reiki’s effects on diabetic patients.

Some states have tried to regulate Reiki. In 1999, the New York State Board for Massage Therapy reversed its policy that requires massage licenses for Reiki practitioners. The Florida Board of Massage Therapy recently ruled that Reiki falls under its jurisdiction, but Ruth Stiehl, Ph.D., RN, executive director of the Florida Board of Nursing, said it remains unclear how or whether the ruling affects nurses using Reiki.

Some advocates argue that Reiki is spiritual and protected under the First Amendment. Others say Reiki doesn’t fit the definition of massage. "Some boards are trying to regulate it, but it’s very inappropriate," said Betty Stadler, MSN, FNP, RN, a certified holistic nurse who teaches in Tennessee.

Stadler notes that skepticism is common among physicians unfamiliar with holistic practices. "You can’t put them down if it’s not been in their education," she said.

For greater understanding, the White House Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medicine Policy is hearing testimony on various techniques. "These are town hall meetings," said Stephen Groft, PharmD, executive director of the commission, which will make governmental recommendations regarding complementary and alternative medicine.

Stadler also advises people to police themselves. Sometimes patients, so eager to be cured, abandon other medications. Clients should check practitioners’ credentials and avoid advertisements for cure-alls, she said. "That’s a red flag. That can be dangerous."

Ultimately, Reiki works for some—with open minds. Nurses at HealthSouth New England Rehabilitation Hospital in Massachusetts started a Reiki program several years ago, and tried to maintain strict records of its results, said Suzanne Rogers, RN. "I don’t attempt to collect all that data," she said. "You can’t prove it that way, so why get yourself all worked up about it?"

Experience is proof for her. "I don’t care who laughs at me," she said. "It works."

~The Effectiveness of Distance Reiki

2008-05-11T14:32:00.000-04:00

by Keith Zang

Reiki is a form of energetic hands-on healing that originated in Japan. Most people know and understand Reiki as an "in-person" form of treatment, treating everything from stress to helping to speed healing after surgery. It is increasingly being utilized in hospitals throughout the world and Reiki volunteer programs are becoming recognized as viable accompaniment programs with traditional western therapies. But what many people don't realize or have much faith in is the ability of Reiki practitioners to send Reiki energy to anyone, anywhere in the world and get great results doing so.

Reiki is considered a spiritual form of energy, but physical, tangible energy nonetheless. In our scientific society we are just now beginning to understand Reiki as a more detectable form of life force based energy, and not so much as some sort of intangible, etheric or "magical" energy. Before radio or television, to talk about such things and possibilities would have been considered impossible, fanciful, or even considered witches magic. But as the understanding of radio and television waves became understood, it soon lost all of those qualities and became firmly rooted into scientific fact. I believe that this also will begin to happen with Reiki energy. As we develop machines sensitive enough or in tune to measure and quantify it, it will lose a lot of its mystery and become firmly rooted in western and eastern medicine.

As radio and television waves can be sent over distances, so can Reiki. There is a bit of a difference with the Reiki energy, as it is more spiritually guided, and the senders and receivers are often human. But Reiki can also be used within the traditional animal-vegetable-mineral kingdoms as well as used in the spiritual realms to help lower vibrational energies achieve higher vibrational status. But for the sake of this article, I am going to concentrate on the sending and receiving from humans to humans.

Most of the evidence that exists for distance Reiki is anecdotal, but does have merit. I have been doing distance Reiki since 1998 and have done over 1000 distance sessions, many professionally. Often times I don't know anything about the person I am working with other than their name and their location on the planet. I try to keep it that way so that I am working with a clean slate, and no preconceived notions. Mutual times are arranged usually via e-mail or phone. At that time the receiver of the Reiki energies will find a comfortable place to relax, put on some soothing music, and perhaps have subdued lighting and candles. I have found this to be the most receptive state where much can be accomplished. Then a half hour or hour is spent sending the recipient Reiki energies, just as if I was there with them. The session is done just as an in-person session would be completed, starting at the top of the head and working down to the feet on both sides of the body. Sometimes a surrogate may be used such as a human shaped doll. Envisioning the person shrunk down to smaller than normal size but in front of me is also effective. Either way can work but it is recommended for anyone starting out to use a surrogate. Any stuffed animal that has 2 arms and legs, torso and head will work fine.

The responses received after finishing the session and the subsequent writings or discussion with the client over the phone are varied and often times extremely positive. There have been many occasions when the recipient felt as if I was right next to them doing the session in person. They could feel my hands on their body, extremely warm and healing. This happens when a good connection is established with someone, and I am clearly able to discern the areas of the body that need balancing and healing. Others feel sensations such as warmth or coolness, see colors, feel light or heavy, or simply fall asleep. Sometimes after only one session the recipient feels much better and after several days of the body continuing to heal itself, the chief complaint is gone, and balance has been restored, alleviating the condition. Often times, though, several sessions may be needed to allow the body continued exposure to the energies to affect complete healing.

Throughout the many sessions that have been done, I have received feedback about complete healing of chronic back pain, old traumas, speed of healing after surgeries, deep, undisturbed sleep, relief from chronic pain, relief from side effects of chemotherapy treatments, and many other maladies. I believe that there is nothing that Reiki can't help. As it is spiritually guided life force energy, it is boundless energy, able to help mankind with any physical, emotional, or spiritual illness. Reiki allows the practitioner to be the conduit of the energy to send it to the recipient, so that the awesome healing potential of the human body can be realized. When energy blockages are removed, and powerful Reiki energies are applied, the body can heal itself of anything. This is one reason why it works so well as an accompaniment to western medical therapies. Integration of both methods creates a very powerful healing environment.

Distance Reiki can be utilized by anyone that has received their Reiki 1 attunement. Some people believe that it is only possible after a Reiki 2 attunement, but I have found with many of the students I have taught, that they are very willing and able to send Reiki via distance at any point in their development. As with any other skill, the more it is utilized, the better the practitioner will become. Skills such as medical intuitiveness will come quickly to most that practice on a regular basis, especially with people whose conditions are unknown to them. The key is to relax, let the energy flow, and trust what you are feeling and seeing. After a number of sessions are completed, the practitioner will begin to feel different areas of dis-ease within the recipient's body, and will begin to recognize the areas that need work the most. For some, this intuitiveness will be developed to fully scan and instantly know the areas that need the most attention just as the practitioner/recipient connection has been made.

Time and distance are no longer a factor to help others with their healing. With distance Reiki, wonderful results can be attained. It can be done anywhere, and at any time. Mutual times do not need to be set up, but it is important to get permission from the person either verbally, or through their higher spiritual self before sending the Reiki energies. Practice is the key. The more it is practiced, the better the practitioner will become as their talents develop. Intuitive listening and trusting is a key part of the distance session. Also, as with in person sessions, distance sessions can deplete your energies. Replacing those energies is also important for longevity and health of the practitioner. Meditation and exercise can help replace those energies so that more distance work can be accomplished with maximum efficiency. If you are a Reiki practitioner, trust your abilities as you trust in the source of those energies. The creator has given mankind this gift for unlimited healing, no matter what the physical distance between the practitioner and the recipient.

___________________
Keith Zang is the author of "Touching The Light" due out in January of 2005. He owns and operates the Moonglow Enlightenment Center in Elma, WA. (http://www.moonglowonline.com/) as a Reiki Master/Instructor, spiritual medium, and metaphysical practitioner. Keith is also the Community Health Director for the Quinault Indian Nation and Faculty member and Masters student at the College Of Metaphysical Studies. He can be contacted at relax@moonglowonline.com. This article is copyrighted 2004 by Keith Zang.

~Reiki in Chicago: extended stay until May 4th!

2008-04-27T20:47:00.001-04:00

Peace Chicago folks!

i hope that you have been enjoying the beautiful weather, and have been tucking the warmth & sunlight into your pockets...i hear it's gonna get chilly again this week.

BUT, despite my aversion to cold weather, i am so happy to say that kay, cornbread, and i have extended our stay in the Chi-iL for one more week!

Seems as if the word has spread like lightning in the few short days that we've been here, and there has been such an outpouring of requests for treatments, that i just wasn't able to schedule everyone in before our original departure date. it wouldn't have felt right to not be able to offer this gift to so many people who were requesting sessions, so after a day to marinate over the pickle we found ourselves in, we made the pretty easy decision to extend our stay so that i can take a solid week to be able to offer as much as i can to the community here. i'd love to offer this gift and to connect to as many people as possible before returning home.

Appointments will be available from
Monday, April 28th - Sunday, May 4th
10:00am - 8:00pm
in Pilsen.

Please contact me via email: allisonjoyreiki@gmail.com
or phone, #646.721.0539 to schedule a session.

thanks for your love chicago!
many blessings,
allisonjoy

~Reiki Sessions in Chicago @ DePaul University! (April 23 - 24 & 26-27)

2008-04-20T14:33:00.001-04:00

Peace Beautiful Chicago Spirits,

i hope that this finds you rejoicing in springtime, adventuring in the sunshine, and discovering countless opportunities to grow your laughter.

i am so happy to say that i am back in Chicago! i can't believe it's been 8 months since my last visit...since i last walked chi-il streets, built community & friendship here, and filled my belly with this city's food. This time, i'm back to rock the stage and shake some soul with the powerful people in Mango Tribe! i hope that you can come see our show at DePaul University, 8:00pm on April 25th!

In addition to anti-oppression art, i have the great pleasure of being able to formally offer the most precious gift of Reiki while i'm here. As April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, i wanted to be able to honor the Spirits and strength of survivors. I have the opportunity to offer free sessions through the Women & Gender Studies dept. at DePaul University to students, faculty and staff, as well as people in the surrounding community, especially those who are survivors.

1/2 hour appointments will be available from
Wednesday April 23 - Thursday24, from 1:00 - 3:30pm.
if you are interested in scheduling an appointment,
please call Ann Russo at:

i do have more time to schedule additional sessions, and i am lovingly

inviting you to welcome this beautiful healing practice into your life.

i am free for treatments this weekend, saturday the 26th to sunday the 27th.

Please contact me via email: allisonjoyreiki@gmail.com or phone, #646.721.0539 if you would like to schedule a session.

For those of you unable to schedule with me for this weekend, or who would like to continue treatments with me after i leave, we can also discuss arranging distance Reiki sessions.

Looking forward to seeing & sharing with you!

blessings & light abundant,

allisonjoy

~Reiki For Survivors of Sexual Assault

2008-04-06T16:41:00.003-04:00

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Designated as Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), April brings an annual opportunity to focus awareness on sexual violence and its prevention. It is also an opportunity to highlight the efforts of individuals and agencies that provide rape crisis intervention and prevention services while offering support to sexual assault survivors, victims and their families. SAAM raises awareness of sexual violence and its prevention through special events while highlighting sexual violence as a major public health issue and reinforces the need for year-round prevention efforts.

Reiki is an especially loving act for people who are survivors of sexual assault, abuse, and other traumatic events. it helps to restore balance, peace for the mind & emotions, and assists in clearing away negative toxins/blockages that can build up in the body after violence. it's also the most non-evasive complimentary health practice, as patients are treated fully clothed, and practitioners do not need to physically touch clients, especially people who are not comfortable with touch or their bodies being handled. Client's comfortability is priority, and boundaries are lovingly respected. Here is a study that was done in Canada on the effects of Reiki for survivors of child abuse: http://www.tamarashouse.sk.ca/reiki.pdf

i will be offering free Reiki sessions at the University of DePaul in Chicago, IL for survivors in the middle of April. detailed information will be available in the upcoming posts, so please be sure to check back.

Some Resources

In New York:
The Center for Anti-Violence Education
New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault
New York Asian Women's Center
Safe Horizon
Sakhi {for South Asian Women}
The New York Gay & Lesbian Anti-Violence Project

In Chicago:
Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault
Rape Victim Advocates

please see my links on the right for additional resources & information.

~Reiki & Self Defense

2008-03-30T15:03:00.001-04:00

by: Angie M. Tarighi

Reiki Benefits lead to Self-Empowerment by providing a system of natural healing that enhances our own self-healing capabilities of body, mind and spirit. Reiki practice is a wonderful compliment to your self-defense training. Not only does it provide a wonderful meditation process, but it connects you to you, empowering you to take the necessary steps to do the right things for yourself.

In order for us to be healthy, we must balance our body, mind, emotions and spirit. When everything is in balance - health and vitality are abundant. When they are not, we see injury and illness invade our lives. Injury and illness are the physical manifestations of emotional or spiritual challenges that we have not consciously acknowledged.

Reiki Healing energy works on the illness - or the blocks in energy that flow through us - to remove it and continue a smooth flow of energy to all parts of our body & spirit.

Common Themes of Reiki Healing

Although each individual experiences Reiki differently, there are some common "themes" that present themselves in a Reiki Treatment Session. The common Reiki Benefits are:

*Connects you spiritually

*Provides techniques for meditative practice

*Creates energetic integrity

*Empowers you to utilize the full-spectrum of spiritual energy

*Addresses the cause

*Has no side-effects or contraindications

*Is non-invasive and suitable for every age and symptom

*Amplifies the homeostatic response of the body's healing systems

*Restores proper mental functioning

*Increases experiences of joy and love

*Accesses the soul's intuition

Reiki & Physical Healing

Reiki can help alleviate pain and illness on the physical plane. Reiki healing supports and helps your own body to heal itself. Reiki helps to do this by getting rid of blockages and cleansing the body of any toxins that may have been stored.

Reiki & Mental Healing

By receiving a Reiki Treatment we allow ourselves to release stress and tension. We let go of negative thoughts and replace them with more peaceful, positive concepts and attitudes. Reiki can enhance your intuitive abilities and open you to following your correct path with greater insight and awareness.

Reiki & Emotional Healing

Reiki encourages us to examine our emotional lives and acknowledge those feelings that are blocking our path to success. By letting go of negative emotions and encouraging qualities of love, care, trust and goodwill, we allow ourselves to Love our Ourselves, thereby opening ourselves to greater Love from the Universe.

By becoming attuned to Reiki energy, we can remove the emotional blocks that are keeping us from realizing our full potential. By truly becoming who we are meant to be, we increase our awareness of our environment and add another layer to our self-defense arsenal.

Angie M. Tarighi is the CEO/Founder of Women's Self-Defense Institute and EasySafety4U.com providing self defense training, education awareness & personal protection products empowering women to fight back against crime.

~Breast Cancer & Reiki

2008-03-02T11:10:00.000-05:00

By: Laura Bruno

The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2006, about 212,900 women in the U.S. will learn they have invasive breast cancer. American women have a 1 in 8 chance of developing this type of cancer at some point in their lives, and roughly 2 million have already been treated for the disease. Thankfully, death rates from breast cancer have dropped dramatically. Early detection as well as advances in chemotherapy and other treatments mean that each year yields more and more breast cancer survivors.[i]

As with any cancer, traditional treatments for breast cancer can cause their own array of health challenges. Nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and low blood cell counts often follow chemotherapy and radiation. In a recent study published in The Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Dr. Michael Hassett of Boston's Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that 16 % of breast cancer patients under age 64 required a hospital visit to manage chemotherapy side effects.[ii] Chemotherapy targets all rapidly growing cells, including white blood cells (known as neutrophils), which support the immune system. Neutropenia, meaning white blood cell counts have dropped below normal levels, lowers immune response to invaders like bacteria, viruses and fungi.[iii] Consequently, the most common and serious reason for the post-chemo hospital visits was high fever from infections. Anemia-resulting from low red blood cell count-poses additional struggles in the form of extreme fatigue.

Anti-nausea drugs, blood transfusions and lab-made white blood cell "boosters" now form part of a growing arsenal of coping strategies.[iv] But for women who feel conflicted about taking drugs in the first place, these solutions can seem too toxic or even add additional complaints. The neurtophil enhancers, for example, cause temporary bone pain as the marrow rapidly produces more cells. Leigh Leming, 54, a breast cancer survivor whose cancer later returned and metasticized, decided that this time she wanted to try something different. Unable to eat due to nausea, she now follows the advice of an Ayurvedic chef. She drinks a shot of ginger, lemon juice, and honey before each meal. "It's the only thing that keeps my food down," Leming explains. She also takes wheat grass juice to build up her blood counts, because 2 ounces of wheat grass juice contain nutrients equivalent to 4 pounds of organic produce: "The difference in my energy levels is amazing!"

A patient at St. Luke's Hospital in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Leming noticed fliers offering Reiki sessions there. Reiki (pronounced "RAY-key") is an ancient healing energy system rediscovered in the late nineteenth century by a Japanese monk named Dr. Mikao Usui. The "Rei" stands for "universal," and the "ki" refers to "life force energy" similar to "Chi" in Chinese healing or "prana" in yoga. Thus, Reiki means "universal life force energy," which works on all levels-physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. By influencing all these levels, Reiki is believed gently but dramatically to amplify people's innate abilities to heal themselves. One can perform Reiki with hands on or above the body, and even across great distances. Most people notice it as heat, tingling or a feeling of deep love and support.

Leming's friends at St. Luke's Wellness Center explained that they receive Reiki sessions prior to chemotherapy in order to offset some of their post-chemo reactions. Other patients noticed dramatic improvement in pain levels following Reiki treatments. After experiencing some of this pain relief herself-"I actually forget to take my pain pills after a Reiki session"-Leming gathered a group of patients and survivors to learn how to treat themselves with Reiki. Having received an attunement (opening of the body's natural energy paths) from a Reiki Master Teacher, they can now feel Reiki flowing through their own hands. Although her pain returns, Leming reports a greater sense of calmness and peace when dealing with pain, as well as other cancer stressors like finances and family relationships.

No formal U.S. studies have proven Reiki's effectiveness in treating cancer; however, The Canadian Breast Cancer Research Initiative recently awarded a $20,000 grant to Dr. Ahlam Mansour of the College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan. Dr. Mansour will study "the effects of Reiki on the level of anxiety, physical problems, spiritual well-being, and complete blood counts in patients undergoing their initial AC (chemotherapy)."[v] The June 1997 issue of Cancer Prevention Control shared preliminary results from a controlled study at the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, Canada. Twenty volunteers with chronic pain, including pain from cancer, received Reiki treatments from a certified Reiki Level 2 practitioner. Study supervisors used both a visual analog scale (VAS) and a Likert scale to measure pain before and after Reiki. The study found that receiving Reiki greatly improved pain levels.[vi]

Across the United States, hospitals and hospices have begun to value Reiki. In 1997, Nancy Samson, RN, BS, began coordinating a volunteer Reiki program in the radiation oncology ward at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in New Hampshire. Today, the center hosts Reiki Certification Classes and advertises 50% reimbursement of class cost for DHMC employees. [vii] The esteemed California Pacific Medical Center's Health and Healing Clinic offers Reiki, along with acupressure, nutritional therapy and yoga. [viii] Hospices increasingly offer Reiki to patients as a means of easing pain and reducing anxiety about the unknown.

Arizona hosts one of the longest relationships between Reiki and traditional cancer treatment. Sally Soderlund, RN (Support Services Coordinator for Oncology) directs the Tucson Medical Center (TMC) Reiki Clinic. The Reiki program at TMC began over 11 years ago in the Cancer Care Unit. It has since branched out to other areas of the hospital as well. Reiki practitioners at TMC usually describe Reiki as "healing energy" and work together in two person teams. They emphasize the relaxing and healing qualities of Reiki, rather than delving into metaphysics. Although some patients report spiritual experiences during Reiki sessions, volunteers explain that Reiki is a healing system, not a religion. The TMC clinic's success continues due to patient requests for repeat sessions as well as nurse reports of improved patient mood and healing rate.[ix]

The American Cancer Society regards Reiki as a "safe" complementary cancer therapy. Their website acknowledges patients' subjective reports of Reiki's ability to speed healing and increase their sense of well-being. Like massage, Reiki induces relaxation, lowers heart rate and reduces stress levels. Studies indicate that people heal better if they can remain in a low stress state. Because massage actually manipulates tissue, though, the American Cancer Society recommends avoiding areas near tumors until research shows if tissue manipulation can spread cancer cells to other parts of the body.[x] Unlike massage, Reiki involves a light touch or no touch at all: there is no tissue manipulation. Recipients remain clothed while energy flows above and into their body. For people with multiple tumor sites, Reiki offers a chance to tap into the healing power of relaxation without any contraindications.

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[i] American Cancer Society: Caner Reference Information. cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_2_1X_How_many_people_get_breast_cancer_5.asp?sitearea=

[ii] About Health and Fitness: breastcancer.about.com/

[iii] "How Cancer Can Put You at Risk of Serious Infection." Healthmonitor: July-August 2006, p. S3.

[iv] "Take Care of Yourself." Healthmonitor: July-August 2006, p. S4.

[v] Source: Office of Communications, University of Saskatchewan, Canada, usask.ca/communications/ocn/Apr24/news8.html.

[vi] Source: Olson K, Hanson J, 1997. "Using Reiki to manage pain: a preliminary report." Cancer Prevention Control 1997, June, Vol.1(2): pages 108-13.

[vii] Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center: Classes and Events. dhmc.org/dhmc/webpage.cfm?site_id=2&morg_id=0&org_id=1&sec_id=3&gsec_id=3&item_id=3

[viii] CPMC Institute for Health and Healing. cpmc.org/services/ihh/professionals/overview.html

[ix] Rand, William Lee. "Reiki in Hospitals." Reiki News Articles: The International Center for Reiki Training. reiki.org/reikinews/reiki_in_hospitals.html

[x] American Cancer Society. "Reiki" and "Massage." cancer.org/docroot/eto/content/eto_5_3x_massage.asp?sitearea=eto

Stress and Your Health

2008-02-25T12:35:00.000-05:00

by Pat Cougar, R.N., Reiki Master & David M. Pierce, C.Ht.

Don't wait until a major physical symptom or disease takes you to a medical doctor. Be active in your own well-being. Be around to celebrate life.

A Sampling and Overview of Reiki and "Hands-On" Healing Research

2008-02-25T12:33:00.000-05:00

Compiled by Pat Cougar R.N., Reiki Master

Moss, Thelma, Ph.D. The Body Electric. New York; St. Martin's Press, 1979 [BACK]
Cahill, Matthew, et al; Nurses Handbook of Alternative & Complementary Therapies. Springhouse Corp. 1999; p. 7 [BACK]
Alternative Medicine: Expanding Medical Horizons; NIH pub. 94-066. Washington DC, US Government Printing Office, 1994. Current publications available from the OAM Clearing House (Toll Free number 1-888-644-6226) and their Internet Website http://www.altmed.od.nih.gov [BACK]
Rand, William Lee; http://www.reiki.org/reikinews/reiki24.html [BACK]
Brewitt, B., Vittetoe, T, and Hartwell, B. "The Efficacy of Reiki Hands-On Healing: Improvements in spleen and nervous system function as quantified by electrodermal screening". Alternative Therapies, July 1997, Vol.3, No.4, pg.89 [BACK]
Krieger, D. The Therapeutic Touch. New Jersey; Prentice-Hall, 1979 [BACK]
Krieger, D. Living the Therapeutic Touch. New York; Dodd, Mead & Co. 1987 [BACK]
American Holistic Nurses' Association, P.O. Box 2130, Flagstaff, AZ 86003-2130, USA; Tel: (800)278-2462; Fax: (520)526-2752; e-mail: ahna-flag@flaglink.com; website: http://www.ahna.org [BACK]
Wetzel, Wendy M.S.N., R.N., "Reiki Healing: A physiologic Perspective", Journal of Holistic Nursing, Vol.7, No.1, 1989 [BACK]
Barnett, Libby and Chambers, Maggie; Reiki Energy Medicine. Vermont; Healing Arts Press, 1996 [BACK]
Motz, Julie. Hands of Life. New York; Bantam Books, 1998 [BACK]
The BRN Report, Volume 13, No.1, Spring 2000; http://www.m.ca.gov [BACK]

Long-Term Effects of Energetic Healing on Symptoms of Psychological Depression and Self-Perceived Stress

2008-02-25T12:22:00.000-05:00

The following is a summary of the research article " Long-Term Effects of Energetic Healing on Symptoms of Psychological Depression and Self-Perceived Stress" by Adina Goldman Shore, PhD. Originally published in the May/June 2004, Vol. 10, No. 3 issue of Alternative Therapies magazine, reprints of the original article may be obtained by contacting: InnoVision Communications, 169 Saxony Road, Suite 103, Encinitas, CA 92024; phone, (866) 828-2962 or (760) 633-3910; email, alternative.therapies@innerdoorway.com

Reiki Research & Scientific Studies

2008-02-24T15:30:00.000-05:00

1. ARTICLES BY REIKI DOCTORS AND NURSES

2. ARTICLES ABOUT REIKI IN HOSPITALS

3. REIKI SCIENTIFIC STUDIES

4. BIBLIOGRAPHY - ARTICLES PENDING COPYRIGHT APPROVAL

5. BIBLIOGRAPHY - ARTICLES DENIED WEB POSTING APPROVAL

6. MASTERS DEGREE THESIS ABSTRACTS

Section 1: Articles By Reiki Doctors and Nurses

Reiki for the Recovering Alcoholic & Addict; Burkert, Lynette, The Reiki News.

Reiki and the Conventional Health Care Provider - Recommendations and Potholes; Chan, Phillilp, MD, The Reiki News

Leading with Reiki, Following with words - Reiki and Psychotherapy; Curtin, Richard, PsyD & Prebluda, Judith, MA, The Reiki News

Reiki and Nursing; Lipinski,Kathie, RN,MSN. The Reiki News

More On . . . Reiki and Nursing; Lipinski,Kathie, RN,MSN. The Reiki News

A Doctor Uses Reiki; Paty, R.B., MD, The Reiki News

Reiki Therapy: A Tool for Wellness; Rivera,Christina RN, IMPRINT, Feb 1999, pp 31-35

Reiki, Skepticism and Success, a Nurse's Story; Rossignol, Denise RN, The Reiki New

Section 2: Articles About Reiki In Hospitals

Reiki in Hospitals; Rand,.William, The Reiki News

The first Reiki practioner in our OR; Sawyer, Jeanette RN CNOR, AORN Journal, Mar 1998, Vol 67 No 3 pp674-67

Section 3: Reiki Scientific Studies

Autonomic Nervous-System-Changes During Reiki Treatment: A Preliminary Study. Published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Volume 10, Number 6.
This study revealed a significant reduction in diastolic blood pressure and heart rate in the Reiki group that didn’t appear in the placebo group or the control group, thus tending to indicate that Reiki created an important effect that was not caused by suggestion. This was a small study, but the quality of its design and the positive results it produced indicates that additional larger scale studies are warranted.

Reiki: Esoteric therapy or quantum interaction?; Barberis, Luca MD, June 1996

Reiki healing: No matter nor energy. Just being; Barberis, Luca MD, Nov 1998

Reiki: Effects of Reiki on pain and selected affective and personality variables of chronically ill patients, Dressen, Linda J., Singg, Sangeeta, Subtle Energies 1998. A review of this study appears in Spiritual Healing, Scientific Validation of a Healing Revolution, by Daniel Benor, M.D.

Reiki: Reiki plus natural healing: an ethnographic/experimental study, Marilyn J. Schlitz and William G. Braud, (Psi Research, 1985; Research in Parapsychology 1985, 1986). A review of this study appears in Spiritual Healing, Scientific Validation of a Healing Revolution, by Daniel Benor, M.D.

Biological Correlates of Reiki Touch Healing, Wardell D.W.;Engebretson J, Journal of Advanced Nursing, Volume 33, Number 4, February 2001, pp. 439-445(7)

Thirteen Case Studies to Investigate the Effects of Reiki on the Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis; Pankhurst, Juliet – RGN, Reiki Master

Section 4: Bibliography - Articles Pending Copyright Approval

The efficacy of Reiki hands-on healing: improvements in spleen and nervous system function as quantified by electrodermal screening; Brewitt, B., Vittletoe, T., Alternative Therapies 1997 July; Vol 3 No 4.

Reiki: A complementary therapy for life; Bullock, Marlene RN BSN, American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Care, Jan 1997, Vol 14(1) pp 31-32

One Nurse's evolution as healer; Quinn, Janet RN MA, American Journal of Nursing, Apr 1979 662-665

Reiki-Plus natural healing: an ethnographic experimental study, Schlitz, M., Braud, w., PSI Research 1985 Sept/Dec 4(3-4) 100-123.

A study of Reiki, an energy field treatment, using Rogers' Science, Thorton, L., Vol VIII No 3.

A randomized double-blind study of the effect of distant healing in a population with advanced AIDS; Sicher, F., Targ, E., The Western Journal of Medicine, Dec 1998 Vol 169 No 6 pp356-363

Reiki Research Study; Aliwalas, Emma MD, Youmans, Donna CMI

Trends in Alternative Medicine in the United States, 1990-1997; Eisenberg, David MD, Journal of the American Medical Association, 1998 Vol 280 pp 1569-1575

Reiki energy seen in dentistry, Nassen, Don DDS.

A contemporary view of alternative healing modalities, Engebretson, Joan DPH RN. Nurse Practitioner Sep 1993 Vol 18 No 9 pp51-55

Reiki: an ancient touch therapy; VanSell, Sharon RN EdD, RN Feb 1996 pp57-59

Using Reiki to support surgical patients; Alandydy, Patricia BSN RN, Journal of Nursing Care Quality 1999 Vol 13(4) pp89-91

Hands-on healing; Bower, Peter MD. Patient Care, Dec 1997

Using Reiki to manage pain; a preliminary report; Olson K. Cancer Prevention and Control 1997 Jun;1(2) 108-13 (20 ref)

The effect of complementary healing therapy on postoperative pain after surgical removal of impacted third molar teeth; Wirth DP. Complemenary Therapies in Medicine 1993 Jul; 1(3) 133-8 (38 ref)

Theraputic Touch: investigation of a practitioiner; Glickman R. Scientific Review of Alternative Medicine 1998 Spring-Summer; 2(1): 43-7 (25 ref)

Reiki: bridging traditional and complementary healing techniques; Behar M. OT Practice 1997 Feb; 2(2) 22-3 (3 ref)

Health Care and consumer choice: medical and alternative therapies; Kelner M.

Social Science and Medicine 1997 Jul; 45(2) 203-12 (30 ref)

Comparison of Nurses and alternative healers; Engebretson J. Image: Journal of Nursing Scholarship 1996 Summer; 28(2) 95-9 (14 ref)

Reiki therapy. Whitsitt T. Journal of Christian Nursing vol 15 #1 (1998 Winter): 12-3

Who seeks alternative health care? A profile of the users of five modes of treatment. Kelner M; Journal of alternative and complementary Medicine vol 3, no 2 (1997 Summer) 127-40

Hypnosis and Reiki, Rosentiel L. Journal of Hypnotism 1991 Dec; 8-10

"Skeptical" nurse finds wellness with Reiki; Olstinski M. Nursingmatters 1997 Jul; 8(7):13

Reiki - the gift of love, healing and wholeness; Retzlaff N. Nursingmatters 1998 Feb: 9(2): 14-5

Section 5: Bibliography

Reiki Healing: A Physiologic Perspective; Wetzel, Wendy, Journal of Holistic Nursing, Vol 7(1) pp 47-54

Unconventional medicine in the United States - prevalence, costs, and patterns of use; Eisenberg, David MD, New England Journal of Medicine 1993 Vol 328 pp 246-252

Section 6: Masters Degree Thesis Abstacts

Nurse Practitioners' views and knowledge of herbal medicine and alternative healing methods; Bacon, Mary, University of Lowell 1997. MAI 35/04 p996 Aug 1997 44 pages

Complementary energetic practices: an exploration into the world of Maine women healers; Markides, Emily, University of Maine, 1996 DAI-A57/04 p1509 Oct 1996 292 pages

Effects of Energetic healing on female nursing students; Thornton, Lucia, California State University at Fresno, 1991 MAI 31/01 p284, Spring 1993

Reiki: The use of Reiki therapy in the treatment of pain in rheumatoid arthritis (master's thesis, University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh, 1996) A review of this study appears in Spiritual Healing, Scientific Validation of a Healing Revolution, by Daniel Benor, M.D.

(taken from http://www.reiki.org/reikinews/research.html)

Yvonne's Reiki Story

2008-02-22T00:23:00.002-05:00

I was interested in Reiki because i heard that Reiki is something that is grounding and healing, so naturally i wanted some of that beauty for myself. i chose allisonjoy to administer my Reiki treatment because she is a profoundly gifted healer with an intuitive sense that infallibly knows what i need. allisonjoy is as loving as your favorite auntie and still very professional, thorough and truly, truly kind. i chose her because she made me feel like right where i/my body/my spirit was, was perfect.

Whenever i've had sessions with allisonjoy, i've felt like my heart and/or body was asking for some attention, some tenderness and some healing. i remember there was a time allisonjoy and i were driving through Brooklyn with a car load of friends. i was starving and feeling like i was going to pass out if i didn't get some food in my belly right away--but food was about a half hour away by car. i could not think or feel anything but the emptiness of my stomach and the weakness of my body. i turned to allisonjoy and asked for some Reiki. without words, she put her hand on my back and within minutes, i no longer felt faint or lightheaded. that is what i love about allisonjoy, the effects of her healing are intensely immediate! allisonjoy is thorough! she really really listened to me, and remembered things i had said to her before in previous conversations about my well being and concerns for my health. she listened with the tenderness of a grandmother. it feels good to speak with her because i know she's deeply invested in my well being.

It is challenging to describe what a Reiki session is or feels like. with allisonjoy, it is dependably magical but also as grounding as homeland soil. during my last session, i could feel my soul rocking, vibrating in my skin--it was like my spirit was too small for my body. i felt calm. i felt beautifully calm and wide.

Would i want Reiki from allisonjoy again? yes yes yeeeees! how can you say no to magic? would i recommend allisonjoy to other people? yes yes oh sweet goddess yes! if i love you, i will tell you to get your soul lifted and get some Reiki from allisonjoy. she will rock you like you were born to be.

~Reiki in University of Arizona College of Medicine Study

2008-02-17T14:03:00.000-05:00

College of Medicine Researcher Studies Ancient Method for Modern-Day Healing

UA researcher aims to probe anecdotal evidence that Reiki accelerates healing.

By University Communications
January 10, 2008

Reiki, an ancient Asian healing practice that promotes relaxation, stress reduction and pain relief to allow the body to better heal itself, is the subject of study by one professor at the UA College of Medicine.

The healing art is is being used in approximately 100 hospitals and clinics, including University Medical Center and the Arizona Cancer Center. It is sought as a complementary and alternative medicine technique, with anecdotal reports that it is highly effective in speeding patient healing.

With little quantitative science existing to support its use in the health care setting, a scientist at The University of Arizona College of Medicine has set out to measure the physiological effects of Reiki on both recipient and practitioner.

In studies she conducted in the late 1990s, Ann Baldwin, a professor of physiology and psychology, showed that exposure to the intensities of noise commonly occurring in many university animal facilities produced small leaks in the intestinal blood vessels of laboratory rats.

Evidence suggests that these microvascular leakages were produced by a stress response rather than the mechanical effects of sound vibration.

In a later study, published in January 2006 in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Baldwin – who also is a Reiki master teacher – examined whether Reiki could ameliorate the effects of noise stress in her study subjects.

In her experiment, a control group of animals was housed in a small, quiet facility. A second group received Reiki while being exposed to 15 minutes of 90-decibel white noise daily (similar to the noise level of a low-flying aircraft). Two other groups received “sham” Reiki, where a student simply mimicked the physical movements of a Reiki practitioner, or were exposed to noise alone. The experiment continued for three weeks and was repeated twice.

In all three experiments, Reiki significantly reduced the size and number of microvascular leaks, compared with the animals in the other three groups.

In human interactions, it is reported widely that the person practicing, or giving, Reiki experiences physiological change similar to that of the recipient.

Currently, Baldwin is using scientific techniques to gather more information, documenting the physical effects that Reiki produces on a Reiki master practicing the technique. Using a laser Doppler scanner, she has measured the percent of change in blood flow to the fingertips that results while the practitioner is doing Reiki. Other tests measure heart rate and heart rate variability and skin conductance.

It appears that the practice not only reduces stress, but balances the body’s energies. Self-practice of Reiki can cause blood flow in the fingertips to increase or decrease depending on whether the flow was low or high at the beginning of the session. While the mechanism for Reiki’s effects is yet to be determined, Baldwin suggests that practicing the technique changes the bio-electromagnetic field of the practitioner and that, in turn, impinges on the person receiving Reiki, changing his or her physiology and bringing the body in balance.

She suggests that Reiki may be a valuable tool in combination with established medicine to help the body heal itself. “I am convinced that there is something going on, and we need to learn more about it,” she said.

At University Medical Center and the Arizona Cancer Center, oncology social worker Marsha Drozdoff leads patients, caregivers and volunteer Reiki practitioners in implementing Reiki to reduce pain and stress and to help speed healing.

A clinical social worker at UMC for the past 26 years, Drozdoff came to Reiki through her own experience with a baffling neurological disorder. She now is a certified Reiki master teacher, working with nurses and other social workers to integrate Reiki and other complementary therapies into cancer care.

With a grant from the Susan G. Komen Foundation, she teaches Reiki to family members of women with breast cancer to enhance communication and intimacy; she has taught Reiki to minority women with breast cancer to promote relaxation and stress reduction; and, in a collaboration with UMC and the Arizona Cancer Center, she conducts a monthly Reiki group-sharing for cancer survivors and caregivers who are Reiki-trained.

(link to original article: http://uanews.org/node/17537)

~Reiki During Pregnancy & For Babies

2008-02-10T09:54:00.002-05:00

WHY USE REIKI?

by Lasi Leavy, Founder and Director of Mothering & More Birth Network

When Reiki is used early in pregnancy, it helps reduce exhaustion and nausea. In fact, it helps with all symptoms that a woman might experience throughout her entire pregnancy. It brings relief to every part of the body through pregnancy, and even into labor and birth. Reiki helps to calm fears and soothes a woman who may be unsure of herself and her body during her childbirth experience. The power of Reiki is known to make a baby wriggle with pleasure inside the womb. It also has a calming affect on the baby as well. Reiki helps mothers and their babies throughout pregnancy and during birth, with universal love and healing.

Reiki can be given, to both the mother and the baby, throughout pregnancy and at birth itself, if you, your partner, or your doula practice it. When the time to give birth arrives, Reiki helps to ease the pain and creates a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere for the baby.

Regular treatments of Reiki during pregnancy will help your body to maintain its natural, chemical and physiological balance.

Benefits of Reiki during Pregnancy:

— Reiki relieves uncomfortable symptoms that occur as the mother’s body undergoes changes

— Reiki supports the development of the growing baby

— Reiki deepens the relationship between mother and baby

(from: http://www.motheringandmore.org/information/optb01.html)

----------------------------------------------------

Reiki During Pregnancy

by: Hope Kramer

Reiki is safe to use during all stages of pregnancy from conception to childbirth. Couples who are having trouble getting pregnant sometimes seek Reiki treatments for their reproductive problems. Men as well as women have shown benefits from these Reiki therapy sessions. During pregnancy, tests conducted at Hartford Hospital in Hartford, Connecticut shows that Reiki used during pregnancy reduced anxiety by 94 percent, nausea by 80 percent, pain by 78 percent and improved sleep by 86 percent. (www.magma.ca/~peterz/parenting) During labor, pain is associated with the back and pelvic area. Reiki used during this stage has been shown to control and lessen pain during labor. This type of therapy has also shown to make delivery easier on the mom and baby. Also, mothers who have had previous c-sections who receive Reiki in later pregnancies show a clear reduction in the need for cesarean surgeries. Cramer explains that “it’s wonderful for the mother, because it makes the contractions milder and it can help with a whole peaceful feeling.” As far as post-partum treatment, Reiki is shown to reduce the emotional rollercoaster of adjusting to a new baby. Hand positions and chakra concentrations are great for stress reduction and anxiety reduction. Mothers who have used Reiki during and after pregnancy can better adjust to their babies. Babies are also better adjusted to the outside world when the mother has had Reiki therapy during her pregnancy. After the baby is born, it can be a stressful time for the baby. When Reiki is used in the delivery room it makes an easier transition for the baby. It also reduces anxiety, sleep problems, colic, and enhances motor activity and active sleep. An even newer trend in Reiki during pregnancy is certifying fathers so that they can get involved in the treating of their partner and child. They are able to treat themselves when they feel stressed, treat mom during the different phases of pregnancy and delivery as well as the baby during late night feedings or colic fits.

(from: http://www.expertvillage.com/article/3859_reiki-pregnancy.htm)

Byosen Scanning Reiki Session

2008-02-05T03:28:00.000-05:00

During Byosen Scanning Sessions, the practicioner will place her hands a few inches above the body and slowly move them to search for areas of imbalance.

Byosen, translated as “sick accumulation,” is the frequency that is emitted from a tense, injured or ill body part. It is also the reaction of the body to incoming Reiki energy. By evaluating these two aspects of the byosen, the practitioner can discover the area or areas that most need treatment, know how long the hands should remain in a particular area, and know whether additional treatments are indicated.

Hands-On Reiki Session

2008-02-05T03:24:00.001-05:00

In a standard treatment, Reiki energy flows from the practitioners hands into the client. The client is usually laying on a massage table but treatments can also be given while the client is seated or even standing. The client remains fully clothed. The practitioner places her hands on or near the clients body in a series of hand positions. These include positions around the head and shoulders, the stomach, and feet. Other, more specific positions may be used based on the clients needs. Each position is held for three to ten minutes depending on how much Reiki the client needs at each position. The whole treatment usually lasts between 45 and 90 minutes.

Sarwat's Reiki Story

2008-02-05T02:53:00.001-05:00

i live in chicago. i've had the pleasure of receiving reiki treatments from allison a few times, and if the distance were more easily spanned i would work with her on a regular basis.

the first time, i didn't know much about reiki, and felt an affinity to its (seeming) simplicity: all allison needed was a few minutes alone; all i needed to do was remove all the metal on my body (jewelry, my belt, change from my pockets), and lie down on my back. just a little bit of quiet space, and a compassionate connection. the first time was on a friend's comfy carpeted floor.

allison offered the gift of reiki and i accepted. i had had a bad headache for days, had not been able to sleep, and it was affecting my back as well. i was as engaged in the healing process as she was, taking deep breaths and relaxing into th movement of the energy, though she was certainly taking the lead in facilitating and channeling it. she began with my head, and placed her hands at different spots on my clothed body - chest, abdomen, hips, back. at each place i felt slightly different sensations. that first time what i felt most strongly throughout was a kind of liquid, amber light, a flowing, intense heat. it was incredible. i felt cleansed, warm, and open. afterward i had to urinate urgently, though! then drank alot of water to continue to flush the toxins - energetic and otherwise - in my system. my headache was gone, most of my tension had relaxed, and i slept that night.

since then, i have had one or two reiki treatments from allison for my lower back and hips, which carry chronic pain and inflammation (a condition i hadn't developed yet, that first time). each time the experience of sharing reiki with her has been healing, great for pain management - and also healing spiritually. that chronic pain stems from past trauma, and during sessions with allison, i have received visuals and images that vary from symbolic to literal, and many are quite beautiful. a cup pouring water endlessly... the water becomes milk... electricity crackling silently...

reiki for me is not always comfortable. it sometimes feels like i have bricks in my body that are being gently shattered with heat and sound, which makes them able to flow and flush out of me. but it has never been painful. breathing deeply is key in remaining present and taking an active part in moving through those less-than-comfortable feelings. allison is very empathic and checks in often, if necessary, knows to say just the right, small thing. other times i physically feel very little - and allison has told me afterward that her sensations were INTENSE. once i believe the current was so strong that her hands were actually pushed up from my body to hover an inch above my skin - but (eyes closed and lying on my belly) i never felt her hands leave me.

allisonjoy is a fierce, gentle spirit - the way fire can manifest as a glowing ember to radiate a calm warmth, or a flickering flame that inspires and sheds light, or a snapping blaze that ignites and incites. she is a true, intuitive healer. she works with me, not on me. as i said, if i could see her regularly i would!

allison has also worked on our performance collective as a group. she employed her skills with reiki when she road managed one of our gigs, at a university. she cast sacred space with us performers, and reiki-ed our rehearsals. she gave us reiki minutes before we took the stage. frankly, i had not experienced such a spiritual, absolutely focused and supportive performance process in a long, long time. sometimes we were tired ( we worked hard!!!), but never burnt out. and as performers, we were amazingly connected and tight on stage.

whether you're looking for personal healing or work with your group or collective, i can only speak glowingly of allison. she's a natural, with the training and skills, and approaches all of her work from a social justice, anti-oppression framework. she's trustworthy! please take her up on her gifts!

Jill's Reiki Story

2008-02-05T02:52:00.000-05:00

I have known AllisonJoy for a couple of years now, and she graciously offered me a place in her home when I first transitioned from Chicago to New Jersey/New York. While living in her home, she offered me a Reiki session several times. Whenever we tried to schedule one, there was always one reason or another on my part as to why we couldn’t coordinate it. I believe that everything happens for a reason, and I now know that I just wasn’t ready to receive the Reiki healing at those times. Finally, after more than half a year later, I was ready.

Prior to my first Reiki session, I had had three holistic healing sessions at different times in my life whenever I visited the Philippines. I was forced to attend these sessions under my parents suggestion, because I was either physically sick or they were worried about my lack of appetite in the environment. These sessions were administered by different healers in the local province where my parents were from. The sessions were all intimidating, abrupt, and unpleasant, since I was forced to sit in silence as the healer placed their hands on me.

My Reiki experience with AllisonJoy was, in fact, the exact opposite to these previous experiences. When we were finally able to hold the session, I was in a place in my life in NY where I was dealing with homesickness away from my home and family and a variety of other challenges from the transition. I felt like AllisonJoy’s warm energy, professionalism, and genuine love for healing others in her community made her a perfect guide in my healing process.

My Reiki treatment was a great stepping stone toward my personal healing through this very difficult time. AllisonJoy prepped me every step of the way—and it was extremely important for me to fully understand the history of Reiki and all of its components and the exact steps she would be taking to administer the treatment. I felt extremely comfortable and well-equipped to have my treatment. AllisonJoy has a wonderful, comprehensive, accessible/user-friendly website with a lot of great resources and all of the information I needed to feel confident in taking steps toward a treatment with her. Prior to the treatment, AllisonJoy sent me this information and made sure to check-in on me with questions around my well-being and things to think about going into my session. When I arrived, I felt instantly comfortable in the treatment space, as the environment was calming and filled with a peaceful energy. AllisonJoy sat and talked to me more about the treatment, and we talked through a lot of the personal healing I was seeking in the session. She answered all of my questions and made sure I was comfortable and ready before we began. The treatment itself was calming and necessary. AllisonJoy made sure to consult me about physical boundaries and gave me a choice as to whether or not I wanted her to physically place her hands on me, and if so, where on my body I felt comfortable with this. This was an extremely important and reassuring conversation, as the healers in my previous experiences were not as conscious of my comfort level and did not offer me choices. My body felt much more relaxed, and I was conscious of certain areas feeling stronger energy during the treatment than others. After the treatment, AllisonJoy and I talked about the areas where I felt these pulls, and she shared that her hands were pulled to the same areas. The whole session was extremely clarifying for me in forward thinking about my own self-care and ways to heal and release a lot of the tension and stress I hold inside.

AllisonJoy and I talked about how as women of color, we often feel guilty for taking part in acts of self-care, and healing practices like Reiki treatments seem too indulgent or like a luxury we can’t validate or make time for. These are the precise reasons why AllisonJoy’s practice and approach to community work are so important. She shared with me a gift that she offers to those in her community—the opportunity to heal instead of feeling like we have to hold the weight of our families, friends, partners, and communities on our bodies. I am excited by her vision to offer these treatments at community-friendly rates and some of her other programs (like sponsoring another sister) to allow the rest of the community to partake in something that shouldn’t be seen as a mere luxury—but rather, our own basic rights to self-care.

Making the time for this type of healing is not always easy. As a woman of color, I feel like I’ve been socialized to think about self-care in very specific ways, and healing through the body and spirit is still something I struggle with. I am currently working through and exploring self-healing in a variety of ways. I would highly recommend Reiki sessions with AllisonJoy because of her great care for those she is treating, her professionalism and sensitivity throughout the whole experience, and the strength that this practice will continue to bring to our communities.

Thank you, AllisonJoy!

~Reiki & Stress Management

2008-01-27T17:00:00.002-05:00

Stress

The Health and Safety Executive define stress as “the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed on them.”

Everyone suffers from stress to varying degrees. Prolonged stress is the most damaging and can adversely affect all the bodily processes, as the body hasn’t the time to recuperate, causing numerous physiological and psychological problems.

Why Do We Suffer From Stress?

Any kind of change or even imagined change can cause stress. Throughout our lives we are constantly subjected to stressful situations and emotional traumas, starting with being separated from our mothers at birth! We then become stressed when we are hungry and need changing or a hug and as we grow up our interactions with other people generate stress such as: gaining parents and peers approval, pressure to succeed at school, work or in other areas of life, forming relationships and relationship breakdowns, bereavement. Other stresses include:

Work life
Finding work
A job promotion
Unemployment
Commuting
Environmental factors (such as external toxins, tobacco, pollution, alcohol, food)
Exams
Moving house
Driving
Shopping
Having children
Illness and injuries

Stress attacks us from every direction on a daily basis. No one is immune to stress, whether they think they are or not! Stress may not necessarily be expressed outwardly but internalised. It is often said that stress is an essential motivation tool to help us achieve more but it is when we are in a true state of relaxation that our bodies are most productive and our minds are the most focused and concentrated. If we can reduce our stress levels as much as possible in our lives we have a much greater chance of developing physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

Stress on the Job

Job stress can be defined as the harmful physical and emotional responses that occur when the requirements of the job do not match the capabilities, resources, or needs of the worker. Job stress can lead to poor health and even injury.

Scope of Stress in the American Workplace

Job stress has become a common and costly problem in the American workplace, leaving few workers untouched. For example, studies report the following:

One-fourth of employees view their jobs as the number one stressor in their lives.

-Northwestern National Life

Three-fourths of employees believe the worker has more on-the-job stress than a generation ago.
-Princeton Survey Research Associates

Problems at work are more strongly associated with health complaints than are any other life stressor-more so than even financial problems or family problems.
-St. Paul Fire and Marine Innsuance Co.

The Effects of Stress

If stress becomes chronic it can have numerous detrimental effects on our health. Below is a list of just some of the conditions that have been linked with stress:

Depression - thought to be due to the continuous release of the stress hormone cortisol by the adrenal glands, resulting in a serotonin imbalance.

Damaged Immune System - Stress can:

Suppress the immune system's response to infections. There have been some studies demonstrating that people suffering from chronic stress have low white blood cell counts. This makes them more susceptible to colds and infections.
Stress can trigger the release of cytokines (protein molecules released by the immune system to cause a reaction in other cells) in the body, causing an inflammatory response throughout the body. As a result of this the the adrenal glands produce cortisol and other glucocorticoid (anti inflammatory) hormones to suppress the immune system and inflammation reactions once the infection has cleared. However, in cases of chronic stress the cortisol levels remain continuously elevated so the immune system is constantly being suppressed.
Conversely in some situations stress can generate an overactive immune system, increasing the risk of developing autoimmune diseases (where the immune system attacks your own body). In addition stress can aggravate the symptoms of autoimmune disorders that are already in existence.

Cancer - Some studies on animals have demonstrated that excessive levels of stress had detrimental effects on the functioning of the immune system and was a contributing factor in tumour growth. Stress can also lead to self destructive behaviour (such as drinking alcohol, drug taking, poor diet), which could potentially contribute towards developing cancer.

Allergies - Stress can make allergies worse by impairing immune system function, either by suppressing it or making it overactive. Stress can also aggravate skin conditions such as: eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and acne.

Insomnia - Stress can cause insomnia as someone who is chronically stressed will often lay awake thinking about their problems. In turn sleep deprivation then causes further stress and may result in an impaired nervous system function. Sufferers of insomnia may feel extreme fatigue, irritability and poor memory amongst other symptoms.

Memory Problems - The immediate effect of stress can prove detrimental to our short term memory. Chronic stress can cause loss of concentration in sufferers along with a tendency to be more accident prone. Some studies have demonstrated that prolonged exposure to the stress hormone cortisol can lead to the hippocampus (vital for long term memory storage) shrinking.

Sexual and Reproductive Problems - Stress can result in a decrease in sexual desire, impotence in men and an inability to orgasm in women. Stress can also diminish fertility, interfering with the ovulation process. Stress hormones adversely affect the hypothalamus (which regulates the ovaries amongst other things). Stress can also stop menstruation completely.

Pregnancy Problems - Stress can interfere with adrenal hormone levels or resistance in the arteries in a pregnant woman, which can affect the blood flow to the placenta. Stress during pregnancy has been linked with a higher risk of miscarriage, premature births and low birth weights. This is said to be due to the presence of high levels of Corticotropin- releasing hormone in the blood, which encourages early births. There has also been evidence that stress in a pregnant woman can affect the way the baby's brain and nervous system respond to stressful situations.

Cardiovascular problems - Stress can cause blood vessel constriction, palpitations and 'sticky' blood, elevating the risk of blood clots and high cholesterol - due to the impaired metabolism of fat deposits and the release of cytokines causing damaged arteries. Stress is one of the main causes of high blood pressure. Recent studies have also demonstrated how high stress levels can increase the risk of a stroke.

Headaches/ Joint and Muscular Pain - It has been said that stress can increase chronic pain caused by various conditions. Stress can also cause headaches, especially stress caused by emotional traumas.

Digestive Disorders - The brain and intestine are highly connected and the enteric nervous system regulates gastrointestinal motility. Stress can delay the production of stomach acid and digestive processes, slowing or even halting digestion. Prolonged stress can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and cause problems such as: diarrhoea, constipation, cramping and bloating. Stress has been linked with: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Peptic Ulcers, Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease, Leaky Gut Syndrome.

Eating Disorders - Stress elevates cortisol levels which can potentially cause cravings for sugary, salty or fatty foods to relieve tension. This results in weight gain. This can then cause feelings of low self esteem in the sufferer, increasing stress levels and resulting in further comfort eating. Studies have shown that the release of the stress hormone cortisol seems to encourage the accumulation of fat in the abdominal area around the liver and other vital organs.

Stress can also cause a reduced appetite, therefore cause weight loss and in some cases an overactive thyroid.

Diabetes - Stress has been linked to Diabetes as it can effect how the body utilises insulin to regulate blood glucose levels, causing persistent high blood glucose levels.

So, How Can Reiki Help With Stress?

Reiki heals on all levels: physical, emotional and spiritual to ultimately create ‘oneness’ within ourselves and ‘oneness’ with the Universe. Reiki cannot only help dramatically with specific physical problems and illnesses but in addition Reiki heals on an emotional level to ensure that any physical problems caused by stress and emotional trauma, do not return. Reiki teaches you how to relax and when you are completely relaxed your stress diminishes. Reiki also helps your body to function at optimum levels, reducing the risk of developing illnesses.

When you either undergo Reiki treatments or learn a Reiki course you begin to see everything from a different perspective. Past emotional traumas are healed so that they can no longer prevent you from self-development and having the freedom to be yourself. Once you are free to be yourself, you do not feel so constrained by the environment you are within and you develop better coping mechanisms for what life throws at you! Reiki enables you to be more of a detached outsider looking in on your life with a ‘fresh,’ objective perspective rather than being trapped inside your life with no way out. Reiki helps you to feel at peace with yourself, be kind to yourself and do what is 'right' for you rather than setting yourself unachievable goals and having unrealistic expectations.

You will find after your Reiki treatments or courses that the events in life that used to make you feel stressed out no longer have the same effect as you will be able to see the ‘bigger picture.’ In fact you will probably wonder why you felt stressed about those things in the first place. Reiki also helps you to learn not to put yourself in situations that are harmful to you so you will find yourself detaching from the people that are merely draining you and you will begin to do the things that are right for you. Reiki teaches you that you are not here to please anyone you are here to do what is right for your path on this earth, for yourself and for others. There is a huge difference between doing what is right for people and trying to please them.

Often people have a fear of failure and get so desperately wrapped up trying to do what they think others expect of them but this is not the right way to live. Reiki can help you gain so much more focus and clarity, as well as helping you to trust your intuition. Once you can completely trust in your intuition above all else, then you having nothing left to fear. This is not to say that after learning Reiki or undergoing Reiki treatments you will never feel stressed again, because life always presents us with difficult situations, but you will be able to handle them in a much healthier way. You will be healing physically, emotionally and spiritually. This will create within you a higher, more universal outlook that will make life much more manageable giving you a greater sense of direction and understanding of why you are here along with an inner peace and a real sense of happiness.

~Reiki & Nursing

2008-01-13T14:51:00.004-05:00

Enhancing Nursing Practice with Reiki

by Kathie Lipinski, RN, MSN

As a Reiki Master Teacher, Nurse Massage Therapist, and Holistic Nurse in private practice, my experience has shown that Reiki enhances all nursing skills. Reiki enhances both nursing care and judgement in a hospital, private practice, administrative, managed or home care setting.

Nurses have always been known to have a sixth sense or what many refer to as "Nurses’ Intuition." It is that ability to "know" when to check on a patient, to call a family when a patient is not doing well, to have a doctor recheck a patient, to call or visit a home care client when a visit wasn’t planned "just because" you had a feeling, or recheck paperwork. Reiki training enhances this ability to "know" or "sense" things or be more aware of subtle signs.

Because Reiki comes from the source,
the nurse never has to worry
about depleting his or her own energy.

Working with energy is another way of gathering information on a deeper level. It gives one "subtle clues" as to what is really going on with a person. It helps one to become more aware of the emotional or spiritual component of dis-ease that the nurse can share with the client to gain understanding or insight.

This insight fits with the nurses’ role of helping a person to understand and learn more about their health or illness and to provide guidance to change behavior and increase awareness. Reiki training makes a nurse more aware of subtle energies – physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. This subtle energy phenomenon is known to Nurses as the "Human Energy Field".

Reiki enhances Therapeutic and Healing Touch techniques since it is an energy source in itself. It helps the nurse to protect herself from picking up negative energies or vibrations from the person she is working with. Because Reiki comes from the source, the nurse never has to worry about depleting his or her own energy. Reiki treats both practitioner and client.

The most important benefit of Reiki is the self-care aspect. With all the energies that a nurse has to give in caring for others, a nurse often suffers "burn out." Reiki is an excellent way for nurses to take care of themselves and restore their energy and avoid depletion.

Reiki has helped me fine tune my clairvoyance so that I can "see" the emotional component behind the dis-ease or emotional turmoil. It has enhanced my touch so that my hands are more sensitive to the muscle state. When I use guided imagery or regression with a client, it helps me to see the traumatic event and dialogue with the people involved. Reiki has taken me from traditional nursing to a more holistic model where deeper healing is addressed through the use of subtle energies.

Many of my Reiki students and friends who are nurses often tell me about the ways they use Reiki. Some use Reiki energy to help them more easily locate a vein when inserting an intravenous line (IV). Others give their patients Reiki while taking their blood pressure or pulse. The patient’s often reply that they feel "something special" or feel more relaxed. It is amazing what just a few minutes of Reiki can do.

Home care nurses use Reiki in physical and psychological assessments, changing dressings, paper work, health care teaching and working with family members. Recovery room nurses report using Reiki over the incision site of painful areas and find patients have an easier time waking up or recovering from anesthesia and surgical trauma. Emergency room nurses use Reiki to calm patients down quickly and to be more open to treatment. They find that Reiki also calms down family members. Dr. Nancy Eos explains in her book "Reiki and Medicine" how she uses Reiki to help her decide which person needs to be seen first (triage).

Nurses in administrative or management positions use Reiki when doing stressful tasks such as staffing, counseling, and reviewing employees. Reiki calms the situation, and creates a more receptive state and clearer thinking. Some managers and staff give themselves Reiki before and during a staff meeting and find the meeting goes smoother.

Nurses in private practice tell me how Reiki enhances their hypnotherapy skills, guided imagery exercises, their work as a dula in Labor and Delivery, and massage sessions, etc.

As nurses’ roles continue to change and expand, Reiki is there to assist in their professional development. Reiki assists nurses in caring for themselves and restores their energies so they can continue to give of themselves in their role as health care advocates. Nurses who practice Reiki are in the unique position to combine both Reiki and their strong medical knowledge to help clients and improve the health care system.

Kathie Lipinski is a Center Licensed Teacher of Usui Reiki and Karuna Reiki®. She is a Healing Touch Practitioner and Nationally Certified Massage Therapist. Kathie has six years experience working with Reiki and other energy based healing techniques. She is a Registered Nurse, Massage Therapist, Teacher of Massage Therapy and lives in Louisville, Kentucky. Please contact Kathie Lipinski, RN, MSN. E-Mail - KBLIP@aol.com

(from http://www.reiki.org/Healing/NursingandReiki.html)

~Reiki as Preventative Medicine

2007-12-30T14:58:00.004-05:00

by Mary-Anne DiBlasio

As we age, we do so many things to attempt to get and stay healthy or try to maintain feeling well. We spend thousands of dollars on vitamins, herbal supplements and exercise equipment to be sure we live a long and healthy life, right? Well, what about another type of preventative medicine… to work on your body, mind and spirit as a whole… Reiki.

The human body is one of the most fascinating mechanisms there is. The body actually knows exactly what it needs to heal itself. We unfortunately do not give ourselves the time and space we need, the appropriate down time, which our bodies require to recoup from simple day to day stresses. We see a lot of people having heart attacks, suffering from anxiety, feeling depressed etc. If we took the time to honor ourselves, our bodies would then, in turn, thrive.

With Reiki, instead of looking for that quick fix in today's fast paced society, we give the body the space it needs to heal. We start by bringing the body back into balance. There are so many factors today, which throw the system off balance: stress, fatigue, depression, the list goes on and on – you know what they are and of course some are more stressful to you than others, it depends on your personality. Some of us have an easier time with emotional stresses, others - work stresses are easier, others - financial stresses. We are all different.

Reiki works from the inside out, trying to get at the root of the issues, working with the body's own natural rhythm, to bring you back into balance to promote optimum health. You wouldn't build a house on a shaky foundation, right? Well, neither should you build yourself on a less than perfect foundation. Granted, each body is different, but each body also knows where it should be for optimum health. We look at the body having small imbalances on a day to day basis… the body not being “at-ease”. If the body stays in this state for any length of time then the risk of actual “dis-ease” could set in. But, if we could catch the imbalance before it really settles in and makes itself at home, we can hold disease at bay, and who doesn't think that is a good idea?

A Reiki session will give you health benefits naturally… assisting your own natural healing ability within your own body, for optimum health and wellness. It truly restores balance to your body, mind and spirit.

(Article written by Mary-Anne DiBlasio – Reiki Master/Teacher – Western Mass Wellness, llc. West Springfield, MA 01089 – www.westernmasswellness.com)

~Reiki & Cancer Care

2007-12-16T02:30:00.000-05:00

Reiki: Rising Star in Complementary Cancer Care
By Kate Jackson
April 5, 2004

http://www.fortherecordmag.com/archives/ftr_040504p32.shtml
Vol. 16 No. 7 p.32

When Nancy Sampson, RN, BS, was preparing to retire from hospital nursing, she wanted to work with one of the hospital’s general practitioners, who was opening a retreat for cancer patients and who encouraged her to learn a biofield therapy known as Reiki (pronounced RAY-kee). “I sort of rolled my eyes, but I thought, ‘OK, I’ll try it,’” she recalls. “Of course, everyone was rolling their eyes back then; but, I had a phenomenal experience when I was first initiated into Reiki, and I knew at once that there was something to it.”

Sampson went on to become a Reiki master and teacher, and for the last seven years has coordinated a volunteer Reiki program in the radiation oncology department at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in New Hampshire. Her experiences have validated her initial enthusiasm, and she’s certain that Reiki not only helps cancer patients retain and receive energy to heal, lessens the disease’s symptoms, and mitigates the side effects of treatment, but it also frequently extends lives.

Barbara G. Smith was equally skeptical. When her sister, a holistic and conventional veterinarian, invited her to take a Reiki course, Smith declined. “She kept after me, and I said, ‘I’m not interested; I don’t know what it is; I don’t have time.’ But, she wouldn’t leave me alone,” she remembers. “Finally, because my husband and I both had Lyme disease, I thought if it could possibly help, why not try it?”

The course transformed her life. “I absolutely loved it,” she says. “All I wanted to do from that point on was use Reiki to help people.” Smith also became a Reiki master and teacher and is unwavering in her conviction that Reiki is a powerful complementary therapy for use with traditional modalities when healing sick patients. “I’d love to see it used—not just in a few isolated facilities, but in every hospital—along with other complementary and alternative therapies so that patients and doctors can work together to heal the whole person, not merely treat symptoms,” she says.

A GENTLE HEALING FORCE
“Reiki is a gentle, noninvasive, yet powerful energy that’s wonderful used alone or in combination with conventional or holistic care,” says Smith. The word Reiki—from the Japanese words rei, meaning universal, and ki, meaning life force energy—describes a healing and stress-reduction technique believed to be rooted in ancient Tibet. It’s believed that it was rediscovered in 1914 by Dr. Mikao Usui, who, legend has it, was a Buddhist monk in Kyoto, Japan, who—based upon his extensive research—developed what has come to be known as the Usui system of Reiki. Hawayo Takata, a disciple of Dr. Chujiro Hayashi, Usui’s successor, introduced Usui Reiki to the West in the 1930s. Most of today’s Reiki masters trace their lineage to the 22 masters trained by Takata.

Many Eastern cultures embrace the concept of universal energy (ki in Japanese; prana in Sanskrit; chi or qi in Chinese) and believe that physical, spiritual, or emotional distress results from an energy blockage. With Reiki, the practitioner is believed to channel energy to the patient and restore balance.

To practice Reiki, an individual must be trained and “attuned,” or initiated, to channel energy. Only a master teacher who has reached the highest of three levels of training can train students. Level 1- and level 2-trained students, however, are capable of giving Reiki to themselves and others. Level 1, which is typically accomplished in a two-day period, is effortless, energizing, and, at the same time, extraordinarily relaxing. Second-level training, which can also be accomplished in two days, enables the recipient to access more healing energy than level 1 through the use of mantras and symbols. Level 3 master training, the duration of which depends on the Reiki master, provides even greater access to healing energy through the use of additional mantras and symbols.

During Reiki sessions, a clothed patient reclines on a massage table or Reiki table with pillows beneath his or her head and knees. Often, relaxing music is played. During a treatment (which lasts from 20 minutes to 90 minutes), Reiki practitioners float their hands above or place their hands lightly on specific energy centers of the body. Using 12 to 15 hand positions, they transmit Reiki to the patient. Reiki practitioners neither diagnose nor promise outcomes. Nevertheless, they believe Reiki to have innate wisdom, be spiritually guided, serve the highest good, and flow naturally to wherever an individual needs it most.

Although many believe Reiki to be spiritual, it is not a religion, and it does not require those who give or receive it to adhere to any religious dogma. Recipients, Smith explains, have different reactions. Some initially feel nothing, while others may “experience a floating sensation, drift off to sleep, or feel a glowing radiance flowing through and surrounding them,” she says. Most, she says, will have a sense of profound relaxation.

WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS
Reiki can be a difficult concept for medical professionals to fathom. The terms often used to describe it can be alienating to those who speak the language of hard science and statistics. Its mechanisms and efficacy have not yet been measured or validated in a conventional way; its practitioners are neither trained nor credentialed in the rigorous manner familiar to most clinicians; and its premise strikes many as implausible or insubstantial. Nevertheless, healthcare professionals have not only been intrigued by Reiki, but many have also recommended it to their patients—and a surprising number have learned Reiki and employ it alongside their conventional healing practices. More surprising is that, in advance of rigorous investigation and research, Reiki has been embraced and legitimized by leading hospitals that offer it as a complement to traditional treatments.

This reception, however, is hardly surprising to those who’ve tried Reiki. Practitioners and recipients alike claim that the therapy can promote natural healing, stimulate endorphins, lessen or eliminate pain, lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, alter hormone levels, promote deep relaxation, energize, and calm. The American Cancer Society acknowledges patients’ subjective reports that Reiki speeds healing, increases physical and spiritual well-being, and reduces the intensity and frequency of nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. While many practitioners firmly believe that it shortens hospital stays, decreases patients’ need for medications, minimizes the side effects of treatment, and improves quality of life, none suggest that Reiki is a substitute for medical diagnosis or conventional treatment. They maintain, however, that because it has no potential for harm and no contraindications, it’s an attractive complementary approach appropriate for all interested patients.

While evidence of Reiki’s effectiveness has, until recently, been largely anecdotal, it has been compelling enough to inspire the beginnings of ambitious research. The National Center for Alternative and Complementary Medicine is investigating the use of Reiki in the treatment of HIV and diabetes. Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan, under a grant from the National Cancer Institute of Canada, are exploring the use of Reiki to combat the side effects of chemotherapy and anxiety in breast cancer patients.

Not everyone sees Reiki in terms of energy and the like. Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) in New York City view Reiki as a form of light-touch massage and are studying it alongside more traditional forms of massage to determine the effects on symptoms common in cancer patients. The initial findings of a retrospective analysis of clinical follow-up data, including 1,200 patients, was presented in 2002 at the American Society of Clinical Oncology. “We ask patients to rate their symptoms before and after treatment,” says Wendy Miner, LMT, massage therapy manager at MSKCC and Reiki master. “Some patients were also called one day later and two days later and asked if the symptoms increased or stayed low and to what extent.”

What the study revealed, she explains, is that the symptoms patients described as being most bothersome usually decreased by 50% after a single treatment and did not return to pretreatment levels during two days of follow-up. There were no important differences in effect between Reiki and the various other forms of massage. Miner is quick to point out that MSKCC massage therapists have given many thousands more episodes of massage care than those followed in this study. Though not at all surprised by the results, they were encouraged to have preliminary data to support their impressions of significant clinical benefit from massage therapies.

THE CANCER CONNECTION
Michael McCarty, a level 2 Reiki practitioner, and his wife, Susan, a Reiki master from Salem, Ind., relied on Reiki when Michael was diagnosed with cancer in 1999. Daily practice reduced the pain of surgery and allowed him to endure 37 radiation treatments with relative ease and no side effects. “I don’t know how it works,” he says. “All I know is that it worked for me.” Michael’s enthusiasm for Reiki garnered the support of his radiologist, who told him that he was “all for anything to keep you emotionally and mentally stable while going through something so threatening to your body.”

Despite the scarcity of hard data confirming Reiki’s specific benefits, this kind of positive patient response has prompted many cancer programs—such as MSKCC, DHMC, Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, Bassett Healthcare’s Louis Busch Hager Cancer Center, and the Yale Cancer Center—to offer Reiki. At MSKCC, for example, Reiki is offered to improve quality of life and help relieve the symptoms of cancer in a state-of-the-art, integrative medical center. “It’s been an incredible tool here,” says Miner, who’s been practicing Reiki for approximately 13 years and teaching it for eight years. “I find it helpful for the gamut of concerns of the cancer center population.” It’s considered so beneficial, in fact, that it’s the subject of regular inservice programs so that all hospital staff can learn more about it and incorporate it. “Medical professionals who take the time to learn Reiki add a powerful dimension to their practice,” says Smith.

Reiki is a particularly attractive tool for cancer patients, says Smith, because it requires nothing of the patient but a willingness to participate and because it naturally flows to the need—whether that be mental, physical, emotional, or spiritual. At MSKCC, says Miner, patients rate their pain, fatigue, stress, nausea, and depression, and Reiki has been helpful in relieving all of these symptoms.

For example, the most common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation expressed by many cancer patients is fatigue. “With radiation,” says Miner, “the first two weeks might be OK, but at some point, the patients seem to hit a wall of fatigue. These patients say they’re really tired, and they can be people who are go-getters and have never felt tired like this before. In the past, if they didn’t get a good night’s sleep, they might have eaten better or exercised to feel better. But, this is not the kind of fatigue that can be relieved by any of these activities.”

During Reiki, patients often rest deeply, and when it’s done, they feel comfortable, Miner explains. “It makes them feel as if they won’t be tired for the rest of their lives,” she says. After a Reiki session, Smith says, “the patient is energized and able to do things that he or she didn’t believe were possible—perhaps going to a child’s school play or to the grocery store. It gives patients energy when they need it, allows them to relax when they most need it, and lets them sleep better than they would without it.”

At DHMC, Sampson, a nurse in the outpatient clinic, coordinates 10 volunteer Reiki practitioners who treat patients in a dedicated Reiki room within the radiation oncology department. It’s a peaceful oasis, she says, where ambulatory patients love to come to receive Reiki. For those who can’t visit the room, the team of Reiki volunteers follows them throughout the hospital for the duration of treatment. For the first seven years of Sampson’s Reiki program, there was one practitioner per patient. Now, based on an ancient Japanese model, there are two practitioners per patient. Explains Sampson, a Usui Reiki master who also has a private Reiki practice in Quechee, Vt., “The patient will receive no fewer than five days of Reiki sessions because we have discovered that some do not respond or feel anything until the fifth session.”

For radiation patients who require as many as eight weeks of treatment, Sampson tries to ensure that they get at least two weeks of Reiki therapy and, when possible, receive Reiki straight through until the end of the radiation treatment. The goal, observes Sampson, is not to cure cancer. “We’re trying to heal—and healing is done with the patients’ minds,” she says.
According to Miner, another common problem for cancer patients is anxiety. “When people are in the hospital, they’re in a foreign environment,” she says. “Our patients are not here because they’re a little sick. They’re here because they’re very sick, and often they’re scared. They may be having 24-hour chemotherapy infusions, and their bodies are having responses.” Cancer patients may always be thinking “What if?” and “What do I do if this happens?” According to Miner, they relentlessly “think, think, think—worry, worry, worry.” Reiki, she says, often triggers the relaxation response, enabling them to effectively reduce those thoughts. “It gives them a reprieve for a time,” she says, “so that they’re not consumed by the burden of those repetitive thoughts.” Adds Sampson, with Reiki, “despite the diagnosis, patients don’t feel like they’re at the end of the world.”

Other stress- and pain-reduction methods, such as massage, may be inappropriate for patients undergoing radiation because their skin can become extremely sensitive. “The integrity of the uppermost tissue level is compromised, so we can’t do massage,” explains Miner. Massage therapists also cannot manipulate patients on radiation sites that overlay tumors, but they can easily perform Reiki. “We can lightly rest our hands on the affected area without applying any pressure and without creating any alarm,” she says.

“Reiki is not esoteric,” says Miner. “It’s basic, simple human communication. You lay your hands on someone and align yourself; you offer your best intentions for this person, and you encourage them to think of it that way.” The patients, observes Sampson, “say, ‘I feel so centered, so comfortable, so peaceful.’” Their pain, she suggests, is diminished, and many patients with terminal conditions have extended their lifetime by receiving Reiki.

In addition to ameliorating cancer symptoms and treatment side effects, Reiki comforts terminally ill patients. “When I make house calls on patients who are dying, I see what Reiki does for them,” says Sampson. “If I go to the hospital rooms of dying patients, I see the peace that surrounds and embraces them. They say they feel more calm, clear, energized, and centered and are at peace.”

EMPOWERING THE PATIENT TO HEAL
“Reiki provides medically proven flexibility in treating and supporting the patient as a whole,” explains Smith. One fact that all medical and healing modalities agree upon, she says, “is that a person’s attitude and stress level have a pronounced effect on the healing experience. Reiki allows patients to tap into an energy source that reduces or eliminates pain and stress so that the body has more energy to heal itself.”

Because receiving Reiki was so beneficial to patients at MSKCC, Miner concluded that her program should expand to teach and attune patients to self-administer Reiki, as well as train caregivers to provide the therapy. “I had a number of patients who came weekly for sessions, but I thought it would be great if they could use it every day at home as a relaxation tool, so that if they awakened in the middle of the night with anxiety, they could use it to help them get back to sleep,” she says. Her team at MSKCC, therefore, offers anyone—patients, staff, and community members—the opportunity to learn Reiki levels 1 and 2.

The goal, agrees Sampson, is not to hold on to patients but to teach them. “Then they can do it for themselves, and that’s a key part of healing,” she says. “The majority of patients take that route and find it extremely helpful.” When teaching Reiki, she tells patients in advance that they may not feel anything for a month. “I tell them not to have any expectations,” she says. “But, more often than not, people who are taught Reiki feel something right away.” They might feel a sensation of warmth, coolness, tingling, or pure peacefulness; see vivid colors in their minds; or experience a rush and release of emotion.
Learning and self-administering Reiki, says Smith, requires nothing from a person but willingness to participate. “If patients become attuned to Reiki, they are empowered to take responsibility for their own health and gain control,” she says. “Although they can’t control where the Reiki goes, they can put their hands on themselves whenever they want.” The healing and restorative powers of touch are well-known, she observes, “but the addition of Reiki takes it to a whole new dimension.”

— Kate Jackson is a staff writer at For the Record.

Reiki for your Pets

2007-12-14T14:25:00.002-05:00

The Reiki healing system is perfect for this as it carries with it respectful acknowledgment of animals’ expansive capabilities. Masters of energetic integration, animals intuitively understand that we all exist on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels simultaneously. With this understanding, they are naturals at accepting Reiki into their lives.”

~Cheryl Schwartz, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

For animals who are healthy, Reiki helps to maintain their health, enhances relaxation and provides an emotional sense of peace and contentment.
For animals who are ill, Reiki is a wonderful healing method as well as a safe complement to Western Medicine, Chinese Medicine, homeopathy, flower essences, and all other forms of healing. For example, Reiki can reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, aide in the swift recovery from surgery, support an acupuncture treatment, and enhance the effects of flower essences, such as rescue remedy.
For dying animals, Reiki is a powerful yet gentle way to provide comfort, relief from pain, fear, and anxiety, and to ease the transition to death.

reduce aggressive behavior
restore range of motion
manage and reduce pain
support chemotherapy patients
ease separation anxiety
calm your pet before flying/travel
fortify your pet before surgery
expedite recovery after surgery
rejuvenate working animals
center & ground animals for competition

(excerpt from Animal Reiki by Elizabeth Fulton & Kathleen Prasad)

my dog loves reiki!

Animal Reiki Practitioner Code of Ethics

2007-12-14T14:17:00.003-05:00

Developed by Kathleen Prasad, Founder of Animal Reiki Source

Guiding Principles:

I believe the animals are equal partners in the healing process.
I honor the animals as being not only my clients, but also my teachers in the journey of healing.
I understand that all animals have physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects, to which Reiki can bring profound healing responses.
I believe that bringing Reiki to the human/animal relationship is transformational to the human view of the animal kingdom.
I dedicate myself to the virtues of humility, integrity, compassion and gratitude in my Reiki practice.

In working on myself, I follow these practices:

I incorporate the Five Reiki Precepts into my daily life and Reiki practice.
I commit myself to a daily practice of self-healing and spiritual development so that I can be a clear and strong channel for healing energy.
I nurture a belief in the sacred nature of all beings, and in the value and depth of animalkind as our partners on this planet.
I listen to the wisdom of my heart, remembering that we are all One.
In working in the community, I hold the following goals:
I model the values of partnership, compassion, humility, gentleness and gratitude in my life and with the animals, teaching by example.
I work to create professional alliances and cooperative relationships with other Reiki practitioners/teachers, animal health-care providers and animal welfare organizations in my community.
I strive to educate my community in its understanding of the benefits of Reiki for animals.
I continually educate myself to maintain and enhance my professional competence so that I uphold the integrity of the profession.
I consider myself an ally to the veterinary and animal health community. I work to support their efforts in achieving animal wellness and balance. I honor other disciplines and their practitioners.

In working with the human companions of the animals, I will:

Share information before the treatment about my healing philosophy, the Reiki healing system and what to expect in a typical treatment, as well as possible outcomes, including the possibility of healing reactions.
Provide a clear policy ahead of time regarding fees, length of treatment and cancellation policy, as well as "postponement" policy, should the animal not want the treatment that day.
Never diagnose. I will always refer clients to a licensed veterinarian when appropriate.
Honor the privacy of the animals and their human companions.
Share intuition received during Reiki treatments, with compassion and humility, for the purpose of supporting their understanding of the healing process.
Respect the human companion's right to choose the animal's healing journey, selecting the methods, both holistic and/or conventional that he or she deems most appropriate, with the support and advice of a trusted veterinarian.

In working with the animals, I follow these guidelines:

I work in partnership with the animal.
I always ask permission of the animal before beginning, and respect his or her decision to accept or refuse any treatment. I listen intuitively and observe the animal's body language in determining the response.
I allow each animal to choose how to receive his or her treatment; thus each treatment could be a combination of hands-on, short distance and/or distant healing, depending on the animal's preference.
I let go of my expectations about how the treatment should progress and/or how the animal should behave during the treatment, and simply trust Reiki.
I accept the results of the treatment without judgment and with gratitude toward Reiki and the animal's openness and participation in the process.

~Reiki in Hospitals

2007-12-02T02:44:00.000-05:00

by William Lee Rand

At hospitals and clinics across America, Reiki is beginning to gain acceptance as a meaningful and cost-effective way to improve patient care. "Reiki sessions cause patients to heal faster with less pain," says Marilyn Vega, RN, a private-duty nurse at the Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital in New York. [Reiki] accelerates recovery from surgery, improves mental attitude and reduces the negative effects of medication and other medical procedures.

Vega, a Reiki master, includes Reiki with her regular nursing procedures. Because the patients like Reiki, she has attracted a lot of attention from other patients through word of mouth, as well as from members of the hospital staff. Patients have asked her to do Reiki on them in the operating and recovery rooms. She has also been asked to do Reiki sessions on cancer patients at Memorial Sloane Kettering Hospital, including patients with bone marrow transplants. Recognizing the value of Reiki in patient care, 6 doctors and 25 nurses have taken Reiki training with her.

America's Interest in Complementary Health Care
The general public is turning with ever-increasing interest to complementary health care, including Reiki. In fact, a study conducted by Dr. David M. Eisenberg of Boston’s Beth Israel Hospital found that one in every three Americans has used such care, spending over 14 billion out-of-pocket dollars on alternative health care in 1990 alone!1

Reiki is also gaining wider acceptance in the medical establishment. Some hospitals are incorporating it into their roster of patient services, often with their own Reiki-trained physicians, nurses and support staff.

Why Hospitals Like Reiki
Hospitals are undergoing major changes. They are experiencing a need to reduce costs and at the same time improve patient care. Under the old medical model based on expensive medication and technology this posed an unsolvable dilemma. Not so with Reiki and other complementary modalities. Reiki requires no technology at all and many of its practitioners offer their services for free. Reiki is therefore a very good way to improve care while cutting costs.

Julie Motz, a Reiki trained healer has worked with Dr. Mehmet Oz, a noted cardiothoracic surgeon at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York. Motz uses Reiki and other subtle energy techniques to balance the patients’ energy during operations. She has assisted Dr. Oz in the operating room during open heart surgeries and heart transplants. Motz reports that none of the 11 heart patients so treated experienced the usual postoperative depression, the bypass patients had no postoperative pain or leg weakness; and the transplant patients experienced no organ rejection.

An article in the Marin Independent Journal follows Motz's work at the Marin General Hospital in Marin County, California, just north of San Francisco. There Motz has used subtle energy healing techniques with patients in the operating room. She makes a point of communicating caring feelings and positive thoughts to the patients, and has been given grants to work with mastectomy patients in particular.

Dr. David Guillion, an oncologist at Marin General, has stated "I feel we need to do whatever is in our power to help the patient. We provide state of the art medicine in our office, but healing is a multidimensional process. . . . I endorse the idea that there is a potential healing that can take place utilizing energy."

More MD's and Nurses Practicing Reiki
Mary Lee Radka is a Reiki Master and an R.N. who has the job classification of Nurse-Healer because of her Reiki skills. She teaches Reiki classes to nurses and other hospital staff at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor. She also uses Reiki with most of her patients. She has found Reiki to produce the best results in reducing pain and stress, improving circulation and eliminating nerve blocks.

Reiki master Nancy Eos, M.D., was a member of the teaching staff of the University of Michigan Medical School. As an emergency-room physician, she treated patients with Reiki along with standard medical procedures.

"I can't imagine practicing medicine without Reiki," Eos says. "With Reiki all I have to do is touch a person. Things happen that don't usually happen. Pain lessens in intensity. Rashes fade. Wheezing gives way to breathing clearly. Angry people begin to joke with me."

In her book Reiki and Medicine5 she includes descriptions of using Reiki to treat trauma, heart attack, respiratory problems, CPR, child abuse, allergic reactions and other emergency-room situations. Dr. Eos now maintains a family practice at Grass Lake Medical Center and is an admitting-room physician at Foote Hospital in Jackson, Michigan, where she continues to use Reiki in conjunction with standard medical procedures. According to Dr. Eos, there are at least 5 other physicians at Foote hospital who have Reiki training along with many nurses.

Libby Barnett and Maggie Chambers are Reiki masters who have treated patients and given Reiki training to staff members in over a dozen New England hospitals. They teach Reiki as complementary care and the hospital staff they have trained add Reiki to the regular medical procedures they administer to their patients. Their book Reiki Energy Medicine6 describes their experiences. One of the interesting things they recommend is creating hospital "Reiki Rooms," staffed by volunteers, where patients as well as hospital staff can come to receive Reiki treatments. Bettina Peyton, M.D., one of the physicians Libby and Maggie have trained states: "Reiki’s utter simplicity, coupled with its potentially powerful effects, compels us to acknowledge the concept of a universal healing energy."

visit reikiinhospitals.org for more information & a list
of hospitals that offer Reiki as a complimentary treatment
to western medicine.

~Reiki from a Distance

2007-11-18T20:00:00.004-05:00

Distant Reiki Treatments are becoming more and more popular in today’s busy world. What a gift to relax in your own home and receive a healing treatment. You do not have to be present to receive the benefits of a Reiki treatment. You can be anywhere, doing anything and still be given the treatment. Many people enjoy receiving Reiki as they settle down for the nights sleep.

Distant healing or distance Reiki, can be sent remotely, to you or someone you love. There are no time nor space restrictions to distance Reiki. Healing can be sent to any place in the world, and to any moment in time, past or present.

Receiving a distance Reiki session is a convenient way to enhance the quality of your life without leaving the comfort of your home. It's power as a remote energy healing technique is equal to that of Reiki hands-on energy healing treatments. This scientifically and historically documented remote healing energy is being used by people all over the world. Reiki distance treatments healing beneficial effects are now recognized by both insurance companies and hospitals, thus making it a perfect compliment to traditional medial and psychological therapies.

Reiki is not just for people, treatments are sent to animals, situations, group meetings, etc. Distant treatments have assisted people to have more confidence while speaking in front of large groups of people or in a special meeting. They can be used to help clear unconstructive energy from a home, office, car, etc. Supportive energy can be sent before, during, and after surgery for people and animals.

Anyone can benefit from Reiki healing - You don't have to be ill or severly injured to benefit froma treatment energy. While Reiki automatically goes where it's most needed, the healing energy can be sent to help specific problems on the physical, emotional, mental or spiritual levels. You can benefit under any circumstance:

Distance Reiki during a test, an important business meeting or other event you or your loved ones are anxious about: a marriage proposal, a date, purchase of a home, etc. (Reiki enhances memory & calms)
Distance Reiki before/after surgery, medical procedure or child delivery(Reiki eases pain and supports traditional medicine and speeds up healing)
Distance Reiki on vacation (Reiki balances and offers deep relaxation)
Distance Reiki in any other situations that are special for you.

(From: http://www.reikikauai.com/distance.html)

~Reiki for Plants

2007-11-04T20:01:00.000-05:00

Plants Love Reiki!

Plants respond well to soothing music so you can imagine how they react to Reiki’s healing energy. They are naturally sensitive to energy and to touch and know right away what feels good to them and what doesn’t.

By giving Reiki to seeds before planting them, normally they will start to grow sooner, be stronger plants, and develop faster. Reiki practitioners pour water over their energy radiating hand as plants are watered, providing more energy to assist the growth process.

Reiki Natural Healing may be placed over the top of a plant affecting the leaves and blossoms, or may be administered by holding the container, which will send supporting life force energy to the roots.

For longer lasting cut flowers, Reiki practitioners soak the stems in water, snip the stems while still in water, then hold the stalks a few minutes. The flowers will draw in the energy, which will cause the water to rise towards the petals, resulting in the blooms lasting longer.

(from: http://www.reikikauai.com/plants.htm)

~Reiki for Athletes

2007-10-07T18:56:00.002-04:00

Whether regular gym goers, team players, or professional athletes, all deal with various kinds of pressure and stress. They face emotional and physical challenges, and hold a complex set of commitments to sponsors, teams, coaches, training plans -- all while managing their sports-related injuries and recovery.

Reiki can assist athletes’ natural healing abilities in these situations. It boosts the overall positive wellness of body and mind by healing the causes and so eliminating the effects of their imbalances. It restores and re-balances the person's natural energy.

This is the way that Reiki makes athletes be better prepared in body and mind for competition and athletic performance.

Develop A Winner's Mind

Sports performance is 50% physical training and 50% 'right thinking'. Without balance in the mind, there's no balance in the body.

Without a winners mentality, there's no gold metal. With Reiki, athletes will feel better, compete better, and are therefore more likely to improve records and win.

Reiki can help you develop a winners mind. The more Reiki flows through the body, the clearer the mind becomes.

On an mental/emotional level, Reiki also helps athletes with issues like managing fear and stress. For example, Reiki is great for reducing the stress of a much anticipated game and gets you energized for the event.

On a physical level, Reiki is preventative, preparatory, as well as helpful in post-performance, helping athletes' bodies heal and recover.

Aid Training

Reiki boosts memory.
Reiki improves concentration and focus. It helps centering the mind, freeing it from distraction.
Reiki helps relief muscle stiffness.

Boost Performance

Reiki can help individual athletes and sport teams strengthen

better team play: Reiki promotes harmony and hones intuition.
better individual play: Reiki helps manage fear and relaxes the body.
Reiki gives an energy boost when appropriate, and can make the body feel less tired.

(article by Astrid Lee, from http://www.therapeuticreiki.com/reikiforathletes.html)

about allisonjoy

2007-09-27T06:45:00.023-04:00

"allisonjoy is a fierce, gentle spirit - the way fire can manifest as a glowing ember to radiate a calm warmth, or a flickering flame that inspires and sheds light, or a snapping blaze that ignites and incites. she is a true, intuitive healer. she works with me, not on me."

~ Sarwat Rumi

allisonjoy is an internationally certified Reiki Master Practitioner, and has been committed to healing through Usui Shiki Ryoho Reiki since 2004. She comes from a family of medical doctors and nurses, and has found her calling in a different form of healing. She firmly believes in the benefits that holistic healthcare can provide on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels, and sees both western and holistic modalities as truly complementary forms. allisonjoy understands the necessity of creating sustainable and accessible ways to offer and integrate holistic health into people's daily practice, and focuses on serving women of color, social justice workers, and the LGBT community. In addition, she administers treatments to beloved pets- our cherished companions, and is working in partnership with The Paw Pad Training Center & Daycare (Union, NJ). A frequent visitor to Chicago, allisonjoy has worked with Rape Victim Advocates, The LGBT Center on Halsted, and has administered free Reiki treatments to survivors during Sexual Assualt Awareness Month sponsored by DePaul University's Women's & Gender Studies Department. Based in the New York/New Jersey area, she has collaborated with the New York LGBT Center's Lesbian Cancer Initiative, Casa Atabex Ache (Bronx), Queens Pride House, and the Audre Lorde Project (Brooklyn/Manhattan). She has offered her care all across the United States, and as far away as the Philippines.

Place "fierce" + "kind" in the same sentence & you'll probably find allisonjoy. Her continuous work is a demonstration of her passionate commitment to social justice, whether it was as National Recruiter for ACORN, Co-Founder of NYC-based media justice coalition R.E.A.C.Hip-Hop, organizer for Gabriela Network NY/NJ, or National Organizer & touring member of We Got Issues! She has organized, created events, facilitated leadership & empowerment trainings and anti-oppression workshops with youth, women, & people of color all about North America. allisonjoy is currently Road Manager and touring member of Mango Tribe, the country's first & only APIA women & genderqueer interdisciplinary social justice performance ensemble. Sista sings hard from the heart, knits&crochets when she's on the train, & offers healing as a Reiki Master Practicioner to her communities. This queer pinay-american believes in the strength of her sisters, community building, art as activism, grassroots organizing, thinking critically, loving honestly, linking arms with all oppressed peoples, and manifesting visions of liberation!

~Science & the Human Energy Field

2007-09-23T16:57:00.001-04:00

James Oschman is one of the leading authorities on the scientific understanding of hands-on healing. His extensive background as a scientist and his experience and understanding of holistic healing place him in a unique position to bridge the gap between the academic/medical world and the healing community. His book, Energy Medicine, and his soon-to-be-released new book, Energy Medicine in Therapeutics and Human Performance, are remarkable in the way they easily convey a scientific basis for hands-on healing. His work makes it easy for doctors and scientists to understand and accept Reiki, which is valuable for anyone wanting to place Reiki in hospitals or to work in a clinical or scientific setting. His fascinating ideas and insights give a
new perspective on how Reiki works which inspires us to make better use of our skills.

click here to read an interview between James Oschman & William LeeRand!

Other articles:
Scientific Explanation of Reiki

2007-08-13T21:28:00.000-04:00

~Cheryl Schwartz, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

allisonjoy reiki

Namaste...

~Reiki for Puppies & Dogs @ Sit. Stay. Play!

Articles on Reiki for Animals

Reiki & Animals: Creating a World of Wellness

Reiki in Minneapolis

~Reiki in Chicago!!! {Oct 13 - 22}

Treatment Application

~The Science Behind Reiki

~More Reiki Research: Stress & Depression

Stress and Your Health

A Sampling and Overview of Reiki and "Hands-On" Healing Research

Long-Term Effects of Energetic Healing on Symptoms of Psychological Depression and Self-Perceived Stress

Reiki in the News: University of Maryland Medical Center

SHOCK TRAUMA OFFERS ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT

Animal Reiki Misconceptions

Suggested Treatment Programs

Distant Treatments

In Person Reiki Treatments

Approaching Animals with Reiki

allisonjoy in Boston: an offering

Reiki for Pets & Animals

~Reiki for the LGBTQQI community!

~Reiki in NurseWeek.com

~The Effectiveness of Distance Reiki

~Reiki in Chicago: *extended stay until May 4th!*

~Reiki Sessions in Chicago @ DePaul University! (April 23 - 24 & 26-27)

~Reiki For Survivors of Sexual Assault

~Reiki & Self Defense

~Breast Cancer & Reiki

Stress and Your Health

A Sampling and Overview of Reiki and "Hands-On" Healing Research

Long-Term Effects of Energetic Healing on Symptoms of Psychological Depression and Self-Perceived Stress

Reiki Research & Scientific Studies

Yvonne's Reiki Story

~Reiki in University of Arizona College of Medicine Study

College of Medicine Researcher Studies Ancient Method for Modern-Day Healing

UA researcher aims to probe anecdotal evidence that Reiki accelerates healing.

~Reiki During Pregnancy & For Babies

Byosen Scanning Reiki Session

Hands-On Reiki Session

Sarwat's Reiki Story

Jill's Reiki Story

~Reiki & Stress Management

Stress on the Job

Scope of Stress in the American Workplace

~Reiki & Nursing

~Reiki as Preventative Medicine

~Reiki & Cancer Care

Reiki for your Pets

Animal Reiki Practitioner Code of Ethics

~Reiki in Hospitals

~Reiki from a Distance

~Reiki for Plants

~Reiki for Athletes

Develop A Winner's Mind

Aid Training

Boost Performance

about allisonjoy

~Science & the Human Energy Field

~Reiki in Chicago: extended stay until May 4th!