Reiki is a Japanese healing technique that is gaining recognition as a powerful complementary therapy for those recovering from mental health challenges and substance use disorders. Rooted in the concept of universal life energy, Reiki focuses on balancing the body’s energy to promote physical, emotional and spiritual healing.
As more people seek holistic approaches to recovery, Reiki offers a gentle, non-invasive method to support the healing process. This is why it’s one of many group therapies offered at Lotus Recovery. Our goal is to provide as many therapies as possible to support the healing process for our clients. This way, they can build a recovery plan that works for them while developing healthier coping mechanisms in the process.
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a form of energy healing that involves the transfer of universal life energy through the hands of a trained practitioner to the recipient. The word “Reiki” is derived from two Japanese words: “Rei,” meaning universal, and “Ki,” meaning life force energy.
During a Reiki session, the practitioner places their hands lightly on or just above the person’s body, channeling energy to areas where it’s most needed. This process is believed to help clear energy blockages, restore balance and promote healing on all levels—physical, emotional and spiritual. This is particularly beneficial for substance use and mental health disorders, as they are complex and affect every aspect of health.
Reiki for Mental Health Treatment
Reiki can be a valuable tool in the recovery journey for individuals facing mental health challenges. Here’s why we recommend incorporating it into many of our clients’ treatment plans:
Promotes Relaxation and Stress Reduction
Reiki induces a deep state of relaxation, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. This relaxation allows the body and mind to enter a healing state, where emotional burdens can be released. When people swallow their feelings instead, negative emotions can dwell deep within them, eventually causing stress, unhappiness and burnout.
Balances Emotions
Unresolved trauma can manifest as emotional or psychological distress. People who have experienced abuse or neglect, for example, are more likely to turn to substance use and other negative coping mechanisms to deal with the pain. Reiki provides a safe space for individuals to release trapped emotions and energy associated with trauma, facilitating emotional healing.
Supports Trauma Recovery
Holistic therapies address the whole person by considering their life and personality. They can be used when dealing with stress or coping with life’s challenges, preventing relapse and supporting a healthy recovery.
Complements Traditional Therapies
Reiki can be used alongside traditional mental health treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy and medication. It offers a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of mental health issues, rather than just the symptoms.
Reiki and Addiction Treatment in Thousand Oaks
Reiki is also a powerful tool for individuals recovering from substance use disorders. Here’s how it can support addiction recovery:
Reduces Cravings and Withdrawal Symptoms
Reiki can help alleviate the physical and emotional discomfort associated with withdrawal symptoms and cravings. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, Reiki can make the detoxification and initial recovery period more manageable.
Addresses the Root Causes of Addiction
Addiction is often driven by unresolved emotional pain or trauma. Reiki helps to release these emotional blockages, allowing individuals to heal from the inside out and address the underlying causes of their substance use. While environmental stressors, mental health challenges and trauma are common causes of drug or alcohol use, other issues could also be problematic such as specific personality traits, inherited genes and poor coping skills.
Supports Emotional Healing
Recovery from addiction involves significant emotional work. Reiki provides a gentle way to process and release negative emotions, fostering emotional resilience and helping individuals build a strong foundation for long-term recovery. In fact, some clients continue practicing Reiki with their friends and family when they transition home.
Promotes Inner Peace and Mindfulness
Reiki encourages a state of inner peace and mindfulness, which are essential for maintaining sobriety. By helping individuals stay grounded and centered, Reiki supports their ability to navigate the challenges of recovery with greater ease.
How Reiki Fits Into Your Recovery Plan
While Reiki offers significant benefits, it is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive recovery plan that includes traditional therapies, support groups and healthy lifestyle choices. The licensed mental health professionals and addiction treatment counselors will collaborate with you to help you understand the benefits of Reiki and how it can aid in your recovery efforts.
Reiki provides a gentle, yet powerful, approach to supporting recovery from mental health challenges and substance use disorders. By promoting relaxation, emotional healing and spiritual growth, Reiki can help you achieve greater balance and well-being on your recovery journey. Contact Lotus Recovery to learn more about Reiki and our other holistic therapies that can be added to your treatment plan.