As a Reiki practitioner, you know how helpful this healing technique can be in individual lives. But in these turbulent times, whole communities can often be in need of support.
Opportunities to share Reiki with your neighbors (or even those halfway across the world) can present themselves during times of tragedy, following natural disasters, or as a result of everyday needs.
Personally, I have participated in offering Reiki to help support communities around the world.
- Living only 35 miles north of New York City at the time, I volunteered my services to fire fighters and first responders at Ground Zero following the 9/11 tragedy. Though difficult, offering Reiki just days after the attack allowed me to feel helpful in supporting those who had given so much. Reiki support groups in nearby Westchester County assisted those who experienced fear and loss.
- Presenting at an After Loss Grief Conference in Stamford, CT, I demonstrated how Reiki can be a support during the grieving process. We had an entire room of Reiki practitioner volunteers offering Reiki. Recipients stated they experienced a sense of calm. Family members reported not seeing them relaxed in this way since the death of their loved one.
- I have organized Reiki Practitioners to offer Reiki and meditation to support senior citizens at our local community center.
After the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami we organized “A Day of Healing and Hope for Japan” offering Reiki and energy healing sessions.
Reiki in Medical Settings
Reiki is now being used in hospitals, hospices, and medical settings. In 2007, 15% of American hospitals (more than 800 facilities) offered Reiki as a hospital service (source). A more recent survey, done by IARP, states 60% of America’s top 25 hospitalsoffer formal and informal Reiki programs with Reiki being in the top three complimentary therapies offered. Of those hospitals, 67% stated they believe Reiki is highly beneficial to their patients.
Since Reiki is a touch therapy, mini-Reiki treatments can be incorporated into the course of patient care for nurses and similar professionals. Sloan Kettering offers Reiki to patients and teaches monthly Reiki training to patients and caregivers. Phelps Memorial Hospital Hospice in Tarrytown, NY has a Reiki volunteer program.
Reiki self-treatment for the caregiver is a quick and meaningful way for professionals in all healthcare settings to receive stress relief and diminish burnout. Many Reiki practitioners offer their services to those experiencing cancer, who report increased relaxation and decreased side effects from their treatments.
Want to bring Reiki into your Community?
Assess the need and start a group yourself or contact local organizations like hospitals, hospice and palliative care, senior centers, pet shelters, American Legion, VA, cancer support groups, Gilda’s Club, food banks, or Meals on Wheels (you can Reiki the food!).
What is your favorite cause or charity? Contact them and volunteer or propose a program! Opportunities abound.
Need some inspiration? Check out Volunteer Match to find local nonprofits and organizations in your area.
