Reiki is the practice of sending universal energies for healing purposes to a patient. Reiki is administered by a Reiki Master-Teacher who has been traditionally certified by another Reiki Master-Teacher. The practitioner uses a combination of meditating on symbols, crystal grids and hand positions to harness and concentrate the energies to the patient.
There are seven different chakras that are usually focused on. The crown chakra, the root chakra, the solar plexus, the heart, the throat and the brow or third eye chakra are commonly used in Reiki.
Reiki is used during the first stages of pregnancy to relieve the stress and illness that the mother is feeling. Morning sickness and the stress of the body changing can be harmful to the mother's aura. Reiki can restore the balance and health to the mother.
Common chakras concentrated on during this time are the third eye chakra and the solar plexus chakra, as well as the Sacral Chakra. These chakras correspond to the head, abdomen and reproductive organs, respectively.
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.
