Reiki is a Japanese energy healing technique that channels universal life force energy to promote balance and overall well-being. By placing hands on or near specific chakra points, a reiki practitioner can help remove stagnant or excessive energy, restoring a harmonious flow throughout the body’s energy centers. This gentle and non-invasive approach supports the body’s natural ability to heal, helping to alleviate stress, reduce inflammation and restore homeostasis. Reiki has been associated with improved sleep, enhanced mood, relaxation, anxiety reduction, chronic pain management and overall wellness.

In the traditional healthcare model, clinical assessments focus primarily on physical symptoms, such as pain location, duration and alleviating factors. Standard treatments often include prescriptions, imaging and referrals to physical therapy, with follow-up visits scheduled if symptoms persist. However, conventional medicine does not typically address potential dysfunction related to energy imbalances within the chakra system. Integrating reiki as a complementary practice offers an opportunity to support traditional medical treatments by addressing the energetic aspects of health.

Each of the seven chakras corresponds to different anatomical structures, and balancing these energy centers may enhance the effectiveness of conventional healthcare interventions.

• Root Chakra: Adrenal glands, base of the spine, feet, large intestine

• Sacral Plexus: Ovaries, testicles, pelvis, appendix, bladder, kidneys

• Solar Plexus: Pancreas, adrenals, abdomen, liver, intestines, gallbladder, spleen

• Heart Chakra: Thymus, heart, lungs, shoulders, arms, breasts, diaphragm

• Throat Chakra: Thyroid, parathyroid, esophagus, teeth, neck, hands

• Third Eye Chakra: Pineal gland, brain, eyes, ears, nose

• Crown Chakra: Pituitary gland, skin, central nervous system

Each chakra follows a unique developmental timeline and retains energy from past experiences. Reiki helps clear unwanted energy, allowing the body’s natural systems to function optimally. By fostering awareness of the connection between energetic balance and physical health, individuals can take a more proactive role in their overall wellness.

Reiki continues to gain recognition as a valuable complement to conventional health care, offering a holistic approach that addresses both physical and energetic aspects of well-being. As interest in integrative healing methods grows, reiki serves as a powerful tool for supporting the body’s natural healing processes.

Katie O’Shea, PT, DPT, MBA, GCS, CDP, CCRP, has been a practicing physical therapist since 2006. Her goal is to bring awareness to reiki as a modality to improve function and wellness. For more information, visit www.DrKatieOShea.com.