Reiki During Cancer Treatment

Reiki can be an incredibly supportive complement to cancer treatment by addressing the emotional, mental, and energetic aspects of healing. A cancer diagnosis can stir a wide range of emotions—fear, grief, anger, sadness, uncertainty, even guilt or shame. I remember feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, and disconnected from myself and others. Reiki offered me a safe, nonjudgmental space to simply be with those emotions.

Stress and Anxiety Reduction

During a Reiki session, the gentle touch of the practitioner can create a sense of being held and supported—without the need for words or explanations. This alone can be deeply soothing and validating for someone who feels isolated or emotionally raw. Reiki doesn’t attempt to “fix” emotions but allows them to surface and move through the body naturally, often bringing a sense of lightness or emotional release afterward. Many patients report feeling calmer, more balanced, and less reactive after sessions. This emotional grounding can help them navigate the highs and lows of treatment and recovery with more resilience.

Supporting the Body’s Natural Healing Response

Cancer treatment often activates a prolonged state of “fight or flight,” putting immense pressure on the nervous system. Reiki induces the relaxation response, shifting the body into a parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) state. In this state, heart rate slows, blood pressure drops, digestion improves, and the body is better able to focus on repair and recovery.

This deep relaxation can support sleep, reduce fatigue, and help the body regain balance—crucial for healing and energy restoration.

Pain and Symptom Management

Many cancer patients experience pain, nausea, neuropathy, and discomfort from treatment. Reiki has been used in hospital settings to reduce perception of pain and physical tension, possibly by encouraging the release of endorphins and calming the body’s stress signals. While not a substitute for medical pain management, Reiki can serve as a complementary relief modality, enhancing comfort and reducing reliance on medication for some patients.

Emotional and Spiritual Support

Reiki can provide comfort on a soul level. It allows patients to reconnect with a sense of peace, purpose, and inner stillness, which can be especially important when facing the existential and emotional weight of cancer. These moments of inner stillness can help patients feel less alone, more empowered, and more trusting of their body's innate wisdom. People often rediscover a sense of meaning, grace, or clarity amidst the chaos.