by Amy Alward | Sep 17, 2025 | Cancer Navigators, Complementary Medicine, Distance Healing, Distance Healing 101, Featured Posts, Healing Practices, Reiki, Reiki, Reiki Sessions
Living with chronic pain, anxiety, or the challenges of cancer treatment can leave anyone searching for safe, supportive options. Reiki—an energy-based complementary therapy practiced both in person and at a distance—has been studied for its potential to reduce pain, ease anxiety, and enhance quality of life. While Reiki (and Distance Healing) is not a substitute for medical care, several peer-reviewed studies and meta-analyses suggest it may provide meaningful support alongside conventional treatment. In this article, we’ll walk through recent scientific findings, explain what those numbers mean in plain language, and link directly to reputable sources so you can explore the evidence for yourself.
What are Reiki and Distance Healing?
Reiki is a gentle, energy-based therapy that supports the body’s natural healing processes. Practiced both in person and at a distance, Reiki works with the subtle energy running through the body to help reduce stress, ease discomfort, and promote overall well-being. Importantly, Reiki is a complementary technique—not a replacement for medical care—and can be used alongside conventional treatments to support healing and quality of life.
At Whole Self Unity, our mission is to serve individuals in need by offering treatments, classes, and a supportive community for those exploring alternative and complementary therapies. Our professional, expert staff of volunteers and generous donors assure that our services are affordable to those in need, regardless of financial means. We currently focus on supporting women on a cancer journey and their support teams, helping them find safe, low-risk options to complement their medical care and enhance their overall well-being.
Why Look at the Science? (We LOVE skeptics!)
Visual summary of peer-reviewed study findings on Reiki’s potential to support pain relief, stress reduction, and well-being.
It’s natural to be curious—and skeptical—about practices like Reiki and Distance Healing. Scientific research helps separate what is promising from what is anecdotal, giving you a clearer picture of potential benefits. While studies in this field vary in size and design, several peer-reviewed trials and meta-analyses suggest that Reiki may support pain relief, reduce anxiety, and improve quality of life.
Understanding the numbers doesn’t have to be intimidating. Researchers often report findings using terms like effect size (how large the difference is between treatment and control groups in a meta analysis) or confidence intervals (the range in which the true effect likely falls). Meta-analyses combine results from multiple studies to look for patterns across populations. When a study reports that a confidence interval crosses zero, it means the effect is not statistically definitive—but the trends can still offer useful insights. This can be especially useful to researchers to know how to design their next study to offer more clear or better insights. In addition, these trends can help those of us who are skeptical and exploring to better understand how these techniques might be beneficial to us as individuals. Unfortunately, one study cannot prove anything, but each study can reveal little slivers of truth over time.
By examining the research carefully, you can weigh the current evidence for yourself. This section will walk you through a few key studies, explain what the numbers mean in plain language, and highlight both the promise and the limitations of Reiki as a complementary therapy.
Highlighting Evidence: What Studies Show
While no single study can definitively prove Reiki’s effects, research offers glimpses into its potential benefits—small windows into how it might support well-being during stressful times, chronic pain, or cancer treatment. Here, we highlight a few key studies that provide meaningful insight.
1. Liu et al., 2025 – Meta-Analysis on Quality of Life
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What it studied: This meta-analysis reviewed randomized trials of Reiki for improving self-reported quality of life.
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What it found: Repeated Reiki sessions (?8) were associated with improved quality of life scores.
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Plain-language takeaway: Participants who received multiple sessions reported feeling better overall in daily life, suggesting that consistency may matter. As a meta-analysis these results were found by comparing multiple, independent studies that were published across the topic over time.
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Read the study: Effects of Reiki therapy on quality of life: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
2. Large RCT in Palliative Cancer Care (Utli / Buyukbayram, 2023)
3. ?i?man et al., 2023 – Sham-Controlled Surgical Randomized Clinical Trial
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What it studied: Abdominal surgery patients were randomized to a. Reiki, b. sham (placebo) Reiki, or c. standard care (no Reiki or placebo), Anxiety, fear, and pain were measured across these three treatment groups.
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What it found: The Reiki group experienced lower anxiety, fear, and pain than both the sham (placebo) and control (no Reiki or placebo Reiki) groups.
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Plain-language takeaway: Reiki appears to have effects beyond placebo (which would have shown similar results for the sham or placebo treatment group), at least in this controlled surgical setting.
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Read the study: The effect of reiki on anxiety, fear, pain, and oxygen saturation in abdominal surgery patients: A randomized controlled trial.
Visual representation of a distance Reiki session, showing energy flow from practitioner to recipient across technology.
I could go on, but these studies establish the possibilities of how best to apply Reiki or Distance Healing to aid in pain relief, anxiety reduction, and to improve quality of life. Energy healing as an addition to medical or mental health issues is non-invasive and presents little risk of harm (that’s a whole other set of studies–let me know if you want more information). When evaluating scientific studies, look for published articles in peer-reviewed outlets, that are recently published, and are frequently cited. For non-researchers these basic guidelines will help you sort out better studies to rely upon when gathering information.
Key points to keep in mind:
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Effect sizes (ES) indicate magnitude, not certainty that an effect (a difference from the treatment examined across multiple studies)
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Confidence intervals (CIs) show the plausible range of effects; overlapping CIs suggest that a different study or sample could have somewhat different results.
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Trends across multiple studies are encouraging but not conclusive; more research is always needed to fully understand who benefits most and under what conditions. This isn’t something particular to Reiki research, but simply the scientific method in action.
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Reiki is complementary—best used alongside conventional medical care rather than as a replacement.
Supporting Studies & Context
In addition to the core studies highlighted above, several earlier studies provide context and help us understand the evolution of research on Reiki and distance healing. While these are older studies, they can be a way to review the history of this research area (also called a literature review). Certain papers can provide the foundations for methods applied in a study (what population was used, how to test the treatment applied, and how to measure outcomes before and after treatment to calculate results). Here are two older studies that are frequently cited in ongoing research that establish common methods in this literature stream.
Olson et al., 2003 – Phase II Trial in Advanced Cancer Patients
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What it studied: Patients with advanced cancer received either standard opioid treatment with rest or standard care plus Reiki. Pain, quality of life, and physical measures were tracked over one week.
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What it found: The Reiki group reported reductions in pain on treatment days and improvements in overall quality of life, though physical measures and medication use did not differ.
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Takeaway: Even small studies from two decades ago suggested that Reiki could enhance patient-reported well-being during cancer treatment. This paper also serves as an extensive literature review of studies available in 2003, making it a useful starting point for researchers or curious skeptics. Readers who want to explore the evolution of Reiki research can begin here and then follow the subsequent studies that built on this early work.
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Read the study: Effect of Reiki Therapy on Pain and Anxiety in Adults: An In-Depth Literature Review of Randomized Trials with Effect Size Calculations.
Thrane & Cohen, 2014 – Literature Review with Effect Size Calculations
Contextual Summary:
These supporting studies show that Reiki research has been ongoing for decades, and consistent themes—such as reductions in anxiety, support for pain management, and improvements in quality of life—emerge even in smaller or early trials.
By reviewing both recent and older studies, it becomes clear that evidence is gradually building: no single study proves effectiveness, but the body of work provides a reasoned basis for exploring Reiki as a complementary therapy.
Given that the risks of receiving Reiki, distance healing, or other forms of energy healing are low—these practices are non-invasive, do not reduce the effectiveness of ongoing medical treatment, and have no evidence of worsening conditions—there is support for trying them as an AND to regular care, to help you feel better and support your well-being.
Understanding the Numbers: Effect Sizes, Confidence Intervals and Sham Controls (oh my!)
Reading scientific studies can feel overwhelming, but understanding a few key concepts can help you interpret the findings with more confidence.
Effect Size (ES): Effect size measures the magnitude of a difference between groups—how much impact Reiki had in a study. A larger effect size indicates a greater observed difference, but it does not guarantee that the effect is certain or universal. As a guideline:
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An ES of 0.1–0.3 is considered small, meaning the treatment appears to have some effect, but the real-world impact is likely modest.
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An ES of 0.5 or greater indicates a larger magnitude of effect across studies, suggesting a more substantial impact.
Confidence Interval (CI): A confidence interval shows the range in which the true effect is likely to fall. If a CI overlaps zero, it suggests that a different sample or study could produce different results. When multiple studies show consistent trends, our confidence that there is a real effect increases.
It’s important to remember that statistical results can disprove relationships but rarely “prove” them outright. Proof requires repeated confirmation across changing situations. However, the right statistical tests can logically show that a result is either highly unlikely or effectively impossible, giving us strong evidence to guide decisions.
Sham or Placebo Controls: Some studies include a “sham Reiki” group to account for placebo effects. If Reiki shows benefits beyond the sham group, it suggests that the practice itself—not just expectation or attention—is contributing to the outcomes.
Putting it together: By looking at effect sizes, confidence intervals, and sham controls, readers can weigh how compelling the evidence is. While science can’t prove anything with a single study, repeated glimpses across multiple studies provide a reasoned basis for exploring Reiki as a complementary therapy alongside conventional care.
Why Reiki Might Be Worth Trying
Symbolic image of hands holding the Earth and connecting in a global circle, representing community, energy healing, and support.
For those navigating chronic pain, anxiety, or cancer treatment, Reiki and distance healing offer a low-risk, complementary approach that can support your overall well-being. Research suggests that regular Reiki sessions may help reduce stress, ease discomfort, and improve quality of life. (Who couldn’t use a little of that kind of help?)
Because Reiki is non-invasive, gentle, and compatible with medical care, it can be explored as an AND—not a replacement—for conventional treatments. Many recipients report feeling more relaxed, centered, and able to cope with challenging symptoms. However, we still recommend talking to your primary provider if you are undergoing significant care and are unsure. We’re here to offer options, not to proscribe treatment!
At Whole Self Unity, we focus on making Reiki accessible. Thanks to generous donors and volunteer support, we provide affordable sessions and classes, helping individuals who might otherwise lack access to complementary therapies. Our mission is to serve women on a cancer journey and their support teams, offering a safe, supportive space to explore Reiki and other energy-based practices.
Practical tips if you decide to try Reiki:
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Consider starting with multiple sessions, as studies suggest repeated treatments may yield stronger benefits.
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Keep track of how you feel before and after each session—journaling or reflecting can help you notice subtle improvements. At Whole Self Unity, we also collect this information through intake and follow-up forms for each session. This allows us to share summary results with donors, funders, and volunteers to show how their support is helping people feel better. Individual responses are never shared, only aggregate trends across all recipients.
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Approach Reiki as part of a holistic self-care plan alongside medical care, rest, nutrition, and emotional support.
Exploring Reiki can be a simple, low-pressure step toward feeling better, supporting both mind and body during challenging times.
Transparency and Next Steps
We believe that curiosity and informed decision-making go hand-in-hand. That’s why we provide direct links to all the studies cited in this article, so you can read the research for yourself and explore the evidence in detail. Understanding the data helps you weigh Reiki as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical care.
If you’re considering trying Reiki or distance healing, start with small steps: a session, a reflection, and tracking how you feel. Our goal is to make these therapies safe, affordable, and accessible, especially for women on a cancer journey and their support teams. Thanks to generous donors and volunteers, most sessions are available at low or no cost.
You can also join our email list to receive updates on Reiki classes, workshops, and wellness sessions. Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or actively seeking complementary support, learning, exploring, and tracking your experience can help you make the choices that are right for your life.
Resources and Studies Referenced in This Article:
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Liu K, et al. Effects of Reiki therapy on quality of life: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Syst Rev. 2025. Open-access link
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Utli & Buyukbayram, 2023. Stage III–IV cancer patients and Reiki RCT. PubMed link
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?i?man et al., 2023. Sham-controlled surgical Reiki study. PubMed link
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Olson et al., 2003. Phase II trial of Reiki in advanced cancer patients. Link to PDF
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Thrane & Cohen, 2014. Effect of Reiki therapy on pain and anxiety in adults: literature review with effect sizes. Link on ScienceDirect
Conclusion: Exploring Reiki as a Complementary Support
Research over the past two decades suggests that Reiki and distance healing can help reduce pain, ease anxiety, and improve quality of life—especially when used alongside conventional medical care. While no single study proves effectiveness, the growing body of evidence provides a reasoned basis for considering Reiki as a supportive, low-risk option.
Symbolizing love, support, and energy flow, this image reflects the calming and restorative effects of Reiki.
If you’re curious or looking for additional ways to feel better during challenging times, consider exploring Reiki or distance healing sessions. At Whole Self Unity, we offer affordable, accessible treatments, classes, and a supportive community, with a special focus on women on a cancer journey and their support teams.
You can:
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Book a Reiki session and experience the benefits firsthand–or browse this page to find out more, apply for wellness funds or ready about our practitioners.
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Join our email list to stay informed about classes, workshops, and wellness sessions OR volunteer and join our team.
- Browse upcoming Event offerings to come to a Reiki share, a monthly workshop, a quarterly online healing, or register for a Reiki class.
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Explore the studies linked in this article to learn more about the research for yourself.
- Download our FREE guide (PDF) to help prepare for an energy healing session–whether you book with us or another practitioner. This guide helps you set intentions, reflect afterward, and integrate your experience.
Trying Reiki as an AND to regular care may help you feel more relaxed, supported, and empowered in your journey toward feeling better. We hope to meet you soon!
by Moana Schwertsik | Aug 13, 2025 | Cancer Navigators, Distance Healing 101, Featured Posts, Uncategorized
“Healing Journey: How Consistency & Reflection Can Support Chronic Pain Recovery”
Consistency is part of the healing. Schedule your session and receive what you need.
When I first began my healing journey, I wasn’t looking to become a practitioner. I was simply trying to live without pain.
I had been struggling with chronic pain for years, and honestly, I had reached a point where I couldn’t imagine life without it. There’s a particular kind of weariness that comes with long-term pain—a sense of hopelessness, frustration, and sometimes even despair. If you’re reading this and you’ve been there too, I want you to know: I see you. I understand. I’ve been there.
It was during that time that I discovered the work I now offer to others. I didn’t know what to expect from my first few sessions, but I kept showing up. Gradually—sometimes quietly, sometimes dramatically—something began to shift. My body started to release tension I didn’t even realize I was holding. I noticed changes in my sleep, my energy, my ability to focus. And most importantly, I began to experience moments—then hours, then days—without pain.
That transformation was the catalyst for everything that followed. I became deeply curious about how this healing worked, and I knew I needed to learn more. Over the years, I trained in several complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) modalities, including CranioSacral Therapy, Polarity Therapy, and Distance Healing. What started as a personal journey has become my life’s work—and now, I have the honor of supporting others on their own path to healing.
Healing is a shared journey. You don’t have to do it alone.
Healing Is a Journey, Not a Quick Fix
Something I want every client to understand—whether you’re brand new to this work or returning for support—is that healing is a process. While it’s absolutely possible to feel major shifts after just one session, many people find that the real transformation happens over time. That’s not because the work is slow or ineffective, but because we are layered beings.
Sometimes, the body prioritizes which pain to release first. We might begin by addressing a chronic headache, and after it improves, we realize there’s long-held tension in the jaw, neck, or even emotional patterns that were silently contributing. It’s not uncommon for one session to “peel back” a layer of discomfort, only for the next layer to come into focus.
This isn’t a setback—it’s a sign that your system is working with the process. Your body and nervous system are doing something profound: learning to trust again. Releasing, adjusting, restoring.
Why Consistency Matters
Each session builds on the last. With consistent care, we create a foundation where deeper healing can take place. It’s not about “fixing” you—it’s about listening to what your body needs and supporting its natural ability to heal.
If you’re someone who has lived with chronic pain or emotional overwhelm, you may have learned to ignore subtle signals from your body just to get through the day. That’s a powerful survival mechanism, but healing asks something different—it invites you to begin noticing again, gently and with curiosity.
And here’s something important to remember: consistency doesn’t mean you must commit to only one type of therapy. There are many healing modalities available, and sometimes a combination of approaches is exactly what your system needs. At Whole Self Unity, we offer a range of options—distance healing sessions, workshops, and classes—to support different needs and healing styles. I encourage you to explore and see what resonates most with your journey. But healing isn’t linear. Every step forward counts.
Download your free guide to prepare for a powerful Distance Healing session.
You’re Not Alone
One of the greatest gifts of this work is connection—to your body, your spirit, and to a practitioner who truly understands what you’re going through. I’ve walked this path myself, and because of that, I hold deep compassion for anyone navigating the complexities of healing.
I’m not here to offer miracles—I’m here to offer grounded, supportive care rooted in experience, both personal and professional. Whether you need one session or many, I’ll walk alongside you. I trust the wisdom of this work, and I trust your body’s natural capacity to heal.
To help you move forward with confidence, we’ve created a Distance Healing Prep & Integration Toolkit—a free guide to support your energy before, during, and after your session. Inside, you’ll find helpful prompts, journaling space, and gentle practices to help you reflect and integrate.
Ready to Begin?
If you’re curious about how Distance Healing or other integrative therapies can support your healing journey, I invite you to book a session or reach out with your questions.
Still wondering what Distance Healing is or how it works? This blog post might have the answers you’re looking for.
You don’t have to walk this path alone—and you don’t have to live with pain forever.
Book a Clinic Session Here
Connect with Us
From pain to purpose — how energy healing changed Moana’s life.
Final Thought: Reflect on Your Journey
Healing invites us not only to feel better but to know ourselves more deeply. After a session, give yourself time to pause and reflect. What shifted? What emerged? What feels lighter? Often, it’s in these quiet moments that lasting change begins.
With gentle care,
Moana Schwertsik
Distance Healing | CranioSacral Therapy | Polarity Therapy | Whole Self Unity
Healing is a journey—and you don’t have to walk it alone.
When you join our email list, you’ll receive thoughtful resources, event updates, and behind-the-scenes insights into Whole Self Unity’s offerings. Whether you’re just beginning or deepening your path, there’s something here for you.
by Amy Alward | Jul 30, 2025 | Cancer Navigators, Distance Healing 101, Featured Posts, Reiki, Reiki Classes, Reiki Events
The Benefits of Self-Healing with Reiki
You have struggled, but now is the time to reveal your beauty and open to your own wisdom.
What if a few minutes of gentle touch each day could help you sleep better, ease anxiety, and find your center—even on the hardest days?
Whether you’re navigating a cancer journey, recovering from burnout, living with chronic illness, or simply feeling called to reconnect with your body and spirit, Reiki offers a powerful yet gentle way to support your healing.
At Whole Self Unity, we’ve seen firsthand how women with cancer have used Reiki to calm themselves before treatments, soothe pain, rest more deeply, and reconnect with inner strength. But the beauty of Reiki is that it’s not only something you receive—it’s something you can learn and use every day to care for yourself.
This post explores how learning Reiki for self-healing can benefit anyone, especially during times of transition, illness, stress, or deep personal growth. You’ll also find an invitation to join us—whether that means coming to a Reiki Share, learning to give Reiki to yourself, or simply saying yes to a new kind of support.
What Is Self-Healing with Reiki?
Reiki is a gentle, hands-on (or hands-hovering) healing practice that helps balance the body’s energy system. Rooted in Japanese spiritual tradition, Reiki can be shared with others—but one of its most life-changing aspects is how it empowers us to heal ourselves.
Once you’ve been attuned to Reiki in a class or training, it’s with you for life. That means you can place your hands on your own heart, belly, or body whenever you need grounding, rest, peace, or strength.
Self-healing with Reiki is like an energetic version of brushing your teeth: it helps you stay clear, present, and nourished in a world that can feel overwhelming. It needs to be done regularly to get the best benefits from the practice. It is a gentle, effective way to increase your sense of well-being and overall health–but it generally isn’t a substitute for quality care by professionals when more intervention is needed. It does make an incredible addition to your self-care routines–even when the “big stuff” comes along.
Why Reiki Is Ideal for Long-Term Support
Are you ready to step toward your best self right now? Reiki I for Self-Healing.
Many clients and students describe Reiki as the first time they’ve felt like they could do something for themselves in the face of intense circumstances. It’s a portable, side-effect-free, body-honoring practice that:
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Can be done anywhere, even lying in bed
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Is safe to use alongside conventional medicine
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Doesn’t require belief—just willingness
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Builds strength over time with regular use – as we become better at allowing it to work!
Whether you’re managing your energy after a medical procedure, recovering from trauma, dealing with sleep issues, or navigating emotional overwhelm, Reiki meets you where you are—without judgment.
5 Benefits of Learning Reiki for Self-Healing
1. Ease Anxiety and Regulate Emotions
Reiki helps settle the nervous system, making it easier to ride the waves of stress, appointments, emotional processing, and daily uncertainty.
For women going through cancer treatment, it can become a comforting ritual before scans or surgery. For others, it’s a way to ground before meetings, caregiving tasks, or life’s more chaotic moments.
2. Sleep More Soundly
A short self-Reiki session at night can cue the body into rest mode. Many students fall asleep while practicing!
People with chronic pain or insomnia report deeper, more restorative sleep with consistent practice.
3. Make Clearer, Healthier Choices
Reiki gently increases self-awareness. Over time, this can lead to choosing foods, boundaries, and relationships that better support your healing.
We’ve seen survivors of trauma, cancer, and burnout begin to trust their own needs and instincts again.
4. Build a Grounding Practice That Sticks
Reiki can be paired with meditation, prayer, or breathwork—or practiced on its own. Even 5 minutes in the morning can anchor you before the day begins. Taking 30 seconds to yourself in the bathroom before continuing with an overwhelming day can bring you back to yourself in the present instead of worrying about the path ahead.
Those with ADHD, autoimmune conditions, or anxiety often say Reiki helps them slow down and focus without needing to “do it perfectly.”
Self-Healing with Beginning Reiki Class can be the catalyst to shifting your whole reality.
5. Get Through the Hardest Days with Gentle Power
From chemotherapy to grief, caregiving to recovery, Reiki offers a soft, steady presence. It can soothe physical discomfort, emotional turbulence, and that deep inner ache that longs for peace.
For many, it’s a daily reminder: You are not alone—and you are not powerless.
You Can Learn Reiki Yourself
You don’t need to be “spiritual,” a healer, or anything other than yourself to learn Reiki. You don’t need to “believe” in anything, Reiki is a set of practical techniques and tools, not a belief system. That being said, Reiki also works right alongside all belief systems, if you happen to have a spiritual “Home”. All are welcome to heal here.
In our Reiki I course, we teach you how to:
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Give yourself a complete Reiki session
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Understand the history and ethics of Reiki
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Begin using Reiki for your own wellness goals
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Start sensing energy and tuning into your inner wisdom
Once you’ve taken a Reiki I class, your hands become lifelong tools for healing and peace. And you’ll always have something to come back to when life gets overwhelming.
Interested in learning Reiki? Join our next Reiki I class and begin your self-healing journey.
Reiki Shares: Heal in Community
Sometimes, we need the support of others. Our monthly Reiki Shares are open to anyone, even if you haven’t learned Reiki yet. We also love to see practitioners: anyone who has learned Reiki (even years ago!) is especially welcome. It’s a chance to give and receive healing in a supportive circle—online or in person.
“I didn’t know how much I needed this until I logged on. I could feel it start to flow over me. So much peace and love!” – Reiki Share participant
You’re invited. Come receive. Come reconnect. Come share your light.
Sign up for a Reiki Share and join our community of healing hearts.
Calling All Practitioners, Caregivers, and Change-Makers
Are you ready to unlock your potential to help yourself heal? Slowly, gently, and quietly?
If you’ve been attuned to Reiki and want to be of service—especially to women on a cancer journey—we welcome you to volunteer, refer students, loved ones, or deepen your practice with us.
We are building a beautiful network of support and care. Whether you’re just getting started or decades into your Reiki path, there’s a place for you here.
Join our community and help bring healing into wholeness. Refer women on a cancer journey (or members of their support team) to apply for a sliding scale treatment through our Cancer Wellness Fund.
Closing: A New Way to Be With Yourself
Whether you’re sitting in a treatment chair, curled up in bed, or taking a few deep breaths between errands, Reiki can be there with you. Gentle. Steady. Unfailingly kind.
And if you’re feeling called to explore self-healing with Reiki, we’re here to help you begin.
Your journey matters. Your healing matters. And your hands—yes, your hands—can become the doorway to peace.
Next Steps for You:
by Amy Alward | Jul 23, 2025 | Cancer Navigators, Distance Healing 101, Reiki Sessions
When you need help most, Whole Self Unity can meet you where you are.
Stay Home and Heal? Yes, Please!
What if healing didn’t mean getting in the car, battling traffic, or sitting in a fluorescent-lit waiting room? Meeting a whole bunch of new people all at once?
What if it simply meant lying down in your own bed, wrapped in a favorite blanket, hugged by your most cozy hoodie—and just let the comfort come to you?
At Whole Self Unity, we believe healing should be as accessible, gentle, and intuitive as possible. That’s why we offer distance-based energy healing sessions designed for people who need support—but may not be able to leave home.
Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, navigating trauma, or simply feeling overwhelmed by life, you deserve healing that meets you exactly where you are—no commute, no pressure, no mask required. (And you don’t have to turn your camera on, change out of that cozy hoodie–we do not judge you when you are vulnerable and asking for support. We will just support you.)
Why Accessibility in Healing Matters
Too often, people are excluded from care because of their body’s limits or life’s logistics.
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Chronic pain or fatigue makes even a short trip exhausting.
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Sensory sensitivity or trauma triggers can turn healing spaces into minefields.
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Post-surgical recovery, migraines, or injuries may require rest, not activity.
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Single moms, caregivers, and those without transportation may simply not have the time or means to go.
These are not small barriers. They’re real, and they deserve real solutions.
What Makes Distance Healing So Accessible
Keep your comforts around you as your Whole Self Unity session begins.
Our sessions are conducted via phone or video—or even with a quiet text check-in beforehand. Here’s what makes them so supportive:
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No travel needed – stay in your PJs, curl up in your favorite chair, or lie down with a heating pad.
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Sensory-safe – no bright lights, loud music, or strange smells—just you in your chosen environment.
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No physical contact – ideal for those with trauma, touch sensitivity, or medical devices.
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Sleep-friendly – many clients fall asleep mid-session. That’s perfect. That’s healing.
As one of our clients recently said:
“I didn’t even realize how much stress came from just getting to the appointment. This way, I actually relaxed.”
Who Can Benefit from Healing at Home?
We’ve supported a wide range of people who’ve found relief, comfort, and renewal through accessible healing practices, including:
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Women undergoing cancer treatment – rest in your healing cocoon while receiving gentle support
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People living with migraines or headaches – no need to move, just receive in the dark and stillness
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Post-surgical recovery – let the body heal while we support your energy systems
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Those with chronic illness or fatigue – save energy while accessing care
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Autistic or sensory-sensitive folks – no unpredictable environments, just comfort
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Busy caregivers, moms, and partners – fit healing into your day without logistics
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Rural or remote clients – healing without distance as a barrier
Are you ready to receive rest, and drift right into healing sleep from your therapy appointment?
A Word of Caution about Getting a Distance Healing Session
Distance Healing, Energy Healing, or Reiki Sessions are best to help your body come to balance, and in that state of rest, the systems of your body, heart, mind, spirit can leave a state of overstimulation and return to a regular flow. I have witnessed and experienced truly miraculous healings, that my scientific mind cannot explain. Those things are within the realm of possibility. The Universe is full of all of the possibilities. However, most treatments are simply every day aids to comfort, balance, and system reset. What we offer is an ADDITIONAL practice to aid in your healing and relief. We do not offer these sessions as a replacement to medical care, medications, or other supports your advanced healthcare providers have recommended for you. If you are also on board with that, we would love to work with you to compliment your care.
What a Distance Healing Session Is Like
Every session begins with intention. You might be invited to light a candle, take a few deep breaths, or simply lie down.
Then, your practitioner will begin sending healing energy. You may feel:
Are you ready to be met where you are, with the therapies you need to add to regular medical care?
Some clients feel the shift immediately. Others notice it later—like better sleep, softer emotions, reduced pain, or a clearer head the next day. There is no one set of physical, emotional, mental, or even spiritual responses.
Every session can be very different from the last one, because your needs in the present will be different from the past.
Also, we can also add our expectations to the mix. The most disappointing sessions I have ever had as a Reiki practitioner and recipient were the ones I had been anticipating would be life-altering, and they end up being very helpful, just more restful and serene. Then I realize that I am only disappointed because my expectations needed to be set aside going in, simply letting the session meet my current and present needs.
You Deserve Healing That Meets You Where You Are
We created Whole Self Unity because we believe healing should be:
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Safe
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Affordable
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Trauma-informed
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And accessible to all
That’s why our virtual sessions are just $25 through the end of the year, and why we partner with practitioners offering Distance Reiki, Craniosacral Healing, and intuitive energy work—each with compassion and care at the core.
Ready to Receive? Ready to take the next steps?
Book a session now – throughout 2025 we are offering 3 sessions at $25 each
Download our Distance Session Prep eBook – this workbook is FREE to download, and can be a big help in preparing yourself for your session. It includes tips for setting your intentions, how to prepare your space, and ways to integrate your healing after the session.
Apply for Cancer Wellness Funds – generous donors have paid for a limited number of sessions for women on a cancer journey and their support team. Apply for yourself or nominate someone you love.
Donate to support healing access for women with cancer
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“Healing isn’t a luxury. It’s a right. And it should be possible from wherever you are.”
Let us help make that possible—for you, or someone you love.
by Amy Alward | Jul 16, 2025 | Distance Healing 101, Featured Posts, Reiki, Reiki Classes, Reiki Events, Reiki Experiences, Reiki Sessions
When Crisis Hits Close to Home
Rila’s wounds were going to be open for 8 to 10 weeks.
Last week, something happened that every service dog handler dreads: my dog—my companion, my helper, my heart—was attacked by two neighbor dogs. It was sudden, violent, and traumatic for both of us. She sustained a serious abdominal wound, and the vet was clear: this would be a long recovery.
Eight to ten weeks of open wound care. Multiple bandage changes per week. Pain meds, antibiotics, and round-the-clock care. Sedation for the bandaging–again and again and again. I was devastated and overwhelmed.
Travel plans for the two of us, and work with clients were rapidly being scrubbed for the summer. I wasn’t worried about that, though. I wanted my partner to be okay–and the vet had to explain the way dog bites work and heal before I grasped the real issue: it might look like healing is going well one day, and tissue can then “die off” inside or at the edges of the wound. I was so scared for her.
But I wasn’t alone.
Calling on My Support System—and Reiki
As I’ve done during many hard times, I turned to my community. I shared what had happened on social media and asked for prayers, thoughts, light—and Reiki.
And wow, did she receive it. Reiki was flowing constantly to her from all directions. The powerful, compassionate Reiki practitioners I have worked with lovingly with in HeartSpace for years responded. My connections with the International Center for Reiki Training (ICRT), called for help from practitioners around the globe. For four days straight, she was bathed in gentle, loving energy from people near and far—many of whom have practiced Reiki with me, received sessions from Whole Self Unity, or simply held good intentions.
Practitioners put her in their Reiki crystal grids, so a continuous flow of Reiki would find her and boost her healing for the greatest possible good, in the highest possible way. Across time zones and across the International Dateline, we were bathed in unconditional love from near and far.
Rila looks miserable, even though she is heavily medicated.
During that time, I also gave her Reiki in person, tuning in to her body’s signals, her nervous system, and her inner knowing. I could feel her relaxing into it—releasing the initial shock, allowing peace to return, one breath at a time.
A Medical Surprise
When we returned to the vet on day four, something remarkable had happened.
The wound had changed–on the phone before opening the bandage, the vet reminded me again that this would take 8 to 10 weeks. Yet that story changed once she sedated my nervous partner and took a look under the bandage. The deep bruising that extended across her abdomen had almost completely healed. The pocket that was expected to drain for weeks had nearly closed. The vet called in another surgeon who examined it also and agreed–this wound was okay to stitch up!
Now, instead of a long, uncertain journey, we’re looking at just two weeks of healing. No more exposed tissue. No complex dressing changes. Just rest, care, and cuddles. (And a very bored service dog who isn’t used to being told to take it easy.)
We got home from the vet that night overjoyed and relieved–and so very grateful for all the help we had been offered. We even sang her song (The Rila Song) together as a duet. Normally, she just listens, but she is also Reiki attuned, and I believe she knew exactly what had happened.
What Reiki Is—and What It Isn’t
Rila had excellent medical care AND Reiki.
I want to be clear: we had excellent veterinary care. Reiki didn’t replace antibiotics or pain relief or medical guidance. It worked with the vet’s care—not in place of it.
Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive form of energy healing that promotes deep relaxation, reduces stress, and supports the body’s natural healing processes. It doesn’t override medical treatment; it enhances the environment for healing—physically, emotionally, and energetically.
In my dog’s case, I believe Reiki helped her body shift out of fight-or-flight, supported cell regeneration, and gave her nervous system the space it needed to recover from trauma. The antibiotics, pain medication, and excellent medical interventions helped her tissues and physical systems–the Reiki boosted those effects and also helped shift the nonphysical aspects of her fuzzy being.
Healing Isn’t Just Physical
This experience reminded me of something I often tell my clients: healing happens on many levels. Yes, her physical wound healed quickly—but I also saw her emotional recovery accelerate. Her eyes softened. Her breathing slowed. She slept deeply. Her trust returned.
That’s what Reiki can do. It supports healing not just in the body, but in the heart, the mind, and the spirit.
A Message for You, If You’re Overwhelmed
Rila feels better, because her healing was speedy with Reiki.
If you’re facing something hard right now—grief, pain, burnout, anxiety, illness—you’re not alone. Healing isn’t always fast. But it is possible.
Whether it’s through medical care, energy work, or the support of a loving community, healing happens. And Reiki can be part of that journey.
If you’re curious about trying Reiki—whether for yourself, a loved one, or even a furry companion—I’d be honored to hold space for your healing. I firmly believe that anyone who earnestly asks for healing receives it at the right time in the right way. Healing is already on the way, Friend.
Next Steps?
Curious about how Reiki can support you in hard times?
Book a Distance Reiki Session or Learn More About Our Practitioners.
Want to support someone else’s healing? Donate to our Reiki Scholarship fund, join our email list below, or connect with us to ask a question or volunteer. We are also offering a limited number of donated one-on-one sessions to women with cancer, nominate yourself or someone else on our Wellness Scholarship form.
by Amy Alward | Jul 9, 2025 | Coming Attractions, Distance Healing 101, Featured Posts
A Reiki Share is a gathering of people who come together to give and receive Reiki in a spirit of generosity, learning, and mutual care. It’s a beautiful way to dip a toe into Reiki if you’re new, practice regularly if you’re a student, or stay nourished and connected if you’re a practitioner.
At Whole Self Unity, we host twice-monthly online Reiki Shares via Zoom, making it easy for you to experience the power of group healing from the comfort of your own home. No matter your level of experience—or your budget—you’re invited.
A Reiki Share, Simply Explained
Join Reiki Shares from anywhere via Zoom
A Reiki Share (sometimes called a Reiki Circle or Reiki Exchange) is a group gathering where Reiki is both given and received. It’s designed to be a supportive space where everyone benefits. Typically, shares are open to people attuned to Reiki as well as those who want to receive or are simply interested in learning more.
The atmosphere is relaxed, collaborative, and healing. The focus is less on formal instruction and more on shared energy and connection.
What Happens During a Reiki Share?
Every Reiki Share is a little different, but here’s what you can expect from our online Reiki group:
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A warm welcome and brief introductions, as well as an opportunity for intentions, and Q & A (questions and answers)
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A short grounding or meditation with formal intention setting for the group
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Group Reiki sending and receiving, often in pairs or small breakout rooms (depends on the number of attendees)
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Time for gentle reflection, integration, and optional sharing
We hold a container of respect, confidentiality, and safety, so you can show up just as you are.
Sessions last around 90 minutes and can be a deeply relaxing and energizing experience for all involved. If you can’t attend for the full session, you are welcome to join or depart at any time–don’t feel you can only show up if you can stay the whole time.
Benefits of Joining a Group Reiki Session
Emotional support and shared healing energy
Whether you’re a practitioner or a first-timer, group Reiki shares offer unique benefits:
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Deep rest & relaxation: Reiki in a group setting often amplifies the sense of calm and ease.
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Ongoing practice: Perfect for Reiki students to keep their flow going between classes.
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Healing community: You’ll connect with others who value energy healing and holistic support.
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Balanced giving and receiving: Practitioners often feel deeply replenished after sharing Reiki.
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Accessible healing: Our online Reiki shares are a form of community service—free or low-cost—making energy healing available to more people.
What Makes an Online Reiki Share Special?
Energy transcends space and time, and so does Reiki. In a Zoom-based Reiki Share, the healing is just as powerful, with the added benefits of convenience and accessibility. We do offer some LiveStream share options on social media platforms, but this format allows the practitioners and recipients to interact privately.
You can:
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Join from anywhere in the world
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Relax in your own home environment
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Participate even if you’re navigating illness, mobility challenges, or a full schedule
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Meet like-hearted people you might never encounter locally–virtually, face-to-face
Healing in motion—together and free
When you sign up, we’ll send a few simple guidelines that help keep our Reiki Shares safe, welcoming, and respectful for everyone involved—whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth.
Distance Reiki is a beautiful reminder that connection is energetic first—and that healing is always available.
Our Online Reiki Group: What to Expect
At Whole Self Unity, we host twice-monthly Reiki Shares via Zoom. These online sessions are open to:
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Reiki students and practitioners from any level, any lineage
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Curious newcomers who want to feel what Reiki is like before booking a private session
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Anyone exploring becoming a Reiki student or finding the right teacher
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Practitioners looking to build relationships and network
Each session includes time to share Reiki, meet others, and rest deeply. There is no pressure, only invitation.
Join our next online Reiki Share using the list below or sign up to get updates about future events.
Reiki Shares and the Spirit of Unity
Group Reiki energy shared in light and unity
At Whole Self Unity, our mission is to make healing accessible, especially to those who might not otherwise have access to this kind of care. Reiki Shares embody this vision: welcoming, inclusive, and grounded in mutual respect and compassion.
Whether you’re here for community, curiosity, or connection—you belong.
Want to experience Reiki in a safe, supportive group?
Join us for our next online Reiki Share—all are welcome.
Learn More About Reiki benefits on our blog.
See what Amy is offering through her business, Emerge Guided Healing.
Join Our Email List below to make sure you know what is coming up.
