Reiki for Headaches and Migraines

Migraine is the 3^rd most prevalent illness in the world, according to the Migraine Research Foundation. 12% of the population suffers from migraines, adults as well as children. Migraine is also the 6th most disabling illness across the globe. Although most common in women, migraine headaches can affect people of any age, gender or background. They are often debilitating, causing the sufferer to be unable to go to work, take care of their daily responsibilities or even get out of bed during the attack. Over 4 million adults endure the agony of chronic daily migraine – with at least 15 migraine days per month.  Although many varied and different treatments exist for migraines, complete cures of this condition are sometimes rare. However, some migraine sufferers have reported an improvement of symptoms through Reiki.

Understanding Migraines

Migraine attacks are typically characterized by extreme throbbing or pulsating pain in the head, usually concentrated on one side. Many people suffering from a migraine attack also experience nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. These attacks can last for hours or even days, leaving the individual virtually helpless. For many people, the only way to find relief is to lie quietly in a dark room until the attack passes.

Certain medications may reduce the frequency and/or severity of migraine attacks. In addition, doctors often encourage patients with a history of migraines to avoid triggers, which may include stress, certain smells, certain foods or other environmental factors. During a migraine, patients may be able to reduce the pain by taking a pain-relieving medication and trying to relax as much as possible.

How Reiki May Help

Reiki is a non-invasive supportive modality that encourages a relaxation response which may in turn assist to: potentially help reduce the frequency of migraines, reduce the severity of migraines or help to alleviate at least some pain during an active migraine attack. Some of the effects of Reiki that may benefit migraine sufferers include:

Reduction in feelings of stress.

Stress is a precursor to headaches for many people who suffer with migraines. Reducing stress as much as possible prevents stress-related migraines from occurring. Studies have shown that Reiki reduces stress and induces feelings of relaxation, which may be highly beneficial for individuals who are prone to migraines.

Less severe pain.

Studies have also shown that people with various painful conditions are likely to report feeling less pain after participating in Reiki sessions. Because pain is the defining characteristic of migraines, it stands to reason that reduced pain sensations would be beneficial for migraine sufferers.

Improved mood.

Migraine headaches and depression often go hand-in-hand. Reiki may boost the mood of people who are prone to migraines, which may in turn reduce the likelihood of future migraine attacks.

Reiki for Headache Migraines: Research and Anecdotal Evidence

Although no specific studies exist to confirm Reiki’s effectiveness in treating migraines, plenty of research studies support Reiki’s ability to produce the effects above, including lower stress levels, less pain and a better outlook on life. In addition, many patients who have undergone Reiki treatments in hopes of reducing the frequency of migraine attacks or dealing with an existing migraine headache have reported that the therapy was effective.

Finding a Reiki Practitioner

If you suffer from migraines, Reiki may be one of the tools to help manage your symptoms. To learn more about this supportive wellness therapy or to begin a Reiki treatment regimen to support traditional medicine for your migraine plan, please visit our website to find a Registered Reiki Practitioner in your area anywhere in the world.

Sources:
www.migraineresearchfoundation.org,http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/basics/definition/con-20026358,http://reiki4innerpeace.com/migraine-headache-relief/,http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9765732, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20635803

This article appeared in The Reiki Times, Vol. 23, Issue Q2, the magazine of IARP: International Association of Reiki Professionals. © 2019. International Association of Reiki Professionals LLC.  All Rights Reserved.