Hello, everyone. Thanks for reading my blog post today! As a Reiki Master/Teacher, one of my responsibilities is to continue learning as much as I can about Reiki. Another one of my responsibilities, is to share what I learn with all of YOU.
I came across this really interesting article in The Reiki Times about postpartum depression and the use of Reiki to help alleviate it. It never ceases to amaze me how absolutely wonderful this ancient healing modality is. I hope you find this article helpful.
As always, if you would like to make an appointment for a Reiki session with me, please feel free to reach out by calling our office at (260) 570-4515. Reiki is more accessible and affordable than you may think.
Much love and light to all of you.
~ Lyndy Guevara
Reiki Master/Teacher
Oaktree Guidance & Wellness Center
This article is from The Reiki Times, the official magazine of the International Association of Reiki Professionals.
Benefits of Reiki for Moms with Postpartum Depression
Nearly every new mom feels slightly depressed or overwhelmed at some point during the first few days that follow delivery. However, some women experience a more severe form of depression, known as “postpartum depression.” Postpartum depression is a significant problem worldwide, affecting 10 to 15 percent of women around the globe. Women dealing with this condition may try to alleviate their symptoms by taking medication, getting plenty of rest, and attending counseling sessions. However, research has also shown that Reiki may be beneficial to women with postpartum depression.
How Reiki Can Help
Reiki offers several benefits for moms suffering from postpartum depression. Some of the potential benefits of this therapy include:
Lower perceptions of stress.
People who participate in Reiki sessions often report feeling less stress. Because
stress is one of the most significant factors contributing to postpartum depression in new moms, relieving stress may help to improve the symptoms of depression.
Connection with another person.
Mothers suffering from postpartum depression often feel alone, withdrawn and disconnected from the people around them. The one-on-one attention received during a Reiki session may help the mother to feel more grounded and connected to the world around her.
More autonomy.
New mothers sometimes feel as though they have lost control of their lives. Scheduling and participating in Reiki sessions lets the mother feel more proactive and autonomous, which may alleviate some of the symptoms of her condition.
A chance to relax.
Reiki sessions give new mothers a chance to relax and recharge. This can be especially beneficial to mothers who have depression accompanied by feelings of anxiety.
A better sense of balance.
Many clients who participate in regular Reiki sessions report feeling more mentally and physically balanced. This change may help mothers with postpartum depression to overcome their negative mental state.
Research studies support the efficacy of Reiki sessions for depression in general. It is likely that these benefits will translate to postpartum depression as well. Below is some information about some of the research studies that have been conducted on the effectiveness of Reiki for people with depression.
Effects of Reiki on Depression, Anxiety and Pain
In a study conducted by researchers at the University of Southern Maine, researchers evaluated the effect of Reiki treatments on measures of pain, depression and anxiety. Individuals participating in the study were divided into two groups: a control group and an experimental group that received Reiki treatments. Measures of depression, anxiety and pain improved significantly among members of the experimental treatment group.
Efficacy of Reiki at Benefiting Mood and Well Being
In this study conducted by the University of London, patients underwent two to eight weeks of 30-minute Reiki sessions. At the end of the study, researchers found that participants who were experiencing high levels of anxiety and depression experienced an overall improvement in mood.
Sources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20635803
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3092553/#__ffn_sectitle
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Call (260) 570-4515 for more information.