A study published in the journal Integrative Cancer Therapies sought to determine which was more effective at reducing fatigue in cancer patients -- one Reiki Therapy session a day or one hour of rest. Reiki is a natural therapy centered around energy flow.
About the Reiki Therapy Study
Most of the study's 16 participants were colon cancer patients, information that's worth noting for two reasons. First, this study is particularly relevant for people with colon cancer. And second, 16 is a really small number, so you can't put too much stock in the study. However, the results were interesting.
Results of the Reiki Therapy Study
Half the people tried Reiki Therapy then rest and the other half tried rest then Reiki Therapy. So, each person had a chance to try both. Overall, Reiki Therapy won out as the best method for reducing fatigue and improving quality of life. If you're thinking about giving this a try, please talk to your doctor first to make sure it won't interfere with your treatment.
Related Research Summaries:Source: Tsang, K. and Carlson, L. "Pilot Crossover Trial of Reiki Versus Rest for Treating Cancer-Related Fatigue." Integrative Cancer Therapies 6.1 (2007): 25-35. Sage Journals Online. Accessed 10 Mar. 2007.
