More and more women in our age group are incorporating the ancient healing practice called Reiki into their health and wellness programs. We reached out to local Registered Nurse and 30-year Reiki practitioner Pat Iyer to learn more. You can reach Pat at [email protected]
What is Reiki?
Reiki is one of many Eastern energy healing modalities which ultimately bring the body to a place of balance. Its origins are Japanese, and it has been practiced for many years. It is a simple, gentle, energy technique that is used for alleviating stress, to support pain management, and provide deep relaxation, to help the recipient feel more balanced.
Reiki practitioners do not diagnose conditions, prescribe or perform medical treatments, prescribe substances, or interfere with the treatment of licensed medical professionals. In fact, Reiki can complement any medical or mental health care someone may be receiving. It can be used for any condition whether to support treatment for a medical diagnosis or stress, or anxiety. There are many benefits of receiving Reiki.
Pat, how did you become a Reiki provider?
My journey to Reiki was an interesting one. I am actually a Registered Nurse. Early in my career I concurrently explored a variety of alternative healing modalities to support those in the acute care setting. It was the time when interest in complementary medicine was early in its outward development and information for individuals was not readily available.
I was fortunate to study with a variety of teachers, learning about energy healing, meditation, and creative visualization. I learned about Reiki in 1992 and found it to be an easy method to learn as well as to practice. I started early in my career to add it to my traditional nursing work, but for the past 30 years I also have maintained a practice seeing individuals for private sessions and teaching Reiki to others from all walks of life.
One of the wonderful things about Reiki as a practice is that you can do it for yourself. This has enabled me to have tools throughout the past several years to support my own health and body during times of stress, personal injury, or with health issues. The practice of Reiki is supported by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.
Does Reiki have any particular benefits for women over 60?
Reiki has many benefits for people of all ages, including women over 60. Ironically, most of my clients are women. As we get older our need to find supportive ways to deal with many situations including chronic or acute disease, pre- and post-operative care for any type of surgery, pain management, insomnia and anxiety. Truthfully, the list is endless. I find that many women over 60 benefit from the nurturing effects of treatment. They are able to totally relax and quiet their mind to assist them to refocus. Many incorporate it as a monthly wellness tool to stay balanced and healthy.
Reiki is a wonderful adjunct for those undergoing treatment for cancer and a variety of other medical issues. Reiki is also instrumental in supporting end-of-life care by assisting with the alleviation of pain and anxiety that can occur at the end of life. Many individuals who work in hospice are trained in Reiki and can offer it to patients and families.
In closing, I can say that Reiki is amazing. Having Reiki in my life for the past 30 years has enriched it in so many ways. Reiki provides a partnership between the practitioner and the person receiving Reiki to support healing and balance. It also empowers anyone who chooses to study Reiki with the ability to have a tool to assist them with various personal challenges they face throughout their lives. Many who choose to learn to practice themselves go on to share with family members, friends, and pets, or to volunteer in a variety of settings. It is a tool for self-healing to share with those around us.
I have been fortunate to receive Reiki from Pat and it was all she said it is.
Many years back I was fortunate enough to have Pat as my reiki healer. One session, in particular, helped me shift the course of my life. I am forever grateful to her.
Paula, that’s wonderful to see, thank you for sharing with us! XO
I have both received and learned Reiki with Pat. She has generously shared this practice and helped so many people over the years, and continues to teach and connect with so many souls. Thank you for featuring her!