Reiki and Blood Pressure: Can This Gentle Practice Help Lower Hypertension?

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects millions worldwide and often requires ongoing management, including medication, diet, and lifestyle adjustments. Yet, beyond these conventional treatments, a growing number of people are exploring complementary therapies like Reiki for additional support. Reiki, a practice rooted in Japanese tradition, focuses on balancing the body’s energy to promote relaxation and well-being—qualities that can positively influence high blood pressure management.

Understanding High Blood Pressure and Its Risks

High blood pressure occurs when blood exerts excessive force against the walls of blood vessels. Many people with high blood pressure experience no symptoms, while others may deal with headaches, shortness of breath, or nosebleeds. Left unmanaged, it can lead to serious health issues such as heart failure, stroke, kidney disease, and even memory problems. To address high blood pressure, patients are generally advised to follow prescribed medication, maintain a healthy weight, limit sodium intake, and engage in regular exercise. Another crucial recommendation is to minimise stress, as stress can significantly elevate blood pressure levels.

How Reiki Supports High Blood Pressure Management

Reiki works by restoring balance to the body’s energy pathways, which may become blocked or disrupted due to stress, illness, or imbalance. Through light touch or by holding hands just above the body, a Reiki practitioner channels energy, aiming to help relieve tension and encourage the body's natural healing processes. Here are some ways Reiki may support people with high blood pressure:

Promoting Relaxation

By fostering deep relaxation, Reiki can reduce stress and anxiety, both of which are known to raise blood pressure. Relaxing the body and mind may indirectly help lower blood pressure and prevent it from spiking due to stress.

Improving Sleep Quality

Poor sleep has been linked to high blood pressure. Regular Reiki sessions may help you sleep better by reducing stress and anxiety, creating an environment conducive to restful sleep, which can positively impact blood pressure levels.

Alleviating Pain

Pain can increase blood pressure due to the body’s natural stress response. Reiki’s gentle approach may help alleviate sensations of pain, reducing this stress-induced rise in blood pressure.

Enhancing Mood

Reiki may also support a more positive mood, helping those with high blood pressure feel more motivated and empowered to follow through with recommended lifestyle changes, such as eating healthier and exercising more.

What the Research Says About Reiki and Blood Pressure

Several studies have explored Reiki's potential to lower blood pressure:

-Autonomic Nervous System Support:  Research at South Glasgow University Hospital found that Reiki sessions led to decreased heart rates and lower diastolic blood pressure in participants.

-Reduced Anxiety and Systolic Pressure: A study from the University of Texas Houston Health Science Center observed that a 30-minute Reiki treatment reduced anxiety and lowered systolic blood pressure.

-Brazilian Hypertension Study:  Another study in Brazil compared blood pressure changes in three groups: one that received Reiki, another that received a placebo treatment, and a control group. While all groups experienced a decrease in blood pressure, the Reiki group showed the most significant drop.

Interested in Trying Reiki for Blood Pressure?

If you or a loved one are managing high blood pressure, Reiki could be a valuable addition to your current routine. Emily Perrier at Prittie Yoga is currently conducting a study on Reiki’s effects on high blood pressure and invites those with hypertension to participate. This offers an opportunity to experience Reiki’s calming effects firsthand while contributing to valuable research in complementary therapies for blood pressure management.

Blood Pressure Study

Emily is currently running a blood pressure study to see what impact Reiki has on high blood pressure. She currently offering reduced rates for people with high blood pressure who take part in the study. In addition, when 6 sessions of Reiki are booked within 8 weeks, the 6th one will be free.

Book a session with Emily today at Prittie Yoga and take the next step in holistic health support.