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Posted in Understanding Depression by admin on July 26th, 2007
How Does Reiki Help Anxiety And Depression?
by Patsy Hamilton
How does Reiki help anxiety and depression? Scientifically speaking, we cannot explain this, just as we cannot explain how prayer works. In fact, we cannot explain why prescription drugs relieve the symptoms of anxiety and depression. We cannot explain why some people suffer nearly constantly from both, while others never do. But, as with many medical conditions and treatments, we have theories.
Anxiety and depression often accompany each other. At times, it is hard to say which came first. The symptoms of anxiety often include insomnia, irritability, unreasonable fear, heart palpitations and chest pain. These symptoms may be brought on by short or long-term stress, too much caffeine or other stimulants, improper diet or lack of exercise. These and other factors are described below.
The common symptoms of depression include insomnia or increased need for sleep, fatigue, loss of interest in hobbies or life in general, unreasonable sadness, crying, angry outbursts, suicidal thoughts, etc. Both can be disabling and are major risk factors for life-threatening diseases, though we do not really know why.
In both anxiety and depression, a "sense of well-being" is missing. This may be one answer to how does Reiki help anxiety and depression; by restoring a sense of well-being.
Treating Anxiety and Depression
The first line of treatment in most cases of moderate to severe anxiety and/or depression is anti-depressant drugs, but they do not "cure" the conditions. There is no evidence supporting the safety of long-term use of these drugs. Most practitioners will recommend a complete treatment plan, which takes time and effort, but is well worth it.
Nutrition and physical activity are both factors in anxiety and depression. Numerous research studies support the effectiveness of regular physical exercise in relieving symptoms. Just as we have no clear answer to how does Reiki help anxiety and depression, we cannot say absolutely why physical activity helps. We believe that the body produces endorphins and other compounds during physical activity that promote relaxation and a "sense of well being".
As for nutrition, B-complex vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids are particularly important to people who suffer from anxiety and/or depression. Scientific studies support this statement, as well. It can also be beneficial to find a sense of purpose in ones life.
How Does Reiki Help Anxiety and Depression?
Most experts agree that spirituality is important for dealing with anxiety or depression. For those of us who are not affiliated with an organized religion, finding spirituality may be a difficult task.
Many people who come to distrust the religion that they grew up with are left in a depressed state. Studying Reiki can provide the spirituality that they need. It is comforting to learn that you are not alone in the universe. This realization alone can be enough to relax the mind.
Most people who suffer from anxiety or depression need some amount of psychological therapy, maybe to find issues that they have not "dealt" with. Reiki and the use of the healing chakras provide a different way of dealing with past issues.
So, how does Reiki help anxiety and depression? It allows people to "let go" of worry, anger and past hurts. It is a method of deep relaxation that can provide the "sense of well being" and the sense of purpose that many people find missing in their lives. To learn more please visit http://understanding-reiki.com.
Patsy Hamilton was a health care professional for over twenty years before becoming a health writer. Currently she is writing a series of articles about Reiki, a complementary therapy. Read more at http://understanding-reiki.com.
Tags: Reiki, Depression, Anxiety
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