Unpacking Reiki: Can It Be Classified as Massage Therapy?

Unpacking Reiki: Can It Be Classified as Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy is often expected to involve the extensive use of hands, fingers, and occasionally even elbows to relieve stress and tension in muscles. Recollections of physical therapy sessions reinforce these expectations, with therapists using strong pressure to alleviate pain in areas affected by conditions such as a pinched disk.

However, the inclusion of Reiki, a form of energy healing, in the context of massage therapy raises questions. Massage therapy is generally defined as the manipulation of the body's soft tissues for therapeutic purposes, healing, or relaxation. The word "manipulation" is key to consider.

Reiki Vs Massage

Reiki, similar to Shiatsu massage, aims to balance 'ki' or 'life force energy' within the body. Ancient Oriental philosophy suggests that if this energy is out of balance or depleted, an individual becomes susceptible to physical and emotional ailments. Reiki practitioners seek to channel the energy into their clients to correct imbalances, fostering healing.

However, Reiki differs significantly in its practice methods; it involves no 'manipulation.' In some Reiki treatments, there isn't even physical touch involved, which starkly contrasts the generally accepted definition of massage.

Origins and Practice of Reiki

Modern Reiki was developed by Dr. Mikao Usui, a minister, and director of a Christian school in Japan. Post years of study and a 21-day fast, he experienced revelation that allegedly taught him healing methods akin to how Jesus healed. This knowledge was subsequently passed down from Dr. Usui to various Reiki masters and thousands of practitioners.

The practice of Reiki involves the transfer of energy from the practitioner to the patient. However, it is taught that the patient draws this energy from the practitioner, implicating the patient has an active role in their own healing.

Though not a religion, significant spirituality elements underpin Reiki. A Universal Life Force or God is recognized as the energy source. Reiki's principles are akin to the 'laying on of hands,' a healing method prevalent in various religious denominations.

Issues With Reiki as a Form of Massage

Two main issues arise with categorizing Reiki as a form of massage. Firstly, massage as a stand-alone practice has already struggled for acceptance as a legitimate healing form across the medical establishment. Attempts to include any touch-based healing work under the definition of massage potentially adds to confusion and suspicion, despite proven and accepted benefits of soft tissue manipulation.

Secondly, Reiki's inclusion in massage therapy raises licensing issues. Some states require Reiki practitioners to be licensed massage therapists, a move disputed by many Reiki practitioners because of the distinction between Reiki and massage.

Reiki indeed presents a split perspective. It's included in curriculums at massage schools, while many practitioners argue that they aren't massage therapists. Whether Reiki can be genuinely categorized as massage therapy remains a topic for further discussion and exploration. While Reiki may or may not be an effective form of healing, there seems to be a need for some 'manipulation' in the definition of massage to include Reiki comprehensively.