How Reiki Transformed My Life in Times of Suffering and Empowered Me to Find Joy, Self-Love, and Healing
- Lexi Frier
- Apr 8
- 5 min read
Reiki is often viewed as a gentle touch therapy that encourages relaxation and healing. While many remain unsure about its benefits, for me, it became a life-changing journey. This transformation occurred during not one, but two, of the hardest periods of my life. Through Reiki, I discovered joy, grew in self-love, and learned to overcome my anxiety and tendency to please others.
Embracing Reiki in Times of Suffering
My journey with Reiki started during a period of profound personal loss. After the heartbreaking experience of losing my son through stillbirth, I was overwhelmed by grief and anxiety. I felt disconnected from the world and struggled to process my emotions.
I feel this led me to push the difficult feelings deep down inside, as I tried to carry on as normal. Although, the pain may not have been seen outwards, as I was so worried of upsetting others and didn't want to bother them with my pain or problems. Deep down I felt broken, unsure of how to be in life with this pain inside me, vulnerable but unable to share for fear of being rejected.
A year and a half after losing my son I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer, there were no signs. I had become hypervigilant around my health, looking for answers as to what happened to my son. I just felt like something wasn't right, luckily I had a great GP, who sent me to get checked out (just in case). This was the feeling from the specialist too, but unfortunately I had to hear the fateful words no one wants to hear.
The first thing I did after leaving the hospital was ask a stranger for a cigarette! I didn't even smoke, I was in total shock! After a while I started to absorb the words, it felt so unfair, now not only had I lost my son I was going too.
I couldn't understand why this was happening, I was angry, 'what had I done in a past life to deserve this!
I had decided to go and tell my friend in person and without knowing she had booked me a session of Reiki. I was very skeptical, I couldn't understand how someone hovering their hands around my body could help.
As soon as the session started I could feel a loving embrace around me, this embracing was allowing me to connect fully to myself, to all the feelings I had pushed deep down, they all came up to be released. It felt totally safe to be vulnerable, to feel anger, sadness, grief and all the pain and after the session I found deep peace and relaxation, which before had felt impossible.
I knew after one session, this was going to be how I would get through all of the suffering. For the first time it felt like I had a choice, did I want to go and be with my beautiful baby boy or did I want to stay in this world? I started my quest for an intentional, peaceful, love filled life.
In my quest for peace, I continued distant Reiki sessions with my original practitioner (yes you don't even need to be in the same room). To my surprise, this gentle energy work began peeling back the layers of my grief. It provided a safe space to confront my feelings. Each time, I remember feeling a warm, calming energy that enveloped me. It was as if the Reiki practitioner could sense my wounds. That gentle touch prompted me to explore my sorrow openly, free from judgment.
Finding Joy Again
As I began my Reiki sessions, I noticed a significant shift in my energy. The practitioner led me through meditative practices focused on relaxation and mindfulness. Rather than being engulfed by my past, I learned to live in the present. Slowly, I uncovered small moments of joy hidden inside my heart.
For example, one session opened my eyes to the pleasure of simple things. I started noticing the vibrant colors of flowers during my walks, the warmth of sunlight on my skin, and the comforting aroma of tea as it brewed. I realised that joy could thrive in everyday moments. According to studies, engagement in mindfulness practices can increase positive emotions by 30%, and I felt that start to develop in my life.
Cultivating Self-Love
Reiki guided me toward self-discovery and self-love. Initially, I faced feelings of guilt. I worried that finding happiness would somehow dishonor my son's memory. However, through consistent Reiki healing, I learned that I could cherish his memory without sacrificing my well-being.
As I embraced the healing energy, I began to accept that I was deserving of love and compassion. The more I practiced self-love, the more confidently I could advocate for my own needs. I started nurturing myself with affirmations, like "I am worthy" and "My feelings are valid," which gradually changed my mindset to one of intentional living and pure love.
Breaking Free from People-Pleasing
A powerful change that Reiki brought about was breaking the cycle of people-pleasing. In the past, I consistently prioritised others' needs over my own, fearing rejection.
Reiki encouraged me to appreciate my own needs and desires. I discovered that setting boundaries did not mean I was selfish. Instead, I learned that I could express my limits without feeling guilty. In one transformative session, I realised that honoring my voice made me more authentic in my relationships, leading to deeper connections and mutual respect.
Managing Anxiety and Emotional Challenges
Through my Reiki journey, I gained an understanding that I could find peace and relaxation, I could feel tranquility. I started to become interested in other methods and found a variety of valuable tools for managing anxiety. Once the driving force in my life, anxiety began to lessen I could focus more on finding joy in life.
Reiki sessions promoted a deep state of relaxation that helped me release pent-up tension. I learned breathing techniques, such as the box breathing, which reduces anxiety levels. This simple practice involves inhaling for four seconds, holding for 4, and exhaling for 4. It became an anchor during moments of stress and anxiety.
I became more connected to my childhood connection to nature, I would spend hours in the woods, amongst the trees, I could feel a deep sense of inner knowing that we're all connected and this opened my heart to feel the love for and from my son, whenever I was in nature. I would feel the energy and love of the universe all around.
Recovery Support and Empowerment Through Reiki
Reiki also played a significant role in my cancer recovery journey. Facing a daunting diagnosis was frightening, yet Reiki empowered me to take charge of my care.
During my regular Reiki sessions, I could feel a shift in energy and perspective. I learned to trust my body’s signals and make informed decisions about my treatment. Research has shown that patients who engage in complementary therapies like Reiki often report improved quality of life. By processing my challenging emotions through Reiki, I regained a sense of control over my journey. While not everything in life is within my control, my responses are.
A Journey of Healing and Transformation
Reiki has genuinely transformed my life. It has been a guiding light in my times of pain and uncertainty. This journey has led me to rediscover joy, nurture self-love, and embrace my independence.
As I continue to face life’s challenges, I hold onto the lessons learned through this healing practice. Reiki has taught me that healing is not a straightforward path but a winding journey that includes both joy and sorrow.
If you find yourself at a crossroads or facing your own suffering, consider exploring Reiki. It may provide the gentle support you need to reclaim joy, nurture self-love, and cultivate healing in the face of adversity.
I am always here to support, if you would like to book in a free 30 min consultation call to talk things over, why not send an email to: hellonatureangel@gmail.com
No pressure of expectation!
Be kind and gentle with yourself.
Thanks & Blessings, Alexis Frier
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