Reiki For the Elderly
Six years ago, during a family celebration , my 81-year-old father collapsed. He was rather frail, after having had a mild stroke a few years before, so of course we called 911. The hospital released him after a series of tests and decided nothing “new” or “life threatening” had occurred. However, somewhere deep down inside me, I knew that we were beginning our journey into the final chapter of his life - and he died nine months later.
Reiki student Christine Priori sending healing energyDuring those nine months I became very frustrated with my own ability to connect with and care for my father, even though I spent a great deal of time with him. As I look back, I find it ironic that we “prepare” to bring a life into this world for nine joyous months, but are totally unprepared to help our loved ones “leave.”
As a culture, most of us feel inadequate in our own abilities to care for or mentally prepare ourselves and our loved ones for death, so we rely solely on others.
A year later I learned about Reiki and hands-on energy work. I realized that Reiki would give me the tools to help sick or elderly people in the way I so wanted to help my father. During my Reiki Master training, I began volunteer hospice work to increase my understanding, and today I work with terminally ill patients, hospice volunteers and many people who want to learn to use Reiki in caring for their own relatives.
Healing Energy
I teach my students how to transfer this warm, healing energy through their hands. Reiki provides what is called a “full body treatment”, but when visiting a friend or relative in the hospital, even the simple act of holding a hand can begin the transfer of this relaxing, healing energy flow.
What a wonderful gift to be able to help someone totally relax during chemotherapy, feel more comfortable after surgery, or let them feel the warmth of Reiki energy at their shoulders or feet, even when they are sensitive to touch.
At higher Reiki levels, the energy is administered to specific areas for pain relief, to help the body heal from surgeries, to boost the immune system, and to align the body’s energies. I also show my students how they can help someone to totally relax through Reiki meditations or guided visualizations of healing.
But for me, the greatest gift of Reiki, has been in watching the “connection” that can be made by loved ones even when they are sleeping or unconscious.
In those precious last days before we leave this physical body, there is much spiritual work being done. Creating a peaceful, calm atmosphere through Reiki often allows loved ones to share in the emotional and spiritual healings that are occurring.
A Special Gift...
I now know that feeling pushed to find a way to feel closer to my dad at the time of his death was the final gift my father gave me. I feel very strongly that energy work has an important role in all places of caretaking, be it hospitals, assisted living centers, clinics, private homes and especially in hospice. Anyone can learn to do Reiki...it is a gift you give to yourself and then share with others. I invite anyone who is interested in learning more about Reiki to contact me. I hold frequent Reiki classes at all levels, and include a special section on hospice work in my Reiki Master Class. I give a $50.00 class discount to any Hospice Volunteer or Hospice Staff Member, and would welcome the opportunity to teach Reiki at Hospice Centers.
A Final Gift to Your Loved One
Let Reiki be a gift you share with your loved one. I can see them alone, or with family gathered around. Whether in your home, a hospital, or nursing facility, Reiki is a great comfort. If you are already in hospice, I will work with them if you prefer. Please contact me to discuss fees which are on a sliding scale depending on circumstances.
"How can I thank you for the gift of quality time with my mom. My father, sister and I are in your debt forever! We realize our time is limited and precious, but thanks to you and Reiki healing, she is so much more alert and comfortable..."
Read more of what my clients are saying.