Article by Angie Webster
One of the most difficult things to cope with when you have an ongoing illness is the feeling that you have lost control of your own life and your own body. As an illness progresses, you may begin to feel that you are becoming more disconnected from your old way of life.
There is often a loss of independence that can feel stifling and disempowering. Seeing your friends and family go on with their daily activities when you are not able to join them may leave you feeling out of the loop and depressed, as well.
Though you may need to rely more on doctors, friends and loved ones during a long term illness, it can begin to feel that you no longer have the ability to do very much to make a difference in your own life or to have an effect on your own health. It can be especially frustrating to be in a great deal of pain or to be unable to sleep well and to have little you can do to relieve your own distress.
There are some things that can help to put some power back into your own hands during an ongoing illness. Of course, make sure that you are doing the things that your doctor recommends such as tending to your dietary needs. Nutrition is very important. Think of it as a foundation for your health.
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Your doctor will probably also suggest at least some level of movement or exercise every day. Movement is something important you can do for yourself. It moves the air in and out of your lungs and moves the lymph through your body, helping to eliminate toxins. It also helps to break up soreness in the muscles and joints. It can keep us stronger and more flexible and helps us sleep better, too. If your doctor recommends it, then make sure you get in your movement for a few minutes every day. It’s one of the most empowering things you can do for yourself.
Having regular Reiki treatments can be very beneficial for anyone with a chronic illness. It will ease stress, depression, anxiety, pain, and other discomforts of being ill. Even someone who is attuned themselves can benefit from receiving Reiki from another practitioner on occasion, particularly if they have an ongoing illness. It is very relaxing to simply lay back and rest while someone else gives the treatment, allowing you to simply be pampered and receive. Consider allowing yourself this opportunity now and then, if you can.
Reiki training at the first level is a wonderful tool for empowerment on your journey through chronic illness. The class is usually done in a one day training session and once you receive the attunement, you can practice Reiki on yourself anytime you need it, as often as you need it, day or night.
On my own journey, simply knowing I had the ability, through Reiki, to offer myself relief that truly helped the pain and discomfort, created a shift in me that was healing in and of itself. I began to see myself as capable, something I hadn’t seen in a very long time. I began trying things I hadn’t felt possible before. I began to remember what a valuable thing my body is and how much I loved it. I had spent years hating it.
Without realizing it, over time my life became more whole, more functional and well. I was less and less dependent and felt more free and alive. The gloom lifted, anxiety faded and options opened themselves to me as my mind began to see more clearly. I will always do self Reiki every day, and more on the days I need it.
Becoming trained in energy healing offers us such an important tool in the daily lives of us all. But it is especially important to those who have lost touch with the power of their own bodies and minds. It can bring you back to the remembrance of who you really are.
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Angie Webster made a significant contribution to the Reiki community, with a particular focus on Animal Reiki, which she had a deep affection for. As a knowledgeable Reiki Master Teacher and Author, she conducted online courses on energy healing, herbalism, flower essences, and personal growth.
She is the author of “Animal Reiki: How it Heals, Teaches & Reconnects Us with Nature” and “Reiki from A to Z”. Currently, Angie has decided to retire from her professional life to devote more time to her health, family, and the little joys of life.
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