by William Lee Rand
I often receive questions concerning Reiki and pregnancy and one of the main questions is if it is safe to treat a pregnant woman. There are many myths and misconceptions about Reiki and the idea that Reiki should not be given to pregnant women is one of them. So, the answer is YES, Reiki is safe for pregnant women! In fact, Reiki works well in helping with all stages of pregnancy including conception and childbirth. Reiki provides emotional as well as physical support and works not only on the mother, but also on the child. Remember, Reiki cannot cause harm and always works to reduce stress and improve health regardless of the condition. However, it is important to make sure that one's own personal energy does not become involved with the treatment. To ensure this, say a prayer before giving a treatment asking that your own ego and personal energy will be set to the side and that only pure Reiki energy will flow through you. Also pray on behalf of the mother and child that they will be nurtured and deeply healed by Reiki. This will help the treatment work in a more powerful way.
Treatments before conception can focus on creating a balanced, loving and harmonious relationship between the parents and toward the future child which likely will be present in spirit. In addition to giving a general treatment, also treat the heart, solar plexus and hips. (Be careful not to touch the genital area or the breasts. Treat these areas only in the aura and only with permission). At this stage, treat the husband also if possible as it is important that loving, nurturing and healthy emotional feelings be strengthened between the parents.
If the parents are willing, it would be very helpful if they took Reiki training so they can treat themselves and each other also. In the same way that Reiki treatments are safe for pregnant woman, so is the training and attunement. Before the attunement, simply say a prayer acknowledging the fact that the student is pregnant and that the baby is present. If the parents have Reiki, suggest that they give each other treatments everyday!
During pregnancy, in addition to a general treatment, treat the mothers back focusing on the areas of greatest stress and also treat the stomach area which will treat the baby as well.
During childbirth, treat the stomach and lower back, or simply give Reiki to the mother's shoulders or where ever you are guided.
Reiki master Mari Hall wrote an interesting article on this subject describing how she worked with an infertile couple, used Reiki to help them conceive, then gave treatments during pregnancy and during the birthing process. Her article, Reiki and Fertility appears in the Winter 2002 issue of Reiki News Magazine.
