A major component in fostering kittens involves resolving medical and behavioral problems before kittens are adopted. While conventional medicine and training techniques are successful many foster volunteers are seeking out supplementary approaches to help kittens thrive. Gentle and non invasive the practice of Reiki promotes wellness through energetic healing. It is thought that animals are especially receptive to energy vibrations making Reiki an effective tool for calming ill and traumatized kittens. Additionally Reiki can enhance the effects of medical treatments when used in conjunction.
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a Japanese energy healing technique that uses meditation and a sequence of positive, comforting, hands on positions to promote relaxation, ease pain and reduce stress. According to Elizabeth Fulton and Kathleen Prasad, “The term Reiki is usually translated as ‘universal life energy.’ It is a holistic healing system , meaning that it treats the whole being, addressing problems and healing at all levels: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.” Healers usually offer Reiki to animals at a distance until the animal is comfortable enough to be touched. Some animals may move close to the healer while others interact from a distance. Reiki is offered not forced making its use ideal for feral or unsocialized kittens. It is important to note that Reiki is not a substitute for veterinary care and should not be used to diagnose illnesses.
How can Reiki Help Kittens?
Many foster kittens are very young, ill or injured. Using Reiki can boost the immune systems of ailing kittens, speed up healing and accelerate post operative recovery. Kittens are often placed in foster homes because of behavioral problems related to abuse, neglect or a mistrust of humans. Reiki can help kittens cope by easing tension, boosting confidence, and releasing anxiety and fear. According to a recent article in Feline Wellness Magazine, “Reiki can create relaxation and peace in even the most stressed-out cases-thus it is ideal for cats living in loving homes, as well as shelter and rescued cats.”
Who Can Perform Reiki?
The good news is that anyone can learn Reiki. Reiki does not require years of practice, specific spiritual beliefs, or inherent healing abilities. Newcomers can begin practicing after receiving an attunement.
Sources:
Personal Experience
Fulton Elizabeth and Kathleen Prasad. Animal Reiki Using Energy to Heal the Animals in Your Life. Canada : Ulysses Press, 2006.
Prasad, Kathleen. “Reiki for Cats.” Feline Wellness Magazine December 2009: 18-19
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