USING REIK.I FOR SELF-HEALING: THE EXPERIENCES OF PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS

Abstract

Several complementary therapies have been used by many people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) to improve their quality of life. One of those newly used modalities in Thailand is Reiki, a hands-on healing modality. The purpose of this study ·vas to describe the experience of HIV-positive persons in using Reiki for self-healing to enhance harmonious living with HIV/ AIDS. Reiki training was provided to 10 volunteers, HIV-positive persons from two hospitals in southern Th9iland. Participants were interviewed about their experiences using Reiki for self-healing. Symptom self-reports, observation of their practices, and field notes were collected. Content analysis was used to reveal the experience of using Reiki and its outcome. Six steps of transformational experiences which PL WHA learned from Reiki training were presented. These included: 1) an understanding of body-mind disharmony; 2) a change in feeling from unconfident to confident; 3) being active as an adult learner; 4) realizing positive outcomes; 5) integrating Reiki practice into daily life; and 6) becoming a harmonious person. Recommendations and implications for nursing were highlighted in order to enhance self-care management options among people living with HIV/AIDS.