Rebalancing Energy to Combat Chronic Stress
Restoring Balance and Resilience with Reiki and Acupuncture
by Wendy Fritz, RN, R.Ac., MSTOM, Dipl.O.M.
No matter your background, beliefs, or lifestyle, we are living in unprecedented times. Our world is marked by shifting ideologies, rapid technological change, and increasing uncertainty. These realities affect us all, often leaving us with heightened levels of stress, anxiety, or even depression. Over time, carrying this burden takes a toll on both mind and body.
Research has shown that stress alters brain chemistry, which in turn impacts nearly every system in the body. While short bursts of stress can be unpleasant, they are usually temporary and often harmless. The problem arises when stress is intense, prolonged, or overwhelms our ability to adapt. In those cases, the chemical messengers released during stress—such as catecholamines, which increase heart rate and blood pressure—stop being protective and start causing harm. Chronic activation of this system can contribute to high blood pressure, heart damage, stroke risk, poor sleep, and chronic inflammation.
Breaking free from this cycle is difficult, especially when our environment constantly signals us to stay on high alert. The body becomes caught in a feedback loop: stress creates physical symptoms, which then generate more stress. While medication can help, it often takes time and may cause unwanted side effects. Complementary practices such as Reiki and acupuncture offer additional pathways for relief, with few—if any—side effects.
Both Reiki and acupuncture focus on working with the body’s natural energy systems to restore balance. Acupuncture, a central practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine, uses fine needles placed at specific points along energy pathways called meridians. By stimulating these points, acupuncture helps redirect energy flow, calming overactive areas or strengthening depleted ones.
Reiki, a Japanese practice that draws on the concept of chakras (energy centers described in Indian traditions), takes a different approach. Rather than needles, Reiki practitioners use gentle hand placements or work within the energetic space around the body. This makes Reiki a helpful option for individuals who are needle-sensitive, highly anxious, or navigating trauma where physical touch may increase discomfort.
Though their methods differ, both practices aim to guide the nervous system out of a chronic stress response into a state of relaxation. In this calmer state, the body can better regulate key functions—metabolism, heart rate, sleep cycles, hormone balance, blood flow, and immune response. With these systems working more smoothly, the body’s natural healing capacity is restored, supporting homeostasis, resilience, and overall wellness.
We may never eliminate stress entirely—nor should we, since some stress can motivate growth. But in times as unpredictable as ours, the cumulative effects of chronic stress can feel overwhelming. Reiki and acupuncture provide powerful tools to help break the cycle, restore balance, and empower us to move through daily life with greater ease, health, and adaptability.
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Click here to learn more about Rachel Harvey, Reiki Practitioner and Holistic Nutritionist, who practices at our office.