Healing the Whole Self: What Holistic Therapy Really Means

At Soul Sutra, healing is not just about treating symptoms—it’s about tending to the whole self. But what does that really mean?

Holistic therapy integrates traditional mental health treatment with practices that address the emotional, physical, spiritual, and energetic layers of a person. It’s rooted in the understanding that we are complex beings—our minds, bodies, and spirits are deeply intertwined. When one part of us is in distress, the others feel it, too.

Through my work as a therapist, Reiki Master Teacher, and Yoga Nidra facilitator, I’ve seen the power of combining evidence-based psychotherapy with energy work and mindfulness practices. And science is catching up with what many have known intuitively for centuries.

The Science Behind Meditation

Meditation is more than just relaxation—it's transformation. Research consistently shows its benefits:

• A 2014 meta-analysis in JAMA Internal Medicine found that mindfulness meditation can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and pain.

• A study from Harvard in 2011 found that just eight weeks of mindfulness meditation can lead to measurable changes in the brain—specifically in areas related to memory, empathy, stress regulation, and self-awareness.

Meditation helps individuals regulate their nervous systems, build emotional resilience, and reconnect with their inner wisdom.

Reiki and the Energetic Body

Reiki is often misunderstood, but studies have begun to explore its impact on well-being. Reiki is a gentle, hands-on (or hands-off) energy healing practice that promotes balance in the body's energetic system.

• A 2020 systematic review in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice concluded that Reiki may reduce stress, anxiety, and pain, particularly in clinical settings.

• Research from the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine has found that Reiki sessions can induce a deep relaxation response, which is critical for healing and recovery from trauma.

While more rigorous studies are still needed, many clients report feeling calmer, clearer, and more grounded after sessions.

Why It Matters

Traditional therapy is vital—but when combined with integrative approaches like Reiki and meditation, treatment becomes more expansive and personalized. At Soul Sutra, I honor both the science and the soul. Whether it’s through deep conversation, breathwork, guided rest, or energy healing, our time together is designed to support your growth on every level.

Healing is not linear. It’s layered, gentle, messy, and sacred. Holistic therapy holds space for all of that.

Interested in learning more or booking a session?

Contact Me

References

1. Goyal, M., Singh, S., Sibinga, E. M. S., et al. (2014). Meditation Programs for Psychological Stress and Well-being: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Internal Medicine, 174(3), 357–368. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamainternmed.2013.13018

2. Hölzel, B. K., Carmody, J., Vangel, M., et al. (2011). Mindfulness practice leads to increases in regional brain gray matter density. Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging, 191(1), 36–43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pscychresns.2010.08.006

3. Baldwin, A. L., Vitale, A., Brownell, E., Scicinski, J., Kearns, M., & Rand, W. (2017). Effects of Reiki on Pain, Anxiety, and Blood Pressure in Patients Undergoing Knee Replacement: A Pilot Study. Holistic Nursing Practice, 31(2), 80–89. https://doi.org/10.1097/HNP.0000000000000197

4. McManus, D. E. (2017). Reiki Is Better Than Placebo and Has Broad Potential as a Complementary Health Therapy. Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, 22(4), 1051–1057. https://doi.org/10.1177/2156587217728644

5. Thrane, S., & Cohen, S. M. (2014). Effect of Reiki Therapy on Pain and Anxiety in Adults: An In-depth Literature Review of Randomized Trials with Effect Size Calculations. Pain Management Nursing, 15(4), 897–908. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmn.2013.07.008