A Ramsbottom holistic therapy centre has introduced a new energy-based treatment originating from the Far East.

Reiki, a Japanese form of energy healing and a type of alternative medicine, is now being offered at The Chakra Room on Shoemakers Court.

Reiki practitioners use a technique called palm healing or hands-on healing through which a "universal energy" is said to be transferred through the palms of the practitioner to the patient in order to encourage emotional or physical healing.

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Founder of The Chakra Room, Samantha Whittaker, along with a group of highly-qualified experts, is launching the Reiki Centre of Excellence, with a mission to deliver high quality treatments and training.

Over the years, the practice has grown, and while it has benefited many people, it has also meant that many inexperienced teachers are offering diluted courses.

The aim of the "Centre of Excellence" is to maintain the highest standards for all concerned.

It will launch on Saturday, March 11 at The Chakra Room at an event which will feature a series of talks, demonstrations and energy exercises.

Samantha and the team of founding members will offer reiki sessions for a small donation and be on hand to answer any questions on the topic.

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Samantha said: “It is now possible to train in many things for a small fee in a short space of time – but we passionately believe that a healing system such as reiki has a tradition and lineage that needs the utmost respect and continual personal and professional development.

“There is often no back up to support the student in this area but at The Reiki Centre of Excellence we have all of this in place.

“Our aim is to uphold traditional teachings while offering the space to evolve and expand awareness and practice to the highest potential.

“Excellence in all areas, together with deeply rooted skills and practices are at the top of our list.

“We offer this in the safe and sacred space of The Chakra Room within a supportive and expansive community.”

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She added: “We aim to demystify reiki, get rid of the 'fluffiness' that often surrounds it and focus on the hugely positive effect that it can have on people’s lives.

“Our message is that reiki is not just for a niche sector of the holistic community – it’s an accessible reality for everyone.

“We invite everyone to come along to our launch event – from an experienced master teacher to people who have never had a treatment.

“Everyone will benefit from what we are offering on the day and beyond.”

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