Reiki (pronounced ray-key) - a Japanese technique known for stress reduction, relaxation and healing, and great treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder - is now free on Fridays for military personnel at Puyallup Valley Reiki on 5th Street in Puyallup.

"It's a simple, safe and natural method of healing," said owner Sara-Michelle Denis. "It can be used by anyone and has a calming effect and allows the body to reset and recharge - thus beginning the healing process."

Reiki is a form of energy medicine. Administered by a trained specialist who places his or her hands near the body's Chakra points, it allows Ki-energy to flow through the person receiving treatment. It unblocks energy and emotions, and opens up one's Chakras, Denis said.

"I was very skeptical when I first heard of Reiki," said Alan, an active-duty Soldier, in a testimonial. "Allowing myself to surrender control and submit to a form of energy medicine is rather unorthodox for me. But Sara offered it (for free) and got nothing in return, and that convinced me. I have no regrets."

"Healing touch has a profound effect on a person's mind, body and spirit," Denis said.  "And Reiki is practiced in the hospice program at Good Samaritan Hospital and at Stanford Medical Center and John Hopkins. It's not a massage though, and can be performed without hands. It isn't spiritual in nature either, but it can transform your life."

She first encountered the technique after medication and therapy didn't help with her health problems.

"It gave me an energy boost," she said, "and I felt immediate results, and it helped with a lot of things I was going through at the time, including stress and anxiety. I do Reiki on myself and my 17-year-old son."

Denis has also helped more than 50 people, including her husband, who suffers with prostate cancer.

"It acts as a compliment to treatment and medication," she said, "and has lowered his blood pressure. It also really helps many of my military patients and veterans suffering with PTSD symptoms."

"It's hard to explain in words," said Alan, a DuPont resident, "but I felt a lot of negativity and stress being drained from my body. I came away feeling different and more positive about things and about life itself. I highly recommend giving it a chance."

A typical Reiki session costs $60 and lasts 90 minutes. However, in addition to Free Reiki Fridays, veterans, active-duty military, retirees and their respective family members also receive 50 percent off Reiki treatments Monday through Thursday and on Saturdays. There are also student and senior discounts. Sessions are by appointment only, and patients should plan on spending two hours at the Reiki studio.

To schedule an appointment, visit www.puyallupvalleyreiki.com or call Denis at (253) 355-0195.