HEAL-SLE: Holistic Energy for Alleviating Lupus Symptoms

A Pilot Study Evaluating the Effect and Feasibility of Virtual Reiki Therapy as a Complementary Treatment for Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

The purpose of this study is to assess the efficacy, feasibility, and acceptability of Virtual Reiki therapy as a complementary treatment for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The study also aims to investigate the feasibility, acceptability, and adherence of integrating Virtual Reiki therapy within the healthcare system for patients with SLE. Participants receiving standard of care (SOC) treatment for SLE will continue SOC while receiving research-specific Virtual Reiki therapy once per week for 8 weeks. Each study session will be delivered remotely by a Certified Reiki Practitioner Level II or higher.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adult aged 18 and older at the time of informed consent
2. Diagnosed with SLE (based on 2019 American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/ European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) criteria)
3. Currently receiving SOC treatment for SLE at NYU Langone Orthopedic Center
4. Able and willing to provide consent and participate in 8 weekly virtual Reiki sessions
5. Has access to reliable internet, have an active email address, and able to utilize WebEx
6. Able to read, speak and understand English

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Under 18 years of age
2. Patients experiencing severe disease activity requiring hospitalization at time of screening
3. Unable to read, speak and understand English
4. No access to internet
5. Not willing to participate in weekly virtual Reiki sessions
6. Currently enrolled in another interventional clinical trial