Reiki FAQs

What is Reiki? The Usui System of Reiki Healing is a hands-on healing practice. Reiki is an ancient laying-on-of-palms healing technique that uses the Universal life force energy to balance the subtle energies within our bodies and to heal. Reiki practitioners act as a conduit or channel through which Reiki energy travels. The intended result of receiving Reiki is a balanced physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual being. Reiki is being used today in clinics and hospitals all over the world to support health, wellness and transition. 

What happens during an in-person Reiki treatment? During an in-person Reiki treatment, you will lay fully clothed on a massage table, covered in a blanket if you choose, listening to soothing music. Your Reiki practitioner will lay their hands on your body in a series of hand positions to deliver Reiki energy. A Reiki treatment generally covers first the front of your body and then the back of your body. If the reclined position is uncomfortable, Reiki can be performed while you sit in a chair or on a stool. If you prefer not to be touched, Reiki can be delivered from a few inches away from the body.

What does Reiki feel like? Reiki tends to feel warm and profoundly relaxing. You may feel the hands of the Reiki practitioner become hot or tingly. Some people describe a floating sensation and some see colors or shapes during the session. Some people fall asleep. Some experience emotional release. There is no expected experience- Reiki treatment is unique for each individual who receives it. 

What is a Distant Reiki treatment like? In Distant Reiki treatments, the practitioner connects to your energy, and sends you Reiki. You may notice physical sensations during the Distant Reiki session, just as you would during an in-person session—warmth, tingling, or a sense of relaxation or peacefulness, for example. You might also notice the mind calming down or the alleviation of physical symptoms.

What are the benefits of several sessions? Just like meditation, or movement arts, the effects of Reiki are cumulative. While one session can work wonders, repeated, regular Reiki treatments can invite significant improvement. As an example: if you exercise for an hour, you will receive benefit. If you exercise every day for a month, the results will be much more profound. Reiki works similarly – regular sessions support well-being in every way.

Can Reiki “cure” me? Reiki is a complementary medical art that works well alone as well as in concert with other treatments. Healing is often the result of gentle shifts in awareness, release of emotional patterns, achievement of new understanding, and daily practice. Reiki is not a replacement for traditional medical treatment.

What are the possible side effects of Reiki?

Everyone is different and can have a different reaction to Reiki. While many experience positive side effects, it is not uncommon to experience discomfort after Reiki treatment as well. Reiki can cause old emotions and mental patterns to get unblocked and come up to be healed. Sadness, anger, and fears might surface. It is also possible that the body begins to release toxins after Reiki treatment, which can cause headache, upset stomach, and tiredness. The best approach to emotional discomfort is holding space for the emotions that arise with the help of a therapist if needed, while drinking lots of water and rest are best for physical discomfort.