What is Reiki and how does it work?

Feb 02’2022, By Tamara Weiland

What is Reiki? Reiki, “rei” (universal) and “ki” (life energy), originates from Japan and is a holistic energy healing practice as it involves the transfer of universal energy from the practitioner’s palms to their client.

Reiki as practiced in the western world today was developed by the Buddhist priest Mikao Usui (known as Usui-Sensei) in the 1920s. There is evidence that other styles of Reiki were being practiced in Japan before Usui created his style, known as Usui Reiki, but these earlier styles weren’t widely known.

According to practitioners, energy can stagnate in the body where there has been physical injury or possibly emotional pain. In time, these energy blocks can cause illness. Reiki aims to help the flow of energy and remove blocks in a similar way to acupuncture or acupressure. It improves the flow of energy around the body and it’s energy field.

How does the healing session work?

Reiki is best held in a peaceful setting, it can be carried out physically present or from a distance, over a video or phone call. In a physical session, the client will lie on a massage table, fully clothed. The practitioner will then lay healing crystals on your body and lightly place their hands on or above different areas of the client’s body and energy centers (chakras & nadis). Depending on the client’s needs a session can last from 30-60 minutes. The intention is to create deep relaxation, to help speed healing, reduce pain and decrease other symptoms people may be experiencing.

What are the benefits of Reiki?

Boosts mood, decreases fatigue, lowers stress
Reduces tension, headaches, and nausea
Relieves physical and emotional pain
Relieves symptoms of depression and anxiety
Improves insomnia and sleeping problems
Balances body, mind and spirit
Improved sense of relaxation and inner peace

Who could benefit from a Reiki session?

A Reiki therapy session is beneficial for any individual, there is 0 harm or side effect in undergoing Reiki when done by a professional. Reiki is especially recommended for people that are experiencing some imbalance in their life, may it be physically or emotionally and that are seeking alternative healing modalities. It is also for individuals who desire to balance their energy system (chakras) to see transformative change in their lives.

How does Reiki feel like?

You may experience the energy in the form of sensations like heat, cold, tingling or pulsing where the Reiki practitioner has placed their hands. Sometimes, people feel sensations moving throughout the body and feel the urge to cleanse their energy in form of crying, while other people do not perceive any change at all. Most people feel very relaxed and peaceful during Reiki treatment and many fall asleep during the process. Know that it varies from person to person, and there is no ‘right’ way of feeling the energy.