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What is Reiki? Reiki is a relatively modern, formal system of healing that originated in Japan in the 1800s with Dr. Mikao Usui. Originally called the Usui System of Natural Healing, Reiki uses specific symbols, hand positions, philosophies and techniques to send safe healing energy through a person. Whether there is physical, emotional, mental or spiritual distress, Reiki energy finds the areas where it is most needed and removes these blockages. "Rei" is generally understood to mean "universal", while "ki" in Japan means "life force." Different cultures recognize this life force energy also as chi, prana, mana, rauch and chai. The energy is universal, found in all animals, plants, people, and the earth. Practitioners of Reiki have been trained to direct the universal energy for the highest intent of the person receiving it. Practitioners cannot use Reiki to control a person's mind or body. In effect, a practitioner is simply like a straw, through which Reiki flows, for the highest good of the recipient. Reiki is not dependent on belief, and will work whether one believes in it or not. While Reiki is spiritual in nature, it is not a religion and has no dogma. Regardless, many practitioners of Reiki attempt to live and act in a way that promotes harmony with others.
What to expect during a treatment
In all cases, your practitioner should brief you ahead of time on what to expect. Practices will vary, but listed below are general guidelines. You will most likely be asked to lie down on a massage table, although a Reiki session may be given in a chair, couch or bed - or even distantly if needed. You will remain fully clothed, except for your shoes. On the day of your appointment, try to wear loose-fitting natural fabrics such as cotton, wool, or linen. You may be asked to remove jewelry (rings, bracelets, pendants, watches) prior to the session.
Practitioners will create a relaxing atmosphere for your session, sometimes with the use of low lights, meditative or vibrationally-appropriate music, essential oils and/or incense. If any of these practices do not appeal to you, please mention this to the practitioner ahead of time. Sessions can last anywhere from 30-90 minutes. The practitioner may or may not touch you. There are different schools of thought on this, and different legal requirements in different states, but the bottom line is that there is no need for touching. Reiki energy flows anyway, and will get to where it needs to go. Your practitioner is trained to ask your permission anyway, but if you are uncomfortable with touching for any reason, be sure to mention that. During treatment you may feel heat or cold, funny sensations inside or outside your body, you may hear noises inside your body, you may see visions, or experience emotions you were not expecting. All of this is normal, and if you want to, you should not be afraid to discuss what you are experiencing with your practitioner. Some people fall asleep; that is perfectly fine as well. Healing will occur, regardless. When treatment is over, you should take a moment to 'ground' yourself. Drink some water, or some tea, and take your time: do not rush off to your next appointment. Over the next few days be sure to drink plenty of water, to keep the energy moving. If, post-treatment, you have unusual symptoms it is possible that you are experiencing a "healing awareness," which is discussed in more detail below. |
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