What is Reiki?

Reiki is a complementary health approach originating in Japan. Practitioners place their hands lightly on or just above a person with the goal of directing "universal energy" to facilitate the person's own healing response. The Japanese word "Reiki" translates to "universal life energy." The practice is based on the belief that this vital energy flows through all living things and is essential for well-being. When this energy flow is disrupted or blocked, it is believed to lead to physical or emotional imbalances. 

During a Reiki session, the practitioner acts as a conduit, channeling this universal energy to the recipient. This is typically done through a series of hand positions held for a few minutes each, either lightly touching the body or held just above it. The intention is to promote relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, relieve pain, and support the body's natural healing abilities. Reiki can help with:

Promoting Relaxation and Reducing Stress & Anxiety:

• Induces a deep state of calm: Many recipients describe feeling profoundly relaxed during and after a session, similar to the feeling after a massage or meditation. This relaxation can help to ease tension in the body and mind. 
• May lower stress hormones: Some studies suggest that Reiki and other energy healing techniques might help to lower stress hormones like cortisol. 
• Shifts the nervous system: Reiki may help to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the "rest and digest" response, which is the opposite of the "fight or flight" stress response. This can lead to a slower heart rate, lower blood pressure, and a feeling of peace.
• Encourages mindfulness: By focusing on the sensations and the present moment during a session, Reiki can promote a sense of mindfulness, helping individuals to detach from worries and anxieties. 

Pain Management:

• May reduce the perception of pain: Some individuals report a decrease in pain levels after Reiki sessions. This could be due to the relaxation of muscles, the calming of the nervous system, or potentially the placebo effect. 
• Complements other pain treatments: Reiki is often used alongside conventional medical treatments for pain management without interfering with them. 
• May address emotional components of pain: Some practitioners believe that Reiki can help release stored emotions that may contribute to physical pain and tension.

Improving Mood and Emotional Well-being:

• May alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety: Some studies and anecdotal reports suggest that regular Reiki sessions can contribute to improved mood and a reduction in feelings of anxiety and depression. 
• Promotes feelings of peace and well-being: Many people experience an enhanced sense of overall well-being, emotional balance, and inner harmony after Reiki. 
• Supports emotional healing: Reiki may help individuals process difficult emotions and release negative patterns. 

Enhancing Sleep Quality:

• May improve sleep patterns: The relaxation induced by Reiki can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. 
• Can reduce insomnia symptoms: Some studies have shown improvements in sleep quality for individuals receiving Reiki. 

Supporting Overall Health and Well-being:

• May boost the body's self-healing abilities: The theory behind Reiki is that by promoting energy flow and balance, it supports the body's natural capacity to heal itself. 
• Can be a complementary therapy for various conditions: Reiki is used by people facing a range of health challenges, including cancer, chronic conditions, and post-surgical recovery, to potentially ease symptoms and support their overall well-being. 
• May increase self-awareness: Some individuals find that Reiki helps them become more attuned to their bodies and their emotional states.