What is Reiki healing and how does it work?

Reiki is a Japanese word that means spiritual energy. It is the universal energy that permeates all living things. Reiki healing can help lower stress and anxiety, reduce blockages, restore balance, and promote healing in the body.

Reiki healing works beyond time and space. This is why it is possible to send Reiki healing to someone even if they are not physically in the same room as the practitioner, known as distance Reiki healing. It can also be sent across time. For example, to a past event or trauma in order to help a person with present-day challenges that may be connected to it.

Reiki practitioners channel the universal energy using intention – quite simply, setting the intention to channel Reiki. When intention is set, they will begin to feel Reiki flow into their body. Reiki practitioners are able to channel the energy at will because they have been attuned to the energy by a Reiki Master.

If you are receiving Reiki healing in person, it is typically done while you are lying down on a massage table, with your clothes on. Once the practitioner is ready, they will place their hands on your body usually starting at the top of your head, although some Reiki practitioners first begin at the back of the neck to perform a technique known as The Still Point.

Although Reiki healing is a hands-on practice, you may choose to have hands-off treatment if you prefer. Just let your Reiki practitioner know. This can be for the entire treatment or over specific areas of your body. Of course, sensitive areas must always be hands-off.

Reiki practitioners must be certified to Reiki Level II or higher, and have professional liability insurance for Reiki services, before they are permitted to offer Reiki healing to members of the public (whether free or not). This is a legal requirement in many countries, such as the UK.

Many people that receive Reiki healing describe the experience as being very relaxing, peaceful and rejuvenating. Some people also experience a gentle release of emotions.

You do not need to understand the system of Reiki or have any particular belief system to benefit from this healing energy. You just need to be open to receiving healing, and your body will do the rest.