Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. We all have an unseen “life force energy”  (called Ki by the Japanese, Chi-Chinese, Prana – by some other cultures across Asia) which flows through us and is what causes us (and every living organism) to be alive. If one’s life force energy is low or imbalanced, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is balanced, we are capable of being happy and healthy. Reiki (Rei – Universal life energy, Ki – breath, life force) among other disciplines is one of the techniques that controls and enhances the flow of this energy.

Reiki can help to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual healing by restoring the balance of life force energy within the body. It can also help to reduce stress, anxiety, and pain, improve sleep, boost the immune system, and promote healing, overall relaxation and wellbeing. Reiki has no contraindications so is completely safe for pregnant women, babies, children and animals.

Reiki is typically practiced through a series of hand positions, in which the practitioner places their hands lightly on or near the body of the recipient. The recipient remains fully clothed and usually lies down on a massage table or sits in a chair. The practitioner then channels the life force energy through their hands to the recipient, promoting healing and relaxation.

During a typical Reiki treatment you may feel any of the following sensations – these are normal and nothing to worry about; heat, coolness, tingling, rumbling stomach, pins and needles, you could also see colours, past lifestyle flashes or have emotional responses (crying etc). You could fall asleep and that is absolutely fine. Its also possible to not feel anything but this doesn’t mean that the Reiki isn’t working, it works on a subtle level and you could notice changes within the following days/weeks

After treatment you should feel calm and relaxed

Yes, Reiki can be done remotely through a technique known as distant healing. In this practice, the Reiki practitioner channels the life force energy to the recipient, who may be in a different location, through visualization and intention.

There is no specific preparation needed for a Reiki session, although it is recommended to wear comfortable loose clothing, remove large items of jewellery and to avoid alcohol, consuming large meals or caffeine prior to the session. It is also important to communicate any health concerns or conditions to the Reiki practitioner before the session begins.