REIKI FAQ
WHAT IS REIKI?
Reiki is a traditional Japanese technique that reduces stress and promotes relaxation and healing. Reiki is based on the idea that an unseen life force energy flows through each of us. If one's life force energy is too low, we are more likely to get sick or feel stress; if it is restored to a more balanced level, we are more likely to be happy and healthy. Reiki is administered by "laying on hands".
The word Reiki is made up of two Japanese words - Rei which means "God's Wisdom or the Higher Power" and Ki which is "life force energy". So Reiki translates to "spiritually guided life force energy." A treatment feels like a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. Reiki treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind and spirit creating many beneficial effects such as: relaxation, feelings of peace, security and overall well-being. Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing and self-improvement that everyone can use. It always creates a beneficial effect. It also works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.
An amazingly simple technique to learn, the ability to use Reiki is not taught in the usual sense, but is transferred to the student during a Reiki class. This ability is passed on during an "attunement" given by a Reiki master and allows the student to tap into an unlimited supply of "life force energy" to improve one's health and enhance the quality of life. Its use is not dependent on one's intellectual capacity or spiritual development and therefore is available to everyone. It has been successfully taught to thousands of people of all ages and backgrounds.
While Reiki is spiritual in nature, it is not a religion. It has no dogma, and there is nothing you must believe in order to learn and use Reiki. In fact, Reiki is not dependent on belief at all and will work whether you believe in it or not. Because Reiki comes from God or Universal Source, many people find that using Reiki puts them more in touch with the experience of their own religion. While Reiki is not a religion, it is still important to live and act in a way that promotes harmony with others.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT WHEN I ARRIVE?
When you arrive at your Reiki session, I will greet you and ask that you fill out intake forms and will ask you about what you are seeking to get out of your treatment. Questions around any emotions or physical pain you may be feeling at that moment, as well as any recent traumas you have experienced and what areas, emotions or chakras you think need work.
The Reiki treatment itself consists of me placing my hands gently on (no placement on breast area or genitalia) or slightly above the clients body and start the flow of Reiki energy. The Reiki energy is intelligent for it knows where to go and what to do.
WHAT SHOULD I KNOW TO PREPARE FOR MY INITIAL REIKI SESSION?
Give yourself at least 30 minutes prior to the session to sit and reflect. Check in with how your body is feeling and take note of any emotions, thoughts, or physical sensations you are experiencing. Take some time to breathe and tend to whatever your body's needs might be on that given day. You may also want to reflect on any intentions you want to set for your session, and anything you want to share with me before you begin.
You’ll want to be sure you've eaten and hydrated a few hours before the session—mostly so you will be comfortable and not distracted by hunger or thirst. Avoid eating a heavy meal beforehand, however, as you don’t want all of your body’s energy to be directed toward digesting while you’re receiving your treatment.
You will be laying down for the majority of your session, since comfort is key if you want to be open to taking on and integrating the Reiki energy. Be sure you are wearing loose and breathable clothes. I usually tell my clients to either wear or bring socks since shoes are removed during the session and the feet can get cold. You’ll also want to use the restroom before the session. If the position you are in for your session is uncomfortable in any way, communicate this to me as I want you to be as relaxed as possible.
WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER MY SESSION?
Many of the benefits of Reiki can occur soon after the session ends. As such, it’s important to find somewhere quiet and relaxing to integrate what may arise. I recommend that my clients take at least 15-20 minutes after the session to meditate, lie down, go for a walk in nature, or even take a nap. Try not to book or schedule anything immediately after your session.
It’s important to hydrate after doing any type of energy work. Be sure to drink 1-2 glasses of water after your session. I find adding electrolytes to your water is also a good idea, as it helps to replenish the body. Energy work is often hungry work, and you may find yourself feeling peckish immediately after your session too. Be sure you listen to your body and choose a healthy snack or meal afterwards if needed. Eating can also help ground the body and as a bonus, you may find that piece of dark chocolate tastes extra good after energy work.
You may also decide to meditate afterwards or listen to calming and/or inspirational music. Whatever you choose to do, find an activity that helps you connect to what you've experienced so you can draw on it in future.
Reiki is extremely gentle and yet, since energy blockages are being cleared in the body during a session, discomfort can arise. Find out what the best way is to contact your practitioner and get in touch if anything feels physically or emotionally painful after your session.
Thank you to Sharna Langlais, Reiki Master for providing such eloquent answers to these questions. It is very much appreciated.