Tell Me More About: Reiki

“Tell Me More About:” is an on-going series that highlights types of bodywork and treatments in an effort to let you become an informed and curious consumer. Hopefully it will encourage you to explore some of these modalities and see if they are right for you.

Today we will be discussing Reiki. Pronounced “RAY-key”, it is increasingly found in spa and wellness centers across the United States. But what is it, exactly?

The word itself is actually a combination of two Japanese words: “Rei”, meaning spirituality or higher power, and “Ki” meaning life force. Reiki is not a religion, although some practitioners will say they feel connected to something higher than themselves when practicing. Reiki is, to put it very simply, “Universal Positive Energy.”

There are many different types of Reiki being practiced in the Western World today. One of the most common is Usui Reiki, named after Mikao Usui who developed the technique in 1920’s Japan. A student of his student, Mrs. Hawayo Takata, brought the healing technique to the United States.

Reiki falls under the category of “energy work.” Essentially, a Reiki practitioner will either rest their hands gently on you or slightly over you to affect your subtle energetic body. The treatments are highly relaxing and completely safe for all body types, illnesses and conditions. There are no contraindications when it comes to Reiki; the energy goes where it is most needed and will do what will help the client the most.

What does it feel like? Well, it feels like different things to different people. Many experience Reiki as a feeling of warmth. Clients will often report feeling their practitioner’s hands becoming very warm. It can also be a tingling sensation, a chilled sensation, an emotional or physical response, or even nothing at all.

Clients will sometimes say: “I didn’t feel anything, I don’t think it worked.” The nice thing about Reiki is, it always works. The effects can be very subtle, and it can take a while to notice the change. Reiki can trigger a muscular release, an emotional release, or just an over-all feeling of well-being and relaxation. It can be profound or subtle, depending on your needs in the moment.

Reiki is performed with the client fully clothed, though the practitioner may offer you a blanket as your body temperature can drop during your time on the table. Depending on the length of your session you might remain just face-up or face-down for the entire time, or you may experience both positions. Reiki can also be performed with the client comfortably seated.

If you would like more information on Reiki, we suggest you follow the link to The International Center for Reiki Training for more information.