WHAT IS REIKI?
Reiki is a Japanese form of energy healing and is a treatment that works holistically; on the whole body, mind, and spirit. During reiki, practitioners act as conduits using a technique called hands-on healing that allows our universal life force energy to be transferred through the hands and into the body of the person being treated. The purpose of a Reiki treatment is to remove blockages that bring imbalances to our homeostasis, relieve stress and pain, promote relaxation, release emotional holdings, support natural healing, and balance subtle body energies.
Energy healing aims to help energy flow and remove blockages in a similar way to acupuncture and acupressure. When the energy flow in and around the body is improved, the body’s capacity for healing is increased through the reduction of pain-related symptoms while also activating a deep sense of relaxation during the treatment.
Up until recently, the effectiveness of reiki could not necessarily be measured in scientific terms because “energy” was not considered quantifiable. But in recent studies, there has been substantial data produced backing the effectiveness of energy healing in relation to bringing more balance to our energetic and physical body. It has also been backed by major institutions like John Hopkins University.
During a reiki treatment, you can expect to spend anywhere from 30 minutes, an hour, or in some cases 90 minutes with your practitioner. The treatment takes place on a massage table, similar to acupuncture or massage. Depending on yours or the practitioners’ preference, reiki may be done with a light gentle pressure static touch or their hands maybe a few inches or centimeters above your body at the hand positioners with no actual touch.
There are standard hand placements beginning at your head or feet, avoiding all sensitive body parts. Just like with massage you can check in with your practitioner as you go. At the practitioner’s hand placements, you will likely feel a very slight tingling, heat, or energy. Sometimes you feel nothing at all, which isn’t a bad thing or does not mean it isn’t working - the sensations you feel during your treatment have more to do with how your body senses energy.
You will likely feel a sense of peace (which is the whole point!) in your mind or physically. It’s different for everyone but it’s a pretty consistently relaxing treatment.
We can all use a little extra relaxing and healing. If this peaks your interest please reach out to our office and make an appointment to invest in your healing practice!
