What is Reiki and what does it do?

Reiki is a non-invasive method of healing that draws on the energy around us in the Universe to heal and balance the body. This energy is called Ki (hence Rei-ki), Chi or Prana in different ancient practices. It is the lifeforce energy that is in all things and the same Chi that is being worked with in Tai Chi, as well as the same Prana that we work with in Yoga. Reiki is great for promoting relaxation, easing stress or pain, balancing the body systems, and bringing us back to a place of inner peace and wellbeing. I've also worked with clients who are seriously ill, post-op and even nearing the end of their life, and this brought obvious peace to them in challenging times. Hospitals and health care professionals are increasingly recognising the benefits of Reiki as part of the healing and wellbeing process. It can sound a bit esoteric and really the best way to discover Reiki is to try a session. I myself was dubious about it when I first heard people talking Reiki, but then I experienced a session just by chance (or was it?!) and it rocked my world! I knew I had to learn more and that it had connected with me somehow. It wasn't long before I realised that I needed to commit myself to being a Reiki Practitioner, to help bring this healing energy to others as well as to support myself with this healing modality.

What happens at a Reiki appointment?

After a general assessment of your physical, emotional and mental wellbeing, you’ll lay down on a couch for the treatment or you could be seated if you prefer. You stay fully clothed; so do wear something comfy. Then the Reiki Practitioner either places hands on the body or will hover hands over you to transmit the Chi energy. Personally, I usually hover my hands and, in my experience, you’ll definitely feel the energy moving around the body! Depending on what’s needed by the body, the energy may feel hot or cold, you may feel tingling sensations, a warmth or just drift into a quiet place and maybe even take a nap! No matter what, Reiki is always harmonious with what your body needs at any given time.

At times, emotions can come up and this is totally normal. Let’s say you come for a treatment for pain in your knee, the energy can also work at a deeper level – if it’s needed. For example, if you’ve been carrying a pain or emotion in your body (tight hips or shoulders are a classic sign of this), this may start to shift gently. Inevitably, may well bring up some temporary emotions, but the release will ultimately help you to feel lighter and happier in yourself. Letting go is always a healing process. It's definitely good to work with a Reiki Practitioner who you feel at ease with and who you feel able to talk to, and this helps if you do need to let emotions out.

You may feel a bit “spacey” after any healing treatment and this is normal. Take time to rest up after your treatment. It’s also common to feel very thirsty for the rest of that day. Drink plenty of water to help flush out any toxins that have been released in the body. Equally, Reiki seems to increase the efficacy of vitamins and medications. For example, I have one client with diabetes who always finds their reading is quite different after they've had Reiki and they need to lower their medication that day. So do be aware of such potential effects.

Is one Reiki appointment enough to sort out all my issues?

You can certainly try a one-off appointment to see if you enjoy receiving a Reiki treatment. If you’re seeking relaxation, then it can be great to try an appointment. Generally, however, if you were working on something specific, then 3 appointments is recommended as a minimum. It's like with anything you really want to work on, it does take time and quick fixes often aren't lasting!

Just think: something you're working on, or that is holding you back, may have been in the body or dwelling in your mind for quite a while (even decades!), so we can’t honestly expect them to shift overnight. The body needs time to gently heal and slowly shift. By committing to a few Reiki sessions, you're giving yourself the care and attention you need for that. Committing yourself can also be an important way to show your body, mind and spirit that you really want to release things like emotions, habits and blocks. Follow-up Reiki sessions over time are great to maintain balance in the body and general wellbeing.

Can anyone give Reiki treatments?

Always go to a trained, accredited, Reiki Practitioner for your treatments. Practitioners should be trained to Level 2 or above. It’s good to check they are members of the UK Reiki Federation, or a similar body in your country, which regulates the profession and ensures training standards and good practice. Also, make sure your Reiki Practitioner is insured. In my training lineage, it's vital that the Reiki Practitioner is self-treating with Reiki, so you might ask your practitioner if they're doing this. Other than that, it's a case of choosing someone you feel comfortable with or who is recommended by someone you trust.

I hope this has enlightened you a little and that you'll consider trying Reiki for yourself. I'd love to hear your experiences.

Love & Light

Arwen