Reiki is a form of energy healing with roots in ancient cultures and is a complementary therapy used worldwide.
Originating in Japan, “Reiki” is a word that means “universal life energy.” Reiki is a healing technique in which an attuned therapist places their hands on or near the client’s body and sends energy to the client to activate the body’s ability to heal itself and restore balance (Zandro S, et al. 2022).
In the early 20th century, Reiki was developed by Mikao Usui, a Japanese Buddhist monk. Usui discovered that Reiki could assist physical, mental, and emotional well-being (Triplett, S. 2024).
Reiki is a spiritual practice that addresses the person as a whole—body, mind, and spirit. It encourages self-awareness, introspection, and personal growth, all of which are part of a spiritual journey (Tiller, J. 2023). Clients should be aware that although reiki—like yoga or meditation—may have roots in spiritual practices from long ago. Modern reiki is not classed as a religion. Practitioners and clients come from all walks of life and belief systems (Forbes, 2024)
Experiences during a Reiki session vary from person to person. Some people experience immediate and dramatic results, while others may notice more subtle benefits over time. Reiki promotes relaxation and aims to enhance the natural power of the body to heal itself. Several studies indicate that using Reiki leads to a decrease in symptoms related to illness, hypertension, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, mood disorders, and stress (Paiva Morero JA, et al. 2021).
While Reiki can easily be done in just about any location, a typical Reiki session occurs in a relaxing environment or treatment room. A conversation happens before the session, as Reiki is often practiced with a specific intention, such as promoting healing, reducing pain, or fostering emotional well-being.
Practitioners note clients usually feel relaxed after a session, but some feel energised or emotional depending on the nature of the problem the Reiki was focused on.
If you have questions or want to book a reiki session, please email erawellbeing@outlook.com.
References:
Paiva Morero JA, et al. (2021). Effects of reiki on mental health care.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/352410172_effects_of_reiki_on_mental_health_care_a_systematic_review
Reiki: What it is, techniques, benefits, risks, and more (medicalnewstoday.com)
Triplett, S. (2024, September 20). Reiki. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/science/Reiki
Tiller, J. (2023) Is reiki spiritual? unravelling the deep connection between Reiki and spirituality, Reiki Scape. Available at: https://reikiscape.com/is-reiki-spiritual-unraveling-the-deep-connection-between-reiki-and-spirituality. (Accessed: 24 September 2024).
What Is Reiki? Benefits and Risks (healthline.com)
What is reiki and how does it work? (2024) Forbes. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/health/wellness/what-is-reiki/ (Accessed: 24 September 2024).
Zandro S, et al. (2022). Does reiki benefit mental health symptoms above placebo?
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.897312/full
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