Reiki is an alternative form of energy healing that traces its origins to ancient Chinese and Japanese medicine practices. The term itself is a combination of the Japanese words “rei,” meaning “universal,” and “ki,” meaning “life energy.” Together, these words form the term “Reiki,” which refers to universal life force energy, or the energy believed to be present in every living being.
Today, Reiki is typically used as a complement to traditional medical treatment. Many believe that Reiki supports the body’s natural healing process and promotes relaxation, balance, and overall well-being.
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How Does Reiki Work?
Reiki therapy works by having the practitioner use light touch, or hands held slightly above the body, to help guide the flow of energy throughout the recipient’s body. The practitioner does not cause the healing, nor do they generate the energy. Instead, they serve as a conduit, helping guide Reiki energy to the areas where it may be most needed.
In studying Reiki, students learn different techniques from a master-level Reiki practitioner, who serves as a teacher or sensei. While Reiki is generally considered a spiritual practice similar to meditation, many Reiki practitioners collaborate with medical schools and other traditional medical practitioners to better understand how it works. Despite its spiritual nature, Reiki is not a religion and should not be viewed through that lens.
Anyone interested in learning more about Reiki treatment should begin by understanding the idea of universal life force energy. This energy, called “ki” in Japanese and often referred to as “chi” in Chinese, is believed to underlie everything in existence. Chi or ki is thought to move through multiple energy systems that interact with one another, from person to person and between a person and their environment.
Many illnesses and ailments within the human body are thought to result from imbalances in a person’s energy. Reiki therapy aims to help correct those imbalances by supporting a smoother, more balanced flow of energy. Practitioners often work along the chakras, or energy points, that run along the spine.
What Are the 5 Central Elements of Reiki?
There are five elements practitioners rely on when channeling Reiki energy:
1. Attunements or initiations. These occur when a Reiki master teaches a student and passes along Reiki energy.
2. Hand positions. These are used by Reiki practitioners during a session to help guide and balance energy.
3. Meditation. This is the process of connecting with the universal Reiki source to focus on energy healing.
4. Symbols. Reiki symbols represent different purposes within the practice. They help practitioners connect to higher levels of energy healing.
5. Principles. The five Reiki principles represent the philosophy of Reiki and help guide healing, mindfulness, and energy balance.
What Are the Methods Used in Reiki?
Reiki healers use various traditional hand positions to help balance energy and encourage energy flow within the body. The amount of time spent on each area may vary depending on a person’s specific needs. Below are examples of common hand positions typically used by a Reiki practitioner while the recipient is lying on their back:
Palm on the head. The practitioner lightly places the palms of their hands over a person’s forehead. They may also gently cup the recipient’s eyes.
Hands on the side of the head. The Reiki healer places their hands along the sides of a person’s face and temples.
Head cradled. The practitioner cradles a person’s head in both hands while resting on the table beneath them.
Jaw and throat. The Reiki healer applies light touches to a person’s jaw and throat.
Neck and chest. The practitioner places one hand over the recipient’s neck or collarbone area while the other hand hovers near the heart chakra, around the center of the chest.
Upper abdomen. The Reiki healer places their hands on a person's upper abdomen.
Solar plexus. The practitioner places their hands on a recipient’s mid-abdomen or solar plexus.
Lower abdomen. The Reiki healer places their hands on a person’s lower abdomen below the recipient’s navel.
Depending on an individual’s comfort and ability to move into different positions, a Reiki practitioner may recommend a specific position, such as lying on the stomach or sitting upright. The position used will depend on what the Reiki healer feels best supports the client’s needs.
What Are the Health Benefits of Reiki?
Reiki treatment has been shown to help support relaxation. Many people report feeling better mentally, physically, and emotionally after a session.
While current studies are inconclusive when it comes to proving the benefits of Reiki healing, there is anecdotal evidence that it may help people dealing with stress and other emotional difficulties. Conditions that people have sought Reiki therapy for include:
- Anxiety;
- Cancer;
- Chronic pain;
- Depression;
- Fatigue;
- Heart disease.
It is recommended that individuals use Reiki healing alongside, not in place of, recommended medical treatments.
What Questions Should You Ask a Reiki Practitioner?
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People should feel comfortable asking a Reiki practitioner questions about their practice. However, it is also helpful to independently verify the level and quality of services they provide.
As with any wellness or supportive care practice, those seeking Reiki treatment should do additional research on the background, credentials, and overall experience of the Reiki practitioner. Before working with a practitioner, consider asking the following questions:
- What level of Reiki training do you have?
- Where were you trained?
- How long did you spend learning the various levels of Reiki?
- How much clinical experience have you had using Reiki to support people with concerns similar to mine?
Listen carefully to the practitioner’s answers. If they do not appear to have the background or experience you are looking for, you can continue your search. Many Reiki practitioners expand their knowledge by spending time in different health and wellness environments. You may also ask for references or look for reviews from previous clients.
How Can You Find a Reiki Practitioner?
People can start by asking their circle of friends. One of your friends may already work with a Reiki practitioner or may even be one themselves. A friend who is familiar with Reiki may be able to recommend qualified Reiki healers. If they are practitioners, they may offer Reiki treatments as well.
People can also look for Reiki practitioners associated with healthcare facilities, wellness centers, or medical schools. Trusted doctors and wellness professionals may also be good resources for recommendations.
Sofia Health is an excellent source, too. We help connect people to Reiki masters and other health and wellness professionals capable of helping clients deal with specific spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional issues. Visit Sofia Health to start searching for a Reiki healer today.
