What is Reiki?
Reiki, an alternative therapy commonly referred to as energy healing, is a relaxation technique that has been reported to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It originated in Japan and involves the transfer of what’s known as universal life energy (prana, chi) through a trained and certified practitioner, who serves as a channel. The practitioner will assess, and then clear and balance each chakra (“chaa-kruh,” pronounced with the “ch” sound like in the word “chess”), a Sanskrit word that refers to the main energy centers/energy wheels of the body.
Reiki is usually administered on a massage table in a quiet, peaceful setting to a fully clothed individual. If lying down is uncomfortable or challenging for some clients, sitting upright in a chair is also possible. Light, non-invasive touch or no touch at all may be involved, based on the client’s preferences. Aromatherapy and sound healing instruments may also be used, based on the client’s preferences. Sound healing involves the use of vibrations from various musical instruments (drums, singing bowls, tuning forks, etc.) to promote relaxation in the mind and body. Reiki is not intended for use in diagnosing, treating, or preventing dis-ease.
What can reiki help with?
reducing stress
improving sleep
improving digestion
improving focus
supporting recovery from injury or surgery
anxiety
depression
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
migraines
fertility
chronic pain
What can I expect from a reiki session? What do I need to do to prepare for it?
Before the session, reserve space in your schedule for yourself so that you are not rushing to another commitment right away. Wear loose, comfortable clothes to the session. Avoid caffeine, smoking, alcohol, large meals before the session. Take time to share with the practitioner about any injuries, scars, sensitivities, and specific needs. The practitioner will walk you through a brief client history and consent form during your first visit.
During the session, the practitioner will move her hands around you using light, non-invasive touch and/or hovering above the physical body. You may experience sensations in your body such as heat or tingling, visualize colors or images, or notice old memories appear/resurface. Emotional release may also come up through crying/tearfulness or laughing. Some people fall asleep or enter a sleep-like state and experience deep relaxation. You are encouraged to keep an open mind and open heart, as people’s first time experiencing reiki can range from subtle/uneventful to intense. Don’t put expectations on yourself or force yourself to relax; allow the reiki to relax you.
After the session, you may feel refreshed and energized, becoming more grounded and focused; however, you may also feel more tired in the evening than usual, an indication of the body’s natural healing response. Pay attention to what your body needs and prioritize rest and sleep as much as possible. If certain thoughts or memories repeat themselves, consider journaling or meditating on them without judgment. In order for buried emotional/mental/spiritual wounds to heal, they must first come to the surface and this often feels unfamiliar and uncomfortable for most people. For further insight or guidance, always feel free to contact the reiki practitioner with any questions or comments as you move through your process.
Sherri Huang is practicing Reiki at CLINIC Fridays 3- 9pm.