Reiki FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be lying down on a massage table or sitting?

A: Reiki is usually performed on a client who is fully reclined comfortably on a massage table. It also may be performed on a client who is semi-reclined on a massage chair or recliner. If you have mobility or pain issues please communicate these to your Practitioner so they may make you your most comfortable for the session.

Where does Reiki energy come from?

A: Reiki energy is a subtle energy. It is different than electricity or chemical energy or other kinds of physical energy. Reiki energy comes from the Higher Power, which exists on a higher dimension than the physical world we are familiar with. When viewed clairvoyantly, Reiki energy appears to come down from above and to enter the top of the practitioners’ head after which it flows through the body and out the hands. It appears to flow this way because of our perspective. However, the true source of Reiki energy is within ourselves. This does not mean that we use our personal energy when we do Reiki, but that the energy is coming from a transcendental part of ourselves that is connected to an infinite supply of healing energy.

Is Reiki a Religion?

A: Although Reiki energy is spiritual in nature, Reiki is not a religion. Practitioners are not asked to change any religious or spiritual beliefs they may have. They are free to continue believing anything they choose and are encouraged to make their own decisions concerning the nature of their religious practices.

What does a Reiki treatment feel like?

A: What one experiences during a Reiki treatment varies somewhat from person to person. You may feel a very slight tingling, heat, or energy, or nothing at all. However, feelings of deep relaxation are usually felt by all. In addition, many feel a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and surrounds them. As the Reiki energy encourages one to let go of all tension, anxiety, fear or other negative feelings a state of peace and well-being is experienced. Some drift off to sleep or report floating outside their bodies or have visions and other mystical experiences. At the end of the treatment, one feels refreshed with a more positive, balanced outlook.

Does one have to stop seeing a regular doctor or psychologist in order to receive a Reiki treatment?

A: No. Reiki works in conjunction with regular medical or psychological treatment. If one has a medical or psychological condition, it is recommended that one see a licensed health care professional in addition to receiving Reiki treatments. Reiki energy works in harmony with all other forms of healing, including medication, surgery, psychological care or any other method of alternative care and will improve the results.

I have heard that Reiki can be sent to others at a distance. How does this work?

A: Yes, in Reiki II, you are given three Reiki symbols. These symbols are empowered by the Reiki II attunement. One of these symbols is for distant healing. By using a picture of the person you would like to send Reiki to or by writing the person’s name on a piece of paper or simply by thinking of the person and also activating the distant symbol, you can send Reiki to them no matter where they are. They could be hundreds of miles away, but it makes no difference. The Reiki energy will go to them and treat them. You can also send Reiki to crisis situations or world leaders and the Reiki energy will help them too.

Is Reiki safe for pregnant women?

Since Reiki is guided by the Higher Power, the Reiki energy will know the condition of the client or student and adjust appropriately. Reiki can only do good. Many pregnant women have received treatments with great benefit to them and their unborn child. It has also been used during child birth.

What about Reiki for babies?

A: Babies love Reiki. It is very healthy for them. Do not worry about it being too strong. Reiki automatically adjusts to what the baby needs.

Can you treat animals or plants with Reiki?

A: Animals love Reiki too. They seem to have a natural understanding of what Reiki is and its benefits. Once a pet has received a Reiki treatment, they will often let you know that they want more. Plants also respond well to Reiki.

Are there any side effects from a Reiki treatment?

A: Most of the time a person will feel relaxed and uplifted by a Reiki treatment. However, sometimes a person will have what is called a healing crisis. As a person’s vibration goes up, toxins that have been stored in the body will be released into the blood stream to be filtered by the liver and kidneys and removed from the system. When this happens, sometimes a person can get a headache or stomach ache or feel weak. If this happens, it is a good idea to drink more water, eat lighter meals and get more rest. The body is cleansing as part of the healing process so this is a good sign.

Can it be used to help groups of people or even global crises?

A: Yes, this is one of the wonderful benefits of Reiki and is why it is such a wonderful technique for the new millennium. It allows individuals and groups to do something positive about the challenging situations we see on the news involving so many people all over the planet. Reiki can be used to reduce suffering and help people anywhere in the world. As more and more people send Reiki to help the world heal, we will move quickly to a world of peace and harmony.

Am I clothed during my Reiki session?

A: Yes. Unlike a massage therapy session, you will be fully clothed. For a Reiki session, you will want to wear loose fitting comfortable clothing.

Will the Reiki Practitioner’s hands touch me in any way?

A: At your option. Reiki may be done with a light gentle pressure static touch or the Practitioner’s hands may be a few inches/centimeters above your body at the hand positions with no actual touch. There are standard hand placements beginning at your head or feet, avoiding all sensitive body parts. Let your Practitioner know prior to the session which you prefer, light touch or no touch.

Anything I should know for the first session?

A: At your first session you should plan to arrive 15-20 minutes early so the practitioner can go over the session, discuss your goals for the session, complete paperwork, etc.

Is one session enough or will I need a series of sessions?

A: One session is a great start! You will see for yourself how Reiki makes you feel, if it is relaxing, and if you feel more clarity after the session. Many people, after trying one session, go on to purchase a series of sessions to progressively work on their current wellness goals.

Is there talking during the session?

A: Usually a session is done without talking and the practitioner may have soft ambient music playing in the background to aid in your relaxation. If you want to communicate something to your practitioner during the session, such as if you are too cold or too warm, if you would like them to adjust the music, if you are feeling a sensation you would like to discuss, if something feels uncomfortable for you, or if you have a question or issue, then do speak up at any time during the session. Your practitioner wants the best for you and wants to make your session the best experience possible. Also, your practitioner may ask you after the session if there is anything you would like to share and you may do so at your option. This is good feedback for your practitioner’s notes for planning your next session.

Can I drive after my session?

A: Yes, after your session you will be in your full awake state, but possibly feel more grounded and centered. A five minute brisk walk to your car or other transportation will add to your groundedness. Be sure that you are fully awake and alert before driving in general.

After I leave my session, should I do anything special?

A: Please drink plenty of water to hydrate your body as your body’s energy system may be moving at a more optimum rate, so please care for yourself with water and healthy food during the day. It is beneficial to spend some quiet time that day or evening after your session to journal or to contemplate as you may have some insights and further mental clarity as your body continues to process the Reiki session.

If I have the flu or a contagious disease should I have a Reiki session?

A: No. As a kindness to your Practitioner please wait until you are feeling better and not contagious before scheduling a session.

Do I tip my Reiki Practitioner?

A: This is at the client’s discretion. If you felt you had a beneficial and caring session, then you may wish to show your gratitude.

Can you have too much Reiki?

A: No, Reiki is beneficial and works with your body’s energy. In fact, your own energetic body is in control of how much Reiki it wants and needs during the session and utilizes it accordingly. Like breathing, you will comfortably take in as much as you need to support you.