When I first discovered Reiki, I was drawn to its simplicity and how it works with the body’s natural healing ability. As a complementary therapist, I’m always looking for gentle, effective ways to support well-being, and Reiki fits beautifully into that approach.
But what exactly is Reiki? How does it work, and what benefits can it offer? In this blog, I’ll explain as best i can everything you need to know about Reiki, from its origins to the effects people commonly experience. Whether you’re brand new to Reiki or just curious, I hope this guide gives you a clearer idea on what Reiki is and what it can do !
What is Reiki?
Reiki (pronounced “ray-key”) is a form of energy healing that originated in Japan in the early 20th century. The word itself is made up of two Japanese characters:
- Rei – meaning “universal” or “spiritual wisdom”
- Ki – meaning “life force energy”
This concept of life energy exists in many traditions. In Chinese medicine, it’s known as Qi (or Chi), and in yoga, it’s referred to as Prana. The idea is that this energy flows through and around us, influencing our physical, mental, and emotional well-being,
Reiki was developed by Dr. Mikao Usui in the early 1900s. His method, known as the Usui Reiki System, is still widely practised today. Reiki is based on the idea that practitioners can channel healing energy through their hands, helping to restore balance and support the body’s natural healing process.
How Does Reiki Work?
One of the most common questions I get is, How does Reiki actually work? The truth is, while we don’t fully understand it from a scientific standpoint, research suggests Reiki has a measurable impact on stress, relaxation, and overall well-being.
Reiki practitioners believe that when our energy is low or blocked, it can lead to stress, fatigue, and illness. Reiki aims to restore the natural flow of energy, promoting a state of balance on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level.
A Reiki session is always very calming. It involves the me gently placing my hands on or just above different areas of the body. You remain fully clothed, and there is no pressure or manipulation—just a gentle, still presence. Many people describe a sensation of warmth, tingling, or deep relaxation during the session.
The Effects of Reiki
Reiki is considered a complementary therapy, meaning it works alongside conventional treatments rather than replacing them. Many people report feeling calmer, more balanced, and deeply rested after a session. Others experience emotional shifts, pain relief, or better sleep.
Physical Effects
Reiki isn’t a medical treatment, but it may help support the body in various ways. Reported physical effects include:
- Deep relaxation – Reiki often induces a profound sense of calm, which can help lower stress levels.
- Reduced muscle tension and pain – Some people find that Reiki helps ease headaches, chronic pain, and tension-related discomfort.
- Improved sleep – Many clients report sleeping better after a session.
- Enhanced healing – Some studies suggest Reiki may support the body’s natural healing process, particularly during recovery from illness or surgery.
Emotional and Mental Effects
Reiki is well known for its calming effect on the mind and emotions. It may help with:
- Reducing stress and anxiety – Reiki can have a balancing effect on the nervous system, helping to ease tension.
- Emotional release – Some people experience a release of stored emotions, which can be a gentle way to process grief, sadness, or past trauma.
- Mental clarity – A Reiki session can bring a sense of clarity and calm, helping to reduce feelings of overwhelm.
Spiritual Effects
For those who are open to it, Reiki can also be a deeply spiritual experience. Some describe feeling more connected to themselves or gaining a new perspective on life. It’s important to note that Reiki is not tied to any religion—it’s simply a practice of energy balancing that anyone can receive.
What Can Reiki Help With?
People seek Reiki for many reasons, including:
- Managing stress, anxiety, or burnout
- Coping with emotional challenges
- Supporting chronic pain conditions
- Improving sleep quality
- Enhancing relaxation and well-being
There is also growing interest in Reiki within healthcare settings. Some hospitals and almost all hospices offer Reiki alongside conventional treatments, particularly for cancer patients or those in palliative care. Studies suggest that Reiki can help reduce pain, anxiety, and fatigue in these settings.
The Science Behind Reiki
While Reiki is often considered an “alternative” therapy, research is beginning to explore its benefits. Some studies suggest it can have measurable effects on stress reduction and pain management.
For example:
- A 2010 study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that Reiki helped reduce anxiety and improve heart rate variability in patients recovering from a heart attack.
- A 2017 systematic review in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine suggested Reiki had positive effects on pain and anxiety.
- A 2003 study in Cancer Nursing found that Reiki sessions significantly reduced fatigue, pain, and stress in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.
While more research is needed, these findings suggest Reiki may have a valuable role in holistic health care.
What to Expect in a Reiki Session
If you’ve never had Reiki before, here’s what to expect
- Consultation – We begin with a short chat about how you’re feeling and any concerns you may have.
- The Reiki session – You’ll lie down (or sit) fully clothed while I place my hands lightly on or above different parts of your body.
- Relaxation – Many people drift into a meditative state or even fall asleep. Reiki is deeply calming and gentle.
- After the session – You may feel peaceful, refreshed, or even emotional. I always recommend drinking water and taking some time to reflect on the experience.
Is Reiki Safe?
Yes—Reiki is a non-invasive, gentle therapy. It doesn’t involve any physical manipulation, substances, or intrusive techniques. It can be used alongside conventional medical treatments without interfering with them. However, it’s essential to see Reiki as a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medical care.
My Experience with Reiki
Over the years, I’ve seen how Reiki can bring comfort, relaxation, and balance to people’s lives. While I don’t view it as a cure-all, I do believe it offers a gentle yet poweful way to support overall well-being.
Reiki is one of those therapies best understood through experience. If you’re curious, I encourage you to try a session and see how it feels. You might be surprised by how much lighter and calmer you feel afterwards.
Final Thoughts
Reiki is a gentle yet powerful therapy that can support well-being on multiple levels—physical, emotional, and spiritual. While it’s not a replacement for medical treatment, it can be a valuable complement to a holistic approach to health.
If you’re looking for a way to relax, restore balance, or explore energy healing, Reiki might be worth trying. And if you have any questions, feel free to contact me, I’d be happy to help.
For those of you who would like more detail and clinical information about the effects of Reiki , this book is excellent .
Reiki In Clinical Practice – A Science -based guide by Ann Baldwin PhD (Handspring Publishing Edinburgh)