Reiki
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a Japanese word meaning universal life energy, which we are all born with. The system of Reiki is a healing art that uses this energy channelling it through practitioner’s hands directly into the patient’s body. The touch of hands is increasingly recognised as being important and also absent in western medicine, it is one of the most natural experiences (think about mothers comforting babies or indeed you laying your hands on your own body when you are experiencing pain or discomfort). Reiki is an alternative and complimentary therapy that can make a difference to someone in physical or emotional pain. It is important to understand that everyone’s body and mind is different and therefore the experience with Reiki is very varied also – the best way to enjoy and benefit from it is to try and keep the expectations on what Reiki can, should and will feel like to a minimum. If you are experiencing pains and discomfort in your body we recommend a number of Reiki sessions within a reasonably short period of time, if however you are looking to relax, unwind and take some ‘me’ time just a one-off would be a good start. It is also very important to know that
REIKI PRACTITIONER IS NOT A HEALER, REIKI ITSELF IS
What to prepare and expect from a Reiki session
Reiki can be performed anywhere and on any person willing to receive its benefits, however certain things will make the experience more pleasant and effective
- Choose the appropriate space – a room in your house you are comfortable in and could relax in a lying down (recommended) or sitting position. Reiki practitioner should be able to move around you and place hands on or near your body, so edge of the bed, massage or even a sturdy dining table with a mattress would do great
- Keep distractions to a minimum – make sure the environment is quiet, warm enough and you won’t be disturbed
- Consider your clothing – be sure that you are comfortable and we also advise to remove jewellery and hair ties
- Let Reiki practitioner know if you’d like any incenses or essential oils or crystals used during a session (don’t worry it won’t affect the results if you don’t)
- Be calm, present and connected – it is totally fine (and a little bit expected!) to fall asleep during Reiki sessions, but when you are awake try staying connected to your breath and be mentally present in the room and silent if possible
- Allow yourself time after the session – in my experience most patients feel very relaxed after receiving Reiki so maybe some quiet time straight afterwards is a good idea
- Make sure you drink plenty of water, wash your hands and if possible take a shower after Reiki session – the activated flow of energy might make you thirsty and hot
Benefits of Reiki
There are many amazing benefits to Reiki, it is a simple yet effective process that usually brings noticeable effects to the person receiving the treatment.
Here are just a few reasons you might consider Reiki:
- Helping with energy levels and stress management
- Enhancing body’s natural ability to heal and promote overall wellness
- Creating deep relaxation and releasing mental and physical tension
- Assisting in pain relief and recovery processes
- Complimenting medical treatments
- Improving mental concentration and focus
- Improving quality of sleep
Whatever your reasons for choosing Reiki, it is important to know YOU CAN NOT DO ANYTHING WRONG WITH REIKI
Reiki is…
- Gentle: the touch is soft and light, with the option of keeping the hands a little away from the body
- Harmless: Reiki can have only positive results
- Natural: no equipment or tools are being used
- Balancing: Reiki will balance your energy levels
- Relaxing: one of the reasons to try Reiki would be to experience the feel of deep relaxation
- Energising: if you are feeling drained Reiki will revive you
Important things to know about Reiki
- Reiki is not a substitute for therapy, medical treatment or counselling
- Reiki practitioner will always obtain permission before treating anyone, so it can’t be forced
- Reiki practitioner can’t promise a healing or cure and will never attempt to diagnose and give medical advice
- Reiki practitioners follow strict confidentiality rules and will never share the experience of a Reiki session with anyone rather than the patient themselves