Reiki: Japanese technique for stress reduction & relaxation

Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress management and relaxation that also promotes healing. Reiki is administered by “laying on hands” and is based on the idea that an unseen “life force energy” flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one’s “life force energy” is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy. (taken from the International Center for Reiki Training website, http://www.icrt.org) 

By reducing stress, Reiki will improve your health, making it less likely that you’ll get sick. It can also promote the healing process and works well for simple things like headaches, stomachaches, sprained ankles, bee stings and so forth, but can also work alongside regular medical care for more serious illnesses or conditions such as heart disease, cancer and serious injury. Reiki has been known to reduce the negative effects of medical treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation, thus making it easier to follow through with prescribed medical treatment. (taken from the International Center for Reiki Training website, http://www.icrt.org) 

I’ve personally enjoyed expanding my Reiki practice beyond my physical body’s ailments to treat my psychological traumas and enhance my mind-body connection. I’ve used Reiki to send loving energy to my childhood and military-related traumas, send peace to difficult people or relationships, manifest and reach my goals and change habits. Reiki is not restricted by time or space, so it can be sent to any situation, person, or being, past, present or future. 

Everyone is unique, every body is unique. Most clients say Reiki energy has a warm, peaceful feeling. Some say it is the most relaxed they have felt all day. You will start by laying on your back, closing your eyes and taking some deep breaths as I guide you through a brief meditation. You may get so relaxed that you take a nap – that’s perfectly ok! The energy will still go where it needs to go and do what it needs to do.  

Reiki is done by lightly placing hands in specific positions on or near the body*. Reiki energy flows through the practitioner’s hands. I typically start my sessions at your head and end at your feet. Along the way, I focus the energy on your chakras, major organs, and any areas of concern we have discussed.*Before each session, I will always ask if you prefer hands-on or hands-off treatment and ask for your permission to begin.  

Reiki treatments are fully-clothed treatments, so wear whatever makes you feel the most comfortable! Many of my clients wear jeans, sweatpants or leggings with a comfortable shirt. While not necessary, most clients find it is more comfortable to take their shoes off for the session.  

 Even before COVID-19 changed our way of life, Reiki II classes taught how to give treatment over long distances using the distance symbol with impressive results. The symbol helps direct the Reiki to the intended recipient. I will sometimes use a picture of the person as a guide, but it can be as simple as thinking of the person. I offer Distance Reiki sessions over the phone or a Zoom call. If you need other arrangements, please reach out and I will do my best to accommodate your needs.