An Introduction to Reiki: What is it and How Might it Help You?

Reiki is a Japanese modality of energetic healing that can be likened to the concept of “laying of the hands.” Rei, in Japanese, means “the higher power” or “universal,” and Ki means “life force energy.”[1,2] Mikao Usui founded the traditional system of Reiki about 100 years ago, drawing from ancient knowledge [1]. The modern teachings are passed on in a lineage, and about 30 other types of Reiki have emerged over the last century, creating new branches of lineages from teacher to student [1].

In terms of Eastern medicine, Reiki works in a way that is similar to an acupuncture or acupressure massage: the concept that Ki/Qi/Chi can become stagnant persists in this healing modality. When qi is not released properly, it can leave debris, or if not released at all it can create blockages [1]. Blocks typically occur in areas of the physical (or, etheric) body that correlate to a repressed emotion. Colloquialisms can often clue us in to what body part corresponds with what trapped emotion or situation. For example – we “shoulder” burdens, we “digest” ideas, our “nose” knows, etc. 

So, how do you know if your energy is blocked? Many people will book an appointment and can only verbalize that they feel “off.” Some clients come in with a basic awareness of their chakras (which are always balanced and aligned as part of a Reiki session) and sense certain blockages in specific chakras. When qi is not released properly around the throat chakra because someone is not speaking their truth, they may have been experiencing the feeling of a lump in their throat when talking about a particular subject, they may have prolonged tension in the shoulders, or they could have new neck pain. All of these symptoms have more detailed reasons for existing, but they are usually related to an unbalanced throat chakra, as it is also the closest chakra to these body parts. Because they are not speaking their truth, they may also not be standing in their power, which would also throw the solar plexus chakra out of balance. It is the job of the Reiki Master to call in the appropriate rei for the session, balance and align these chakras, and remove the blockages in any place they are showing up for the client.

Here’s how Reiki can help. To release what no longer serves us, we create a comfortable and relaxing environment. For the client, we replicate the same safety and stillness as a restorative night of sleep. The Reiki practitioner maintains their own energetic hygiene, the overall cleanliness of the session location, and their specific methodology of practice. Reiki practitioners vary in how they may specifically tailor sessions; some use crystals, many use their intuitive skills, a few use touch with essential oils, and several offer Reiki without the need for touch at all [2].

At Grounded Wellbeing, we prioritize a gender- and neuro- affirming space. The session will begin with a time for questions, concerns, and expectations. In accordance with our trauma informed policies, no touch will be used. Once the session starts, the Reiki rei of choice is called in through the use of symbols. Some people feel tingling, heat, or buzzing from the energy - some physically feel nothing at all. Occasionally, people have visualizations that correspond to chakras being balanced or emotional states being released. [2] The practitioner is often intuiting information about the session in varying amounts. This information can be quite profound to share with the client at the end of the session.

How will I feel after? Many people report feeling an over sense of relaxation and lightness after a session is complete. According to recent studies from Harvard and Yale, reiki sessions can offer the opportunity to rest and exit survival mode [3,4]. Reiki can be seen as a form of self-care, energetic maintenance, and a chance to have a facilitated connection with your Higher Self [5]. 

 Curious about reiki, have any questions, or looking to chat? Book a session with me!

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References 

[1] What is Reiki?

[2] What Is Reiki? Health Benefits, Caveats And More 

[3] Effects of Reiki on Autonomic Activity Early After Acute Coronary Syndrome 

[4] A Large-Scale Effectiveness Trial of Reiki for Physical and Psychological Health 

[5] How to Connect to Your Higher Self and Improve Your Life