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Frequently Asked Questions

Since 2013, I have met thousands of people curious about Reiki. Each conversation has deepened my understanding of Reiki from different perspectives. Below are some of the most common questions and concerns. If you have any other questions, please email me, I would love to hear from you and try my best to answer!

What is Reiki?

Reiki is both: a spiritual practice and a holistic technique that originated in Japan about 200 years ago. It has since been used by people all over the world to support health and recovery. In recent years, it has proved to be a highly effective non-pharmacological means to reduce stress and anxiety. 

How does Reiki work?

Reiki induces a state of deep relaxation similar to deep sleep. This relaxation allows the body’s natural healing mechanisms to activate, helping to restore the mind-body axis to its optimal functional state.

Who can benefit from Reiki?

Anyone looking to:

 

  • Overcome stress and anxiety

  • Improve sleep

  • Increase mental clarity (especially students and athletes)

  • Support recovery and rehabilitation

  • Manage complex and chronic health conditions

  • Process past trauma

  • Prevent burnout

What is a Reiki Session Like?

Reiki sessions are unique to each person, but every session brings a sense of relaxation. Here’s what to expect:

 

    •    You will remain fully clothed and can choose to sit or lie down in a comfortable position.

    •    The session may involve gentle hands-on touch or hands-off, where the practitioner’s hands hover slightly above your body.

    •    You may experience sensations such as warmth, coolness, tingling, or gentle pressure—or feel nothing at all. All responses are normal.

    •    You might fall asleep or enter a dream-like, relaxed state.

    •    You may have a much needed conversation during their session (your privacy is fully protected).

    •    Emotional releases, such as tears, can happen and are perfectly normal.

    •    It’s normal to snore or to stay awake!

    •    Your parasympathetic system may activate, causing gentle digestive sounds (borborygmi).

    •    The practitioner will NEVER place their hands on private areas.

How long does a Reiki session last?

​​A Reiki session can be as short as a few minutes (common in hospital settings) or as long as 90 minutes. Most people find an hour-long session ideal for achieving deep relaxation and allowing time for discussion.

How often should I take Reiki sessions?

This depends on your personal needs and goals. Some people benefit from a short series of weekly sessions, while others may prefer bi-weekly or monthly sessions over a longer period. You can discuss a plan that works best for you with your practitioner.

How can I prepare to make the most of my session?

Reiki works effectively without much preparation. To enjoy your Reiki experience to the fullest, you can try the following:

  • wear non-restrictive clothing

  • silence your phone/watch

  • address questions and concerns beforehand

  • use the restroom before the session

All that said, Reiki works very well even through interruptions. So don't over think!​

Is Reiki a religion?

Reiki is NOT a religion, or a sect, or a cult. For someone who is religious, a Reiki session can certainly enhance their religious experience. But Reiki itself is not a religion and does not advocate or condone any particular religion.  It is simply a practice that can work with harmony in different situations, and works equally well for people from all religious and socio-cultural backgrounds.

Can Reiki be combined with other treatments?

Yes, Reiki complements other treatments, such as medical care, psychotherapy, and physical therapy, enhancing overall healing and well-being. In fact, many hospitals across the nation are currently inviting Reiki into the hospital to help their patients benefit from the combined effect of medical and holistic treatments.

Can children or pets receive Reiki?

Yes, Reiki is safe and beneficial for children and pets. It can help them relax, reduce anxiety, and promote overall well-being. 

Are there any disadvantages of Reiki?

Just like most things, the benefits and disadvantages lie in how Reiki is being used. For example, prescription medicines are nothing short of miracles: purified active chemicals that can save lives and improve the quality of life. But when overused, or used as a blanket solution for something that calls for more than a pill, they end up getting in the way of health. In the same sense, if Reiki (or any spiritual practice) becomes an escape from facing the challenges of life, or becomes food for the 'spiritual ego', it can too get in the way of physical, mental and spiritual health. I would go on to extrapolate this concept to the emerging use of AI as well. The mindset underlying the use determines the good and the bad in everything. 

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