What is Reiki
The healing method known in the West as Reiki was developed in Japan early in the last century by Mikao Usui (1865-1926) and all Usui Reiki masters and practitioners have a lineage which relates back to Usui. However the history and origins of Reiki can be traced back to Tibet thousands of years ago.
Reiki is made up of 2 words which translate into “universal life force energy”. It is a holistic, gentle, non-invasive energy technique which promotes physical and emotional healing and aids relaxation and stress relief through the healthy flow of energy through the body via gentle touch.
Is Reiki suitable for me?
Reiki has very few contraindications, which means nearly everyone can benefit from this gentle therapy. It works holistically on the mind, body and spirit and because of its minimal or light touch it is particularly suitable for those with physical, degenerative or life limiting conditions, where other more manual therapies may be unsuitable. It is a complementary therapy and not a substitute for medical treatment, but it can be used alongside conventional treatment to help manage pain, aid relaxtion, reduce stress and promote wellbeing.
Reiki is beneficial to all and everyone can benefit from its effects. Reiki may also be a good option to support the following symptoms or conditions:
- Stress or stress related illness
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Chronic pain
- Cancer
- Degenerative conditions such as Parkinsons, MS or Arthritis
How does Reiki work?
Reiki masters and practitioners are attuned to channel reiki energy to their clients. We use particular hand positions to work on the main chakras and other key areas of the body and the energy is delivered to where it is needed to balance the chakras and encourage good flow of energy (chi). There is no manual manipulation of muscles and it can even be delivered “hands off” or by distance, but it can also be combined with other therapies such as reflexology or massage, either at the start or end of the treatment.
What to expect at your first session
As with any therapy, at your first session, you will have already completed a consultation form on line, and I will then have a short consultation with you to go over anything that arises from this.
The treatment takes place lying down or semi-reclined on the massage couch and you remain fully clothed, only removing your shoes. It is important that you are comfortable and so blankets, pillows and bolsters are available as required.
You can choose between a 30 or 60 minute appointment and with a longer appointment length you can also include a guided relaxation at the start of the treatment which is particularly beneficial for those who struggle to switch off.
During the treatment you can feel free to drift off and you may even fall asleep. You may experience particular sensations as I work over different areas of the body. Possibly, temperature changes, tingling or buzzing, seeing colours, emotional sensations, or just a pleasant meditative state. Some people are naturally more in tune with their bodies, but whether you do or don’t experience any of these effects, or if you fall asleep, the Reiki will still be working! Reiki energy is subtle and if you don’t feel anything at the time, you may notice a shift over the next few days which could be physical, emotional or spiritually.
How frequently should I have Reiki?
As with most complementary therapies, there will be a benefit from a one-off treatment, but regular treatments will be more optimal. I would recommend no more frequently than weekly initially and for a regular treatment, monthly (or whatever best suits you) is generally a good balance.
Combination Treatments
You may like to combine Reiki with another therapy. This is an ideal option if you want to experience Reiki for the first time as a taster treatment, and it is well-suited alongside either reflexology or facial treatments. It is also safe during pregnancy.
The Reiki can take place at the start or end of your treatment as preferred. See my combination therapies page for the various suggested options and feel free to get in touch to discuss further options.
Distance Reiki
Reiki can be sent across space and time and so it is therefore possible to send healing remotely to anyone, anywhere at any time and it can be just as effective as in person Reiki. It is particularly suited if distance is an issue, you are unable (or it is inconvenient) to leave your home or travel, or you just want to receive Reiki in the comfort of your own home.
Just as with an in-person appointment, we arrange a suitable time for you to receive the Reiki. It is a good idea to schedule it for a time where you can be somewhere quiet and relaxed to receive it, preferably where you can lie down or sit comfortably and where you won’t be disturbed. I carry out the Reiki from my therapy room as it is a calm and relaxed environment and is set up optimally for me to send healing. I will let you know just before that I will be commencing the treatment.
During the treatment you may feel the same sensations or feelings that you would during an in person session. Afterwards, I will contact you, either by phone or message (whatever is your preference) to follow up on the session.
