Reiki (ray-key) is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. A warm and soothing energy flows from the practitioner's hands into the client, promoting relaxation and releasing tension.
This non-invasive technique has been practiced all over the world and was introduced to the United States in 1938. The word Reiki is represented by two Japanese kanji (characters or letters). Rei, or "universal", combines with Ki, or "life energy". This energy is the energy that circulates through all living matter, as opposed to the physical energy our grandchildren possess and love to put to good use!
Many things can affect the energetic levels in our lives. Stress from personal or life struggles can deplete energy. Illness, both acute and chronic, can also deplete energy. Reiki can help to re-energize not only the body but also the mind and spirit. It has been used in hospitals to help cancer patients receiving chemotherapy treatments, to enhance pain relief, and to provide a general feeling of relaxation and well being. Reiki treatment sessions are often used for:
- Pain managemet or reduction
- Faster recovery from injuries
- Stress relief and relaxation
- Improving sleep
- Aids relaxation & comfort during pregnancy
- Reducing anxiety
- Deepening spiritual connection and inner peace
- Enhancing a sense of Calm and Balance
- Creating/enhancing a sense of serenity
- Supporting the recovery process following surgery
- Strengthening the immune system
- Easing symptoms of dis-ease
- Providing comfort during the transition process
Reiki helps us to help ourselves to heal. It causes no harm. The degree of improvement one can attain varies with each client. Reiki can increase and enhance Spirituality, Serenity, Meditation, Creativity, and Intuition. Sessions can be in person or using Distance Healing.
What are Reiki treatments?
Reiki treatments are based on the understanding that the body is powered by energy through energy centers. Treatments help to balance energy across these centers. When energy is low or unbalanced, health can be compromised. This understanding is fundamental within Acupuncture, Qi Gong, Yoga, Eastern Meditation, Chakra Balancing, Pranayama, and many other natural health approaches.
In order to balance the energy centers the Reiki practitioner acts as a conduit or "channel" to guide the universal energy to the client's body. It is, however, the client's energy that moves and works to heal itself. Reiki energy guides itself to wherever the body is most in need of energy.
During a treatment the client remains fully clothed. After a brief health history is taken from the client and Reiki hand positions are explained, the client reclines on a Reiki/massage table or comfortable chair. There is soft background music. Aromatherapy may be used. Pillows and blankets are available if needed. The practitioner uses his/her hands to guide the energy throughout the treatment. Hands are placed on the body, though if the client prefers, Reiki can also be given with the practitioners hands placed above the body.
Often clients will fall into a deep Reiki sleep, which is perfectly normal and wonderfully refreshing. After the treatment, which lasts approximately one hour, the client is given an instruction sheet on self-care after Reiki and a chance to ask questions or express any concerns.
