Reiki

Read on to learn more about Reiki and what to expect during a session.

History of Reiki

What is known as capital “R” Reiki refers to a Japanese spiritual system that includes hands-on healing. Mikao Usui developed the practice in the 1920s. Traditional Japanese Reiki practice is called "Usui Reiki Ryoho," which translates to "Usui’s method of reiki healing." Since the time of Mikao Usui, Reiki has spread globally and evolved through various teaching lineages.

My certification is in the Usui/Tibetan lineage of Reiki that came down through Iris Ishikuro and her student, Arthur Robertson. Both Iris and Arthur had connections to Tibetan Shamanism that they integrated into their practice of traditional Usui Reiki Ryoho. Robertson went on to call the Tibetan-influenced hands-on healing method "Raku Rei." Later on, William Lee Rand, a prominent Reiki master/teacher who learned both Usui Reiki Ryoho and Raku Rei, created a system of training that combines both. He called it Usui/Tibetan Reiki. My teacher, Deborah Dixon, received Reiki from various teachers, including Williams Rand, and passed the teachings on to me.

The history of Reiki was distorted, in part, by anti-Japanese sentiment in the United States during World War II. It’s only been in the last 30 years that reliable knowledge about Reiki’s origin became available in the West, and a lot of its history is still unknown.

For more information, you can start here.

What is reiki?

While there are many ways to practice Reiki, its essence can be found in the kanji for lowercase “r” reiki (霊気). Reiki can be translated to “spirit mind,” “life breath,” or “divine energy.” In other words, reiki is the universal life energy that is infinitely available to everyone! This energy is also called love, qi, God, source, etc. This energy is accessible to all beings, no matter their religion, spiritual leanings, or formal training in energy healing.

The hands-on practice of Reiki is a collaborative process between the reiki energy, the receiver, and the practitioner. With the help of specific techniques and intention, the practitioner makes their body a conduit for reiki energy and directs it to the receiver. Rather than "healing" their client, the practitioner simply creates a container for the receiver to open themselves to the healing power of reiki itself.

How does it work?

Reiki is mysterious and works beyond the paradigm of the rational human mind. Its mystery is part of why I love it. Ultimately, I experience Reiki as a practice that bears witness to the places and patterns in your body and energy body that are holding pain and suffering. Through this deep witnessing, you are invited to release that which no longer serves you.

On a spiritual level, Reiki can clarify your inner wisdom and surround you with a sense of loving wholeness. On a physiological level, Reiki can induce deep relaxation and activate a parasympathetic state, lowering cortisol levels in your system. It can take several sessions of Reiki to start to feel its impact.

What to expect for an In-Person Session?

During an in-person session, I will use a combination of hands-on and off methods. The touch is gentle and does not involve tissue manipulation. You are welcome to request an entirely touch-free session or to change your mind about touch at any time. You can expect to be lying down, fully clothed, on a massage table on your back, belly, or side. Alternatively you may be seated in a chair. It's best to wear cozy clothing that you can move around in. I have pillows, blankets, and a table warmer to ensure you are comfortable.

What to expect for a Distance Session?

During a distance session, I will do the same practice as in person, but without touch. Since reiki energy is universally available, physical distance does not impede it from being directed to you. Before the session begins, you could set up a space to comfortably lie or sit down. Pillows and blankets are encouraged! As are candles, incense, quiet music, or anything else that helps your nervous system settle. You are welcome to move around as needed. Some people enjoy making art or journalling during a session. You could also sit outside or take a walk. The reiki will reach you regardless of what you are doing, but I suggest finding a way to be present with the experience.

At the start of the session, we will have a brief phone call to check-in. I don't usually stay on the phone during the session unless requested. I will stop the session at the indicated time and let you know when I'm done. However, the reiki may continue flowing and you are welcome to stay in the receiving space for as long as you want. I'll be available to talk on the phone, voice message, or text afterward.

What does it feel like?

Reiki can be felt in many ways. Some people don’t feel a physical sensation. Others experience warmth, tingling waves, magnetic pressure, and colorful visuals. You may also fall asleep, have emotional changes, experience relevant thoughts, or notice your stomach being active. We all experience energy differently and there is no single way to feel during a Reiki session. The feeling of Reiki can also change from session to session, but typically clients feel relaxed and grounded after a session. I recommend going into a Reiki session with an open mind and without any pressure on yourself.