What is Reiki?

Reiki is a gentle yet powerful method of healing. The word Reiki comes from the Japanese word (Rei) which means “Universal Life” and (Ki) which means “Energy”. Reiki is the life energy that flows through all living things.

In Eastern medicine, it is believed that a person’s “ki” or energy should be strong, vital and free flowing. When we tap into our true essence through the vehicle of Reiki, we can recognise where our energy ebbs and flows more readily, and through this awareness a person’s body and mind can enjoy a more balanced state of health.

What is a Reiki session like?

A Reiki session can help ease tension and stress, assist you through difficult times in your life, and can help support the body to facilitate an environment for healing on all levels – physical, mental, spiritual and emotional.

A Reiki session can be likened to a hands-on meditation experience, and its practice allows us to better tap into our own innate healing energy and use it to strengthen the energy in ourselves and others. The practitioner typically follows specific hand positions that correspond to different areas of the body, including the head, neck, shoulders, chest, abdomen, limbs, and feet. The hands are generally held in each position for a few minutes before moving to the next.

The purpose of the hands-on contact is to facilitate the energetic connection and support the flow of healing energy to the recipient. It can also provide a sense of comfort and grounding during the session. However, every Reiki practitioner may have their own approach and may adapt the technique to the recipient's needs and preferences.

During a Reiki session, recipients may experience sensations such as warmth, tingling, or deep relaxation. Some people report feeling a sense of emotional release or a shift in their energy.

Reiki is considered a complementary therapy and is often used alongside conventional medical treatments to support the body's healing process. Sessions usually last approximately 75 minutes, including time beforehand and afterwards to discuss your needs, and debrief on your experience.

Is Reiki a form of meditation?

Reiki and meditation share some similarities in terms of their effects and the state of mind they aim to cultivate, such as:

1. Relaxation and Stress Reduction: Both Reiki and meditation practices promote relaxation and help reduce stress. They encourage individuals to slow down, let go of distractions, and cultivate a calm and peaceful state of mind.

2. Focus on the Present Moment: Both Reiki and meditation encourage individuals to be fully present in the current moment. They aim to shift attention away from past or future concerns and promote mindfulness and awareness of the present experience.

3. Energetic Flow and Balance: Reiki involves the channeling of energy, while certain meditation practices also focus on cultivating and balancing energy within the body. Both modalities aim to enhance the flow of vital energy and restore balance to the mind, body, and spirit.

4. Self-Healing and Inner Exploration: Reiki and meditation can facilitate self-healing and inner exploration. They encourage individuals to connect with their inner selves, tap into their own innate healing abilities, and explore their thoughts, emotions, and energetic states.

5. Holistic Well-being: Both Reiki and meditation emphasize the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. They seek to promote holistic well-being by addressing not only physical symptoms but also emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of an individual's health.

   
   

While there are similarities between Reiki and meditation, it's important to note that they are distinct practices with different techniques and approaches. Reiki involves the use of hands-on or hands-off healing techniques, while meditation typically involves focusing attention, using specific techniques such as breath awareness or mantra repetition. Ultimately, both practices can be valuable tools for self-care, relaxation, and personal growth.