Reiki is an ancient Japanese method of promoting the healing illness and reducing stress through touch or, often enough, hand positions that stop short of touching. The word Reiki comes from two Japanese words, Rei, meaning higher power, and Ki, meaning life energy. Loosely translated, Reiki means universal guided life-force energy. Across many cultures this Universal Life Force Energy is acknowledged, in China it is referred to as Chi (Qi), Prana in India, Mana in Polynesia, Ruach in Hebrew, Barraka in Islamic countries

Reiki is based on the assumption that unseen energy, Ki, flows through all living things along pathways in the body called "meridians" or "chakras".  When the flow of Ki is blocked or disrupted by negative thoughts or energy, serious health and emotional problems can result. Reiki has it's own intelligence and flows to all levels to clear blockage and restore balance: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual.  A Reiki practitioner channels energy by gently putting her hands on or near the body in several specific positions. These positions mirror the pathways that carry the Ki energy to major organs. The flow of positive Reiki energy channeled through the practitioner to the patient is thought to heal ailments by correcting imbalances and restoring the healthy dynamics of the person's life force.    

A typical Reiki session lasts from 30 to 90 minutes (my sessions are normally scheduled for 45 minutes). The practitioner begins by placing her hands in several basic positions that cover your head, shoulders, stomach, and optionally your back. The healer holds each position from two to five minutes (or longer) and then may target the specific areas of the body where you are experiencing pain or discomfort. While performing these positions, the healer may not actually touch you, but may simply hold her hands an inch or two above your body.

Reiki is usually done while you lie down on a table with your practitioner standing. After a Reiki session, some people describe experiencing a glowing or radiance, as well as feelings of peace and well-being. Others feel nothing at all, while still others experience an intense emotional release. At the very least, expect to feel extremely relaxed; you may even fall asleep.

People have used Reiki to help treat everything from impotence to heart disease, although there are relatively few scientific studies of its effectiveness. Reiki is not meant to be used in lieu of traditional medical care; its practioners promote it as a helpful alternative for controlling side effects of other treatments, reducing pain, and speeding the healing process. In one small study, Canadian researchers at the Cross Cancer Institute recruited people experiencing pain from various conditions, including cancer, to test whether Reiki was effective as a complement to traditional drug treatment for managing pain. The patients' pain was assessed immediately before and after a Reiki session, and a "highly significant reduction in pain" was registered after the treatment.

Reiki can also be used preventively to reduce stress and tension. Some people include regular Reiki sessions as part of their overall wellness regimen.

Yes. Reiki is a gentle and noninvasive technique, and practioners use a light touch (if any) in all hand positions.

Are there side effects?

A Reiki treatment induces a more relaxed state of body and mind. However, sometimes a person may have mild side effects. As Reiki increases a person’s vibration and clears blockages, toxins that have been stored in the body will be released.  Some may experience a mild headache or stomach ache. Drinking more water, eating lighter meals and getting more rest is recommended. The body is cleansing as part of the healing process so this is a good sign.