What is Reiki?
A look inside how this energy healing technique can help improve your life.
By Lauren Merrill
Reiki (ray-key) is a japanese healing technique that has gained a lot of popularity in the field of Complementary Alternative Medicine. It is a gentle touch therapy that promotes deep relaxation within the client. Emphasis is often placed on understanding lifestyle, emotions, and thought-forms within a person, which have a profound effect on physical health.
Unseen Energy: everything is energy
“Everything is energy. Your thought begins it, your emotion amplifies it, and your action increases the momentum.”
Energy healing is not as complicated as it may seem.
Think about all the ways that energy has already impacted your life. There is electrical energy, thermal energy, light energy, chemical energy, etc. All of these are forces that change life as we know it, often unseen to the eye because they operate at such high speed and frequencies.
Our understanding of the human body and wellness is no different. Imagine if we could see the impact that a negative thought or emotion has on us- immediately, and over time. Likewise, imagine seeing how our energy changes when we are singing, eating our favorite meal, or laughing with friends and family. We can certainly feel the difference- and these joyful states of being are what we aspire to experience more often in our lives.
Reiki focuses on restoring the flow of energy throughout the body, which connects us to higher states of consciousness and accelerates the body’s own natural ability to heal itself.
The Importance of Intention and Self-Care
It is simple. The mere act of taking time to nurture ourselves already begins a process of self-healing and growth. In our often fast-paced and hectic lifestyle, it can be hard for many to find the time to relax or even know how to relax. Reiki can be a powerful tool to facilitate a healthier lifestyle.
Benefits
relieves symptoms of stress-related conditions (anxiety, depression, headaches, high blood pressure, PTSD, fibromyalgia)
pain management
improved sleep
increased concentration and productivity
boosted immune system
Since reiki is a complementary therapy, it is often used with other standard medical treatments for an enhanced effect.
What To Expect
Reiki sessions are done with a light, static touch of the reiki master's hands on or over the body. The client is usually seated or laying down and fully clothed; so it is best to wear something that is loose and comfortable.
The best way to prepare for a session is to drink water, enjoy a nutritious meal, and reflect on what you are looking to gain from the experience. Set aside time before and after so that you can enjoy yourself and not be rushed.
Choosing A Practitioner
A reiki master is the highest level of reiki practitioner, and has often received all of the attunements to teach reiki as well. They have completed all levels of training, whereas practitioners are often level 1 or 2. Both are qualified to give reiki, but it is most important to schedule a session with the person who feels right to you. All practitioners are different and have their own personalities and perspectives on healing.
Further Reading
Lauren has been a certified Reiki Master/ Teacher since 2013. She studied and obtained several certifications at the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts in Tempe, AZ where she was able to develop her passion of personal empowerment and mindful living. She believes that we are at our best when we feel excited and joyful about what life has to offer.