What is Reiki?

It’s a complementary therapy which has been taught in the West since the 1970s. It was 'rediscovered' in Japan over a hundred years ago, though is thought to be a much older and long forgotten technique, originating in ancient times.  Simply put, Reiki is energy, and a Reiki Practitioner is someone who has been taught by a Reiki Master to channel this energy, which is constantly flowing all around us.

Being a Reiki Practitioner is a bit like being tuned in to a radio. We all have the capability to use Reiki to heal - but somewhere along the line, we’ve lost the knack - we are no longer ‘tuned in’.  Reiki Masters tune their students back into Reiki energy, teach them how to channel it and train them in techniques for amplifying its effect.

Reiki is not intended as a 'cure all'. It’s a complementary therapy and doesn’t replace conventional medicine.  It will help to restore balance and support the body's natural ability to heal itself.

Where does it come from?

It’s everywhere.  You can’t see it - in the same way that you can’t see radio waves, or magnetic fields - but it’s there.  In acupuncture and Chinese medicine you’ll sometimes hear it called 'Chi'.  Anyone who has had a Shiatsu massage, been to a Tai Chi class or practiced Qi Gong will be aware of Chi too. In India, the same energy is referred to as 'Prana'.

Is it for me?

Probably!  Reiki treats and prevents disease by allowing the flow of energy to all areas where there have been blockages - bringing balance, harmony and strength. It’s fantastic for athletes – before an event it can get you energized and afterwards it’s a superb way to reduce the swelling and speed the healing of any sports injury. 

If you have a sports injury and want to be back at your best in half the usual time, the drug-free, natural way - Reiki is the way to go.  It can give an energy boost to Chronic Fatigue sufferers or help relieve the pain of arthritis and rheumatic aches. Cuts, burns, sprains and broken bones have been known to recover twice as fast with Reiki.  Its calming, soothing, relaxing effects make it perfect for anyone trying to cope with stressful situations and the revitalizing and balancing effects of Reiki help people with depression.

What happens during a treatment?

Firstly, don’t worry - Reiki is a totally non-invasive treatment. You won’t have to take your clothes off, there are no side effects and it’s totally safe to have a Reiki treatment alongside any other medication or treatment you are having.  Don’t stop your usual medication.

You will be asked lie comfortably, on a couch and to relax (though it is possible to receive the treatment in a seated position).  It’s best if you close your eyes.  It’s quite common to have scented oils in the room and for gentle music to be playing.  If any of this makes you feel uncomfortable, just ask the Practitioner to change it.

What does the Practitioner do?

They will place their hands lightly in positions on your body, usually starting with your head and working down your body. Sometimes the Practitioner will work with their hands above your body, especially in any 'awkward' places that people might dislike being touched. The practitioner doesn’t usually speak, but if you have any questions or feel that you want to talk during the treatment, it’s up to you.

How does it feel?

It varies from person to person.  You will probably find that above all, you feel deeply relaxed and it’s perfectly fine if you find yourself drifting off to sleep. Some people feel unusual sensations such as heat, cold, tingling, or pulsing. You could feel as though you are floating or gently rocking and you might 'see' colours or feel emotional.  All these things are totally normal and have been witnessed many times by the Practitioner.  After the end of a session it’s best to drink lots of water which helps the body detoxify.

One or two treatments will help you if you’re feeling stressed or just need to relax.

The following conditions will typically require three or four treatments and the exact number will be agreed between you and your Practitioner.

• Depression
• Sports injury/pain
• Immune system boosting
• Arthritis

Reiki can help ease nausea and promote relaxation during chemotherapy and works really well on hormonal and emotional conditions too, as the healing energy balances the endocrine system.

Sue Steed is a Reiki Master Practitioner/Teacher with over 10 years of practical, hands on experience.  Reiki is an amazing, revitalizing, profoundly relaxing experience and cannot be recommended too highly.