What is Reiki?
Reiki is a form of energy healing that originated in Japan in the early 20th century. The word "Reiki" comes from two Japanese words: rei (meaning "universal") and ki (meaning "life energy" or "vital energy"). ​When this energy is flowing freely and balanced, the body and mind are in harmony. However, when this energy becomes blocked or unbalanced, it can lead to physical or emotional problems.
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​How Does It Work?
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Energy Flow: The idea is that energy flows through the practitioner to the recipient. The practitioner isn’t the source of the energy; they’re simply the conduit through which it passes.
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Hand Positions: The practitioner uses various hand positions, either placing them directly on the body or hovering just above it. Each position corresponds to different parts of the body or energy centers (often referred to as chakras). The goal is to channel energy to areas that need it, whether it's to calm a stressed mind or help to relieve physical discomfort
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Benefits of Reiki
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Stress Reduction and Relaxation: One of the most common benefits reported by people who receive Reiki is a profound sense of relaxation, which can reduce anxiety and stress.
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Pain Relief: Many people use Reiki to help manage chronic pain, as it’s believed to promote energy flow and reduce pain sensitivity.
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Emotional Healing: Reiki is often used to help with emotional issues like grief, trauma, or depression. It’s thought to help release blocked emotional energy.
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Better Sleep: Since Reiki promotes relaxation, some people find that it helps them sleep better after a session.
Improved Overall Well-Being: Reiki may help with energy imbalances in the body, improve mood, and enhance a sense of peace and clarity.
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What Does Reiki Feel Like?
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People receiving Reiki often describe the experience as deeply relaxing. Common sensations that recipients may experience during or after a session include, but are not limited to:
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Warmth or tingling: This is often felt in areas where the practitioner’s hands are placed. It may feel like a soothing heat or a gentle, pleasant sensation.​
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Deep calm: Many people fall into a very relaxed or meditative state. Some even fall asleep during the session.
Emotional release: It’s not uncommon for people to experience a release of emotions during or after a Reiki session—sometimes they may feel a sense of relief or clarity about something that’s been weighing on them.
A sense of lightness: Many report feeling lighter, less burdened, or more at peace after a session.
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Disclaimer
It’s important to note that Reiki is often used as a complementary therapy rather than a replacement for conventional medicine. It’s not a cure for diseases like cancer or chronic conditions, but it can help alleviate symptoms (like pain or nausea) and improve overall well-being. Reiki can work alongside medical treatments to help with stress reduction, emotional healing, and improving a person’s mental outlook during recovery.