Reiki
What is it?
Reiki is a Japanese word pronounced Ray - Key, meaning 'Universal. Life Giving Energy'.
Reiki is a healing treatment based on the principle that the practitioner can use their hands to channel energy to the recipient in order to activate and stimulate the recipient's own natural healing processes and help restore physical
and emotional well being.
Reiki is an holistic healing energy which means it works on the whole body, clearing, de-stressing and re balancing on a physical emotional, mental and spiritual level.
When we are well, energy flows through our bodies like an electric current. Whenever there is a blockage or imbalance the flow is interrupted creating the potential for illness or injury.
Left untreated, some areas can become depleted in energy and others overworked. Each is detrimental to long term health and well being. Reiki balances and harmonises the recipient's energy field and energy centres (otherwise known as 'Chakras') and encourages the body to self heal.
Animals are often instinctively drawn to Reiki and can also benefit from it.
How might it help me?
Reiki can help boost and restore our own natural healing energy. It can help bring the body back into balance, help relieve pain and aid relaxation. There are very few contraindications to the treatment and it is suitable for all ages from new borns up. Reiki can be helpful at all stages of life and is generally very comforting.
Reiki can bring a sense of peace, a feeling of being more centred and an ability to cope better with the challenges life may bring.
Over the past 20 years of working with healing energies, I have developed intuitive skills that I use to help people when appropriate, and generally trust that whatever I pick up on intuitively during a Reiki treatment is what that person needs in order for them to feel better in mind, body and spirit.
This can come in the form of being able to explain why certain things have happened in life, connecting with spirit guides and passing on their advice, or connecting with loved ones who have died and passing on messages from them. Sometimes I am able to get glimpses of positive things that may happen in the future and I am always delighted when my clients tell me that these have proved true!
These are all things that can help with the healing process and although not guaranteed in every session, may come through for my clients if this is what is needed to aid or complete their healing.
Where does it come from?
Reiki originates from Japan and the teachings of Dr Mikao Usui who first channelled this healing energy in the early 20th century. There are now many different variations of Reiki, but it comes from a tradition of creating balance and harmony through the transmission of unconditional love and is open to anyone regardless of their belief system.
I have trained in a number of Reiki healing modalities in order to increase my ability to help my clients.
Will it hurt?
No. Reiki can do no harm.
Can I have it if I am pregnant?
Yes, it can be very helpful during pregnancy and can benefit both mother and baby.
Do I need to undress?
You do not need to undress for Reiki, but wearing comfortable clothing is a good idea.
What happens during a treatment?
After an initial consultation , you will be asked to sign a consent form. An explanation of the treatment will be given and you will have the opportunity to ask any questions you might have.
You will be invited to lie down on a comfortable bed or sit in a comfortable chair according to your preference.
You will be asked to turn over half way through the treatment unless you prefer not to or have opted for a seated treatment.
Gentle background music may be played to help aid relaxation.
The practitioner will place their hands gently on you, usually starting at the head and then working down the body to the feet, gradually balancing the energy flow in the body and releasing any blockages.
If you prefer not to be touched, a hands off treatment can be given where the practitioner channels the energy to you through their hands without actually touching you. This is also how intimate areas are treated.
Some people feel the Reiki energy flowing into them as a sensation of heat, others may feel a cold or pleasant tingling sensation. Sometimes shivering or twitching may occur as blockages are released and sometimes there can be an emotional release. This is all perfectly normal and just means that the treatment is working. A lot of people fall asleep or drift off into deep relaxation during a Reiki session.
How long does it take?
A Reiki session usually lasts for around an hour, but for maximum benefit please allow up to 90 minutes for your appointment.
What happens afterwards?
Reiki is a deeply relaxing treatment so you should feel calm, relaxed and peaceful afterwards.
It is advisable to drink plenty of water after the treatment and allow yourself to take it easy if you can.
People generally feel calm, energised and better able to cope with life following a Reiki treatment.
Some people find it can take a day or two for the body to process the treatment and may feel a little weary, out of sorts or find that old emotional issues surface to be released and healed. It is a good idea to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours after the treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
You may find that a single Reiki treatment is all you need to help you feel better.
Reiki can be given as often or as little as required. For example in cases of terminal illness or periods of high stress Reiki could be given every day to help ease pain and provide comfort and relaxation.
If you are seeking help with a particular ailment or condition, a course of 3 - 4 treatments would probably be beneficial.
I will suggest a treatment plan for you and adjust this as necessary, according to your response to the treatment.
Can I have other treatments at the same time?
Yes, Reiki can be given alongside other treatments such as Massage and Reflexology and can help enhance their effects.