What Is Reiki?

Reiki is a form of Japanese energy healing. “Rei” means Universal Spirit, and “ki” means life energy. Reiki is not a religion, nor is it affiliated with any religion. It was discovered by Mikao Usui in March 1922. Usui spoke many languages and received his primary education in a Tendai Buddhist monastery. He also earned a doctorate in literature and was well versed in medicine, theology, and science.

Reiki is administered using the “laying on of hands,” a technique practiced for thousands of years. You do not need to believe in Reiki; simply be open to receiving. Reiki is a method of stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is based on the idea that all living things have a special energy flowing through them called life energy.

When your life energy is high, you feel strong, confident, relaxed, and centered, and you’re less likely to get sick. When it is low, you may feel tired, stressed, or less resistant to illness. The American Institute of Stress estimates that 75–90% of all doctor visits are related to stress.

Reiki is offered in over 800 hospitals across the U.S., including operating rooms and intensive care units. The effects of unreleased stress range from minor aches to major health concerns such as heart disease, digestive disorders, and respiratory and skin problems. A study out of Hartford Hospital found that Reiki improved sleep by 86%, reduced pain by 78%, reduced nausea by 80%, and reduced anxiety during pregnancy by 94%.

What Are the Benefits of Reiki

• Feeling deep relaxation and calm

• Quieting of the mind

• Reduced symptoms of stress and tension

• Improved quality of sleep

• Deepened connection to self

• Opening of energy centres (chakras), meridians, and nadis (energy

channels)

• Supportive when used with counselling, therapy, and somatic practices

• Increased energy

What Happens During a Reiki Session

During the Reiki session, clients lie comfortably on a massage bed or a mat on the floor. Pillows and blankets are provided for additional comfort. The practitioner’s hands are placed along energy centres and pathways on the head, neck, chest, abdomen, legs, feet, arms, and hands. Throughout the session, the practitioner remains in a meditative, heart‑centered, relaxed, and present state.

• Welcome, introduction, and intention setting (5–15 minutes)

• Grounding with gentle breathing and meditation (5–10 minutes)

• Hands-on or hands‑above‑the‑body treatment, starting at the head (40–50

minutes)

• Integration and rest (0–5 minutes)

• Closing, reflection, and debrief (5–10 minutes)

Reiki invites us to slow down, reconnect, and remember that healing is not something we chase; it is something we allow. In a world that often pulls us in every direction, Reiki offers a gentle return to balance, helping us release what we no longer need and make space for clarity, calm, and renewed energy. Whether you are seeking relaxation, emotional support, or a deeper connection with yourself, Reiki provides a nurturing environment where your body and mind can naturally restore and rebalance.

By opening ourselves to this subtle yet powerful practice, we give our inner

wisdom a chance to lead. Healing begins with a single intention; and Reiki

helps guide the rest.

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Ashley - Reiki Practitioner