Frequently Asked Questions about Reiki.

17. Q.What is energy?
    

A. Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter that make up everyday objects. A desk, the air, even you are made up of atoms! In many dictionaries, energy is defined as “the capacity to do work.” In physics, energy is a property of objects which can be transferred to other objects or converted into different forms, but cannot be created or destroyed. In the last 20 years scientists have gone from a conviction that there is no such thing as an energy field around the human body, to an absolute certainty that it exists.  Our own bodies, like all living organisms, are energy conversion  machines.

Q. What is Reiki? 

A. Reiki means Universal Energy. It is a subtle energy that flows through everything. Others call it Chi, Ki, life force, Prana, divine breath, ni, Sekhem, Light or Holy Ghost, Mana, Ruach or Baraka.    

Q. Is Reiki a religion?

A. Although Reiki energy is spiritual in nature, Reiki is not a religion.

Q. How is a Reiki treatment given?

A. In a standard treatment, the Reiki practitioner will prepare themselves to receive Reiki for the highest good of the client. Reiki energy will flow from the practitioner’s hands into the client. The client will subconsciously draw the energy to where it is needed in their energy system. The client is usually lying on a massage table but treatments can also be given while the client is seated or even standing. The client remains fully clothed. The practitioner places her/his hands on or near the client’s body in a series of hand positions. These include positions around the head and shoulders, the stomach and feet. More specific positions may be used based on the client’s needs. Each position is held for three to ten minutes depending on how much Reiki the client needs at each position. The whole treatment usually lasts between 45 and 90 minutes.

Q. What does a Reiki treatment feel like?

A. Every Reiki treatment is different. Reiki energy encourages one to let go of all tension, anxiety, fear or other negative feelings so a state of deep relaxation and well-being being can be experienced. In addition, many feel energy shifts within their body, they may feel a pulsing sensation, heat or cold. Some drift off to sleep, some feel like they’re floating or have visions or other mystical experiences. At the end of the treatment, one feels refreshed with a more positive, balanced outlook.

Q. Are there any side effects from a Reiki treatment?

A. Most of the time a person will feel relaxed and uplifted by a Reiki treatment. However, sometimes a person will have what is called a healing crisis. As a person’s vibration goes up, toxins that have been stored in the body will be released into the blood stream to be filtered by the liver and kidneys and removed from the system. When this happens, sometimes a person can get a headache or stomach ache or feel weak. If this happens, it is a good idea to drink more water, eat lighter meals and get more rest. The body is cleansing as part of the healing process so this is a good sign.

Q. What can be treated with Reiki?

A. Reiki has had a positive effect on all forms of illness and negative conditions. This includes head or stomach aches, bee stings, colds, flu, tension and anxiety as well as illnesses like heart disease, cancer etc. The side effects of regular medical treatments have also been reduced or eliminated. This includes the negative effects of chemotherapy, post-operative pain, and depression as well as improving the healing rate and reducing the time needed to stay in hospital. Reiki always helps and in some cases people have experienced complete healings which have been confirmed by medical tests before and after the Reiki treatments. However, while some have experienced miracles, they cannot be guaranteed. Stress reduction with some improvement in one’s physical and psychological condition are what most experience. When one is relaxed, self-healing can start.  

Q. Do I have to stop seeing a regular doctor or psychologist in order to receive a Reiki treatment?

A. No. Reiki works in conjunction with regular medical or psychological treatment. If you have a medical or psychological condition, it is recommended that you see a licensed health care professional in addition to receiving Reiki treatments. Reiki energy works in harmony with all other forms of healing, including drugs, surgery, psychological care or any other method of alternative care and will improve the results.

Q. Is it safe for pregnant women?

A. Since Reiki is guided by a Higher Power, Reiki energy will know the condition of the client and adjust appropriately. Reiki can only do good. Many pregnant women have received treatments with great benefit to them and their unborn child. It has also been used during childbirth.

Q. What about babies?

A. Babies love Reiki. It is very healthy for them. Do not worry about it being too strong. Reiki automatically adjusts to what the baby needs.

Q. Can you treat animals or plants?

A. Animals love Reiki too. They seem to have a natural understanding of what Reiki is and its benefits. Once a pet has received a Reiki treatment, they will often let you know that they want more. Plants also respond well to Reiki.

Q. I have heard that Reiki can be sent to others at a distance. How does this work?

A. Yes, in Reiki II, you are given three Reiki symbols. One of these symbols is for distant healing. By using a picture of the person you would like to send Reiki to or by writing the person’s name on a piece of paper or simply by thinking of the person and also activating the distant symbol, you can send Reiki to them no matter where they are. They could be hundreds of miles away, but it makes no difference. The Reiki energy will go to them and treat them. You can also send Reiki to crisis situations or world leaders and the Reiki energy will help them too.

Q. Are there any scientific experiments regarding Reiki?

A. Yes, go to www.centerforreikiresearch.org