What is Reiki?
The word Reiki means ‘universal life energy’ in Japanese, where this therapy originated at the turn of the century. Reiki is based on the premise that illness is caused by a disruption in the body’s energy field or life force. By using specially designed symbols and channelling energy, it is believed that the body can be filled with positive energy causing the disease-making negative energy to disappear.
How does it work?
Reiki heals by charging negatively affected parts of the energy field with positive energy. Energy fields in the body each have different vibratory levels and reiki practitioners use their hands to affect and hopefully rebalance these vibrations in the negatively affected part of the body.
What does it involve?
Although the reiki practitioner may ask questions about the client’s health prior to treatment, it is important to note that no diagnosis, prognosis or advice will be offered. Remaining fully clothed, the client prepares for treatment by relaxing on a massage couch, or sitting if that is more comfortable. The practitioner may then rest their hands lightly and gently on the body in a sequence of positions, each one being held for a couple of minutes.
What is it good for?
Reiki can be used to relieve the symptoms of chronic illnesses such as anxiety, insomnia, back pain and arthritis, and it often produces long-term beneficial changes. In most cases the practitioner will suggest a course of four, six or twelve treatments for maximum benefit.
What are the benefits?
Aside from treating physical, mental and emotional problems, most clients report that a reiki treatment feels wonderful, and promotes a sense of relaxation and well being.
What are the side effects and when should it be avoided?
As a general rule, reiki can’t do any harm because it is a form of non-invasive energy healing and will adjust itself to create the most appropriate effect for each individual person. However, although most people feel peaceful and relaxed after treatment, it can stir up emotions as part of the healing process. Some people also experience a healing reaction such as a headache or flulike symptoms, but any discomfort should be short-lived. (From Embodyforyou.com)