Reiki is a Japanese energy healing technique. The predominant form of Reiki practiced throughout the world today, also known as Usui Reiki, was created by Dr. Mikao Usui in the early 20th century. Reiki is a complementary or alternative health approach. Reiki does not directly cure diseases or illnesses. Instead, it’s used as a way to manage symptoms and improve general well-being. Reiki is not a religion and can not be used to harm anyone. Reiki is not intended to replace any doctor-approved treatment plan.

During a Reiki session, the practitioner places their hands either directly on you or just above you to bring about healing. The belief is that the practitioner is able to stimulate your body’s natural healing abilities. A full Reiki session usually lasts 30-90 minutes.

After receiving Reiki, people report feeling a beautiful sense of calm, inner peace, and relaxation. Some other benefits of Reiki include: a relief from pain, anxiety, depression and fatigue; the enhancement of quality of life and a boost in mood; reduction and/or elimination of symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and insomnia. Many of these benefits have been backed up by scientific studies.

Reiki is non-invasive and doesn’t have any known harmful side effects. For those with a past trauma, lying quietly in a dim room with someone close to you might be uncomfortable.