Wellbeing

What is Reiki and how does it work?

Reiki Practitioner and our Expert in Residence, Louise Wilson, reveals everything we need to know about Reiki.

Written by Rachael Nichol

Published 09.09.2023

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When it comes to our mental wellbeing, we’ve all tried different ways to heal whether it be crystals, meditation or throwing ourselves into ice baths.

But one wellness trend that’s really having a moment is Reiki.

Whether you’re already aware or have never heard of this spiritual healing before, Reiki is said to be a secret source of zen that leaves you feeling stress-relieved and rejuvenated with some even saying they ‘can still feel the benefits a week later’– sign us up.

We caught up with our Expert in Residence and Reiki Practitioner, Louise Wilson to find out everything we need to know about Reiki from what it actually is to if it actually works…

HLN TOP TIP: Louise is kindly offering one of our lucky readers the chance to win a session of Reiki. Enter the competition here.

WHAT IS REIKI?

Reiki is a form of alternative therapy that originated in Japan – of which Master Mikao Usui (1865-1926) is recognised as the father of. Reiki is passed down from teacher to student, with each student receiving an attunement telling to their level of practice. The levels are Reiki 1, Reiki 2 (practitioner) and Reiki Master.

The word Reiki means ‘universal life force energy’ and is based on the idea that everything in the universe is made up of energy. ‘Rei’ means spiritual wisdom or universal and ‘ki’ means ‘life force energy’ or ‘energy’.

Image credit: gazawaugh

HOW DOES REIKI WORK?

I use my hands to channel energy to you to promote relaxation, reduce stress and encourage healing. I place my hands on or near your body, allowing the energy to pass through me to you. Although you may set an intention for a specific issue, Reiki energy knows exactly where to go. The premise of Reiki is that it only heals what you are ready to heal at the time of the session.

Reiki energy is not bound by the usual laws surrounding time and space meaning that it can be given when you and I aren’t in the same physical space – i.e. during an online Reiki session and also for ancestral healing.

WHAT IS MEANT BY CHAKRA?

Chakra means ‘wheel’ or ‘wheel of light’ (Sanskrit) Just as a wheel spins slowly or rapidly a chakra may have more or less energy. – Ideally, in a balanced system all chakras have the same energy and are open, bright in their native colours with a clockwise movement and free of blemishes.

Each chakra has six main characteristics; colours, spin, size, shape, how open and how much energy. There is a direct relationship between each chakra, emotions and anatomy/physiology.

Image credit: Chakra Store

WHAT IS REIKI GOOD FOR?

Relieving pain, anxiety and fatigue
Stress relief
Feel more relaxed
Helps with depression
Sleep better
Quality of life and general wellbeing
Boosts mood

REIKI SIDE EFFECTS

There are no specific side effects, and it is safe for everyone at all life stages. Occasionally, Reiki can ‘stir up’ emotions, however – a bit like when you move water in a pond and it becomes cloudy – the best way to approach this is to drink plenty of water and think of it as energy moving through (better out than stagnant) and things will settle again.

REIKI AFTERCARE:

If possible, take it easy after a session of Reiki – don’t head straight to the gym.
Drink plenty of water as this flushes out toxins and the energies created during the session and will support healing after the session.
Eat healthily and avoid hard to digest, greasy and processed food and refined sugary drinks. Also avoid alcohol/tobacco for 24 hours.
Notice your feelings. I will suggest journaling if this resonates with you. I always check in with you the next day and you can of course contact me if you have any questions.

HOW MANY REIKI SESSIONS ARE NEEDED?

One session is a great start. It really depends on how you feel after the session and the issues you have. Some people will have multiple sessions a week or two apart, other people choose to see it as part of their self-care in the same way they might book a monthly massage for example. You cannot ‘overdo’ Reiki.

Image credit: gazawaugh

WHAT MIGHT I EXPERIENCE?

You might feel tingling, heat/coolness, gentle pressure/energy or other sensations. You may see colours or images and sometimes you may feel nothing at all, but this doesn’t mean that Reiki is not flowing. Each session is different but will be exactly right for whatever you need.

HOW MUCH DOES REIKI HEALING COST?

£40 for a session lasting up to approximately 1 hour.

Image: Karma Coast treatment room

DOES REIKI WORK?

We asked Louise’s clients…

‘I came into Reiki with no expectations or not knowing what would happen and left a huge fan. Immediately after I felt lighter, uplifted and full of gratitude – even a week later I’m still feeling the benefits.’

‘Reiki with Louise felt comforting and safe. Because of that I was able to fully experience the physical and mental sensations through the session. It felt like relief, assurance, and support.’

‘Louise truly has the wonderful energy which instantly makes you feel safe, calm and protected. I’ve had 3 Reiki sessions with Louise and each time has been amazing. I’ve left each session feeling grounded, lighter, bright and positive.’