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What To Expect From A Reiki Session And 10 Good Questions To Ask

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black woman laying down illustrates reiki session hand position head.

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As Reiki becomes more popular for stress, pain reduction, and healing, many people wonder what to expect from a Reiki Session. Also, what are good questions to ask to be sure you are in good hands? (Literally and figuratively.)

Reiki is Japanese energy work. It has been around for many decades and possibly millennia. But this holistic healing modality has become very popular in the last 20 years.

Many significant hospitals, like the Mayo Clinic, UCLA, and Kosairs Children’s Hospital, use Reiki. In addition, outstanding researchers such as Harvard and Yale are creating studies to further understand what makes Reiki work.

We are both Reiki Masters and can help you understand what to expect from a Reiki Session. There is nothing to be concerned or nervous about.

However, we know knowledge is power. Let’s walk you through what to expect from a Reiki session and answer 10 good questions you might have. How To Improve My Energy Field? 5 Fabulous Ways To Really Feel Better

Woman looking under bed for something that is lost.

What To Expect From A Reiki Session Question #1: Where Do I Find A Practitioner?

There are Reiki Practitioners all over the United States and the world. Western medicine is truly beginning to embrace energy healing. However, the majority of practitioners are common non-medical facilitators.

It can be easy to find a practitioner offering Reiki sessions in yoga centers, meditation retreats, massage therapy offices, chiropractic offices, and holistic healing centers. In addition, some practitioners have small private offices or even practice out of their homes.

certificate illustrates completion of reiki training.

What To Expect From A Reiki Session Question #2: What Credentials Should My Reiki Practitioner Have?

Reiki is learned in 3 levels of accreditation known as Level 1, Level 2, and Master Level 3. An additional level is Reiki Master Teacher. There are expected to be several months of study and practice between each level. At the end of each one, the student is given a certificate of completion.

The majority of states in the US do not require licensing for Reiki Practitioners. However, it is considered good practice by most Reiki Master Teachers that a person be at least a Level 2 Reiki Practitioner before working on the general public and charging for it.

Woman surrounded by question marks illustrating questions that explain what to expect during a reiki session.

What To Expect From A Reiki Session Question #3: What Questions Should I Ask Before Making An Appointment?

It is reasonable to ask what a practitioner’s credentials are before you book your Reiki Session. Some good questions would be:

1.) What Levels of Reiki have you completed?

2.) Who did you study with? (be mindful if the practitioner took an online class instead of working in person, with one-on-one training from a qualified Reiki Master teacher to certify them.)

3.) How long have you practiced Reiki, and where?”

4.) Do you have experience working with ________ ?(whatever reason you are booking this appointment)

5.) Do you have any other holistic or medical qualifications that might be used in my session?

black woman thoughtful facial expression illustrates thinking about what to expect from a reiki session.

What To Expect From A Reiki Session Question #4: How Do I Know If I Need A Reiki Session?

Many people turn to Reiki to help manage a stressful time or a stressful life. Sometimes clients seek to ease pain or symptoms from a long-term illness or treatment. For example, many Oncologists suggest Reiki to lessen the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.

Often clients have read about the studies being done on Reiki and its effect on the immune system. In a post covid world, we are all aware that our immune system needs a long shelf life and a regular battery charge. So Reiki is part of their wellness plan.  How To Improve My Energy Field? 5 Fabulous Ways To Really Feel Better

Then some schedule a Reiki session just because they enjoy the feeling of groundedness and balance after a session. For many, a Reiki session is their happy place.

clock with flowers at bottom of clock illustrates how long a reiki session lasts.

What To Expect From A Reiki Session Question #5: How Long Does A Reiki Session Usually Last?

A professional Reiki session usually takes about an hour. It may be longer on your first visit. Your practitioner will have questions for you and possible intake paperwork to be completed. The actual session generally last about 30-45 minutes.

woman looking at clothing closet questioning illustrates what to expect from a reiki and what to wear.

What To Expect From A Reiki Session Question #6: Will I Be Clothed The Whole Time And If So…What Do I Wear?

You will be fully clothed the entire time but might be most comfortable in comfy, loose-fitting clothes. Of course, you could get Reiki in a suit, but why not be comfy casual to easily relax?

journal tea cinnamon sticks and blanket illustrating things a person may want after a reiki session.

What To Expect From A Reiki Session Question #7: What Do I Do To Prepare?

Before your session, be sure to be hydrated and have some food. Nothing excessive. Just drink some water and have a snack. The relaxed state of Reiki can lower your blood sugar, and all holistic work flows better in a well-hydrated body. It’s also hard to be comfortable if you are hungry or thirsty. How To Improve My Energy Field? 5 Fabulous Ways To Really Feel Better 

A Reiki Session can be very relaxing, so set yourself up for success. Go easy on the caffeine and sugar. On the other hand, don’t deprive yourself if you typically have a cup of coffee and a donut in the morning. Just nothing extra like a monster drink and an additional bear claw.

candles crystals and flowers illustrates what to expect from a reiki session

What To Expect From A Reiki Session Question #8: What Is The Actual Appointment Like?

This differs from practitioner to practitioner. All hairdressers, all dentists, all doctors, all massage therapists have their own style, even if offering the same service. This is the same. So let’s work with basics.

Typically, your session will occur somewhere quiet and pleasant (if not, you might want to find another practitioner). Most Reiki practitioners will have you fill out some light paperwork asking for your contact info, an emergency number, and fundamental questions about your well-being.

A disclaimer often states that your Reiki practitioner is not an MD and that your Reiki session is not meant to replace necessary health care.

Your practitioner will ask simple questions to understand why you are there and what you hope to receive from your time together. In addition, they will give you some basic, simple-to-understand information about how Reiki works and what to expect. How To Improve My Energy Field? 5 Fabulous Ways To Really Feel Better

candles crystals and flowers illustrates what to expect from a reiki session

Usually, you will be asked to lie on a massage table or zero-gravity lounge-type chair. Occasionally, your session will occur with you sitting in a comfortable chair. Again, you will always be fully clothed unless you get Reiki during a massage.

Ok… I’m Listening…What Else?

It’s not uncommon for the Reiki Session room to have an atmosphere of soft light and relaxing music to create a space of safe, soothing relaxation. You will often be offered a blanket and invited to take your shoes off (but not mandatory if you have shy tootsies).

Your Reiki practitioner may start with a guided meditation or guide you through imagery throughout the session. You will be reminded to take deep breaths or be in the present moment. Occasionally, practitioners say nothing at all.

You will feel the practitioner’s hands lightly on your head, neck, and shoulders above your heart, abdomen, hips, knees, and ankles.

singing bowls and crystals illustrates what to expect from a reiki session.

Sometimes Reiki practitioners use Essential Oils, Crystals, and other sound and vibration tools. These are effective and soothing to your nervous system. We recommend enjoying them. However, if you don’t want these items used during your session, you only need to tell your practitioner.

You may feel heat from the Reiki practitioner’s hands during your Reiki session. You might notice sensations in your body, like a slight internal vibration. Some clients say they don’t have words for what they feel. They are very aware of their body or feel like they are floating without it.

woman in a hammock with peaceful nature surrounding her illustrates the calming effect of reiki.

Finally, Your Mind Gets To Rest.

Some people express a peaceful clarity while in their Reiki session. This feeling creates a sense of contentment. Others notice a tingling of emotion, not upset, but tears. This is often because your nervous system finally feels safe to just…let go a little bit.

There is also the possibility that you feel nothing at all during your Reiki session. That doesn’t mean it’s not working. It just means your mind is busy with other things and is not noticing the subtle energies.

This happens to many “busy thinkers” on their first Reiki session (including both of us). All is well. Your mind doesn’t know what to do with this feeling and doesn’t register it. The energy is still working. You will get more comfortable with allowing the nuances with every session. How To Improve My Energy Field? 5 Fabulous Ways To Really Feel Better

young girl facial expression thinking illustrates question what to expect from a reiki session

What To Expect From A Reiki Session Question #9: How Often Should I Get A Reiki Session?

There is yet to be a definite answer to this one. How often to get a Reiki session is up to you, and your reason for using Reiki. For example, you might approach sessions on an “as-needed” bases for relaxation, grounding, centering, and balancing. This is also true for someone using Reiki for headaches, muscle or joint pain.

It’s not unusual for Cancer clients or those with other treatments to get a Reiki Session just before or immediately after their treatment. This is how Reiki is used in many cancer hospitals.

Some people treat Reiki as part of their good health, scheduling a session every 2-4 weeks. However, it’s very fortunate if you can find a massage therapist who also is a Reiki practitioner. This would allow you to get Reiki and massage as part of your wellness plan.

man journaling next to ocean illustrates something a person might do after a reiki session.

What To Expect From A Reiki Session Question #10: What Do I Do Afterwards?

Everyone’s Reiki experience is unique to them. However, a constant is that you will feel very at ease. Many people get a Reiki session on their lunch break, feeling that Reiki is a great pick me up. How To Improve My Energy Field? 5 Fabulous Ways To Really Feel Better

Others like to schedule their Reiki session when they have a light day or little to do for the afternoon. This allows them to keep feeling relaxed, grounded, and centered.

Many say they feel very clear-headed afterward. So for those folks, make some quiet time immediately after that for journaling or problem-solving.

It’s not unusual for something you have been trying to figure out to be very evident after a Reiki session. Sometimes clients say they can finally hear themselves think. They get clear, gentle inspirations once they are more balanced.

woman with a peaceful facial expression illustrates effect of reiki.

You may find you don’t remember these thoughts. Take a moment to write down your ideas and inspirations as soon as possible. They may not make sense in the moment. Hang on to them. They often mean something in a big way later. Your Inner Being is getting to talk to you while you are calm, grounded, and centered. Be sure to listen.

So Go Ahead…Gift Yourself With This Beautiful, Holistic, Scientific Modality Of Calm and Balance.

Ask around. You might be surprised who in your social group is already experiencing this subtle energy work. Social Media and Google are good places to read reviews and know who is available for a Reiki Session in your area.

Even if you are in a small town, you still have an excellent chance that there is a Reiki Practitioner close by. We are not kidding when we say…Reiki is EVERYWHERE.

Pixi-Pebbles For Exploring And Discovering What To Expect From A Reiki Session. 

We’ve used these little Pixi-Pebbles to move ourselves from a feeling we’re not enjoying very much…to a feeling that helps us discover our vision of intention, awareness, and direction.

They lead us to hope, possibilities, and a fire under our butt to live life by design instead of default.

In our blog message, What To Expect From A Reiki Session And 10 Good Questions To Ask these are the Pixi-Pebbles that came to mind.

Just a little inspiration to get you from here to there.

While we both discovered Reiki at different times in our lives, when we both discovered Reiki we are in places of needing…something more than we knew. We were learning how to live our truth and find healthy expressions of that truth. 

As you explore what to expect from a Reiki session and if this is something that fits for you, we want to share a song from one of our favorite groups, Fearless Soul…just a little Pixi-Pebble to encourage you to explore and discover a little each day so you can truly can live your best life, expressing your most authentic self!

Click here to listen to this inspiration song from Fearless Soul. 

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Meet Nikki:

Nikki has a way of making almost anything meaningful, interesting, and fun. She loves cats, believes you can learn a lot about yourself by shooting hoops in the park, and has a mad love affair with trees. As a Certified Neuro-linguistic Programming Practitioner, Intentional Living Mentor, Reiki Master, and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, she understands how to help others create change and has a talent for making you enjoy doing it.

Enchanted perspectives creator Nikki and Jennifer sitting against tree

Meet Jennifer:

Jennifer is a woman who definitely lives life by design. As an Artist, Certified Holistic Life Coach, Reiki Master Teacher, Spiritual Studies Mentor, and Certified EFT Practitioner, she helps others find their unique, magical, and authentic selves. She loves art, music, nature, travel and believes everyone can dance. Jennifer is a compassionate teacher that enjoys inspiring others to find their own creativity, intuition, and passion for life.
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