- Reiki Frequently Asked Questions -
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a Japanese word, pronounced ‘ray key’ meaning Universal Life Energy. Reiki is a subtle and ancient healing technique based on the principle that the practitioner can channel energy into another by means of touch. It can activate the natural healing processes of the body and restore physical and emotional well-being.
What are some things Reiki may help with?
Reiki is so wonderful gentle it may help with you a wide array of issues. It can accelerate healing, assist the body in cleaning out toxins, balance the flow of subtle energy releasing blockages, reduce anxiety, provide focus, recovery from surgery, pain relief from migraines, arthritis, and sciatica to name a few, asthma, chronic fatigue, menopausal symptoms, menustral pain, and insomnia. It is able to help with so much, the list is endless.
Where does Reiki energy come from?
Energy is around us and runs through all living things. Reiki energy is different than electricity, chemical or other kinds of physical energy. Reiki energy comes from a Higher Power, which exists on a higher plane than the physical world we are familiar with. Everything we do daily uses our energy. Sometimes we become ill due to the pressures of life, causing our own energy levels to be become too depleted. The energy that surrounds all of us, is sent to you, the receiver in a powerful and concentrated way through the hands of a trained practitioner.
Is Reiki a religion?
Although Reiki energy is considered spiritual, Reiki is not a religion. Reiki will work just as effectively no matter what belief system you have. Practitioners are not asked, nor required to change any religious, or spiritual beliefs they have, and are free to continue believing in whatever they want.
How is a Reiki session conducted?
In a standard session, Reiki energy flows from my hands into you, the client. Clients may be laying down, standing or sitting, whatever is most comfortable for you. Since many find it so relaxing, I prefer my clients lay on a massage table or comfortable surface if possible. The client remains fully clothed, usually covered with a blanket. My hands are placed on or near your body in different positions. These may include around the head, shoulders, stomach, feet and the 7 main chakras. Other, more specific positions may be used based on your needs. Each position is held on average 3-5 minutes (or longer) depending on how much Reiki is needed in each area. The whole treatment, with consultation may last from 15 to 60 minutes.
What if I don’t want you to actually touch me?
That is perfectly fine. My hands do not need to touch you in any way. You will receive all the benefits of Reiki energy with my hands above your body.
Do I need to believe in Reiki for it to help?
No, you do not need to understand or believe in Reiki to benefit. However, if you are receiving Reiki energy, you need to want it to help. Strangely, some people don't actually want to be rid of their illness(s), in this case, Reiki will not help.
Is Reiki safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Reiki energy is guided by a Higher Power, it will know the condition of the client and adjust accordingly. Reiki will only do good. Many women have received treatments during pregnancy with great benefit to them and their unborn child. It is also quite effective during child birth.
Is Reiki safe for babies and children?
Children love Reiki, it is very healthy for them. Reiki will automatically adjust to what is needed by each living thing, at that time.
Is Reiki safe for animals and plants?
Most animals love Reiki too. They seem to have a natural understanding of Reiki and its benefits. My dogs receive treatments all the time. I also use Reiki in my gardens, plants respond well to Reiki. I have even sent Reiki to Mother Earth.
Are you qualified to give Reiki and Reiki Distance Healing sessions on animals?
Yes, I am trained and certified in Reiki for animals. I love working with animals, they fun a generally very receptive to Reiki energy.
What is Reiki Distance Healing?
Reiki knows no barriers, boundaries or time restraints. Reiki may be sent to the future, past and to people who are not physically in the same room as the practitioner. I can send Reiki energy to anyone, or anything using the symbols, mantras and skills given to me by my Reiki Master Teacher during my Reiki training and attunements. Reiki Distance Healing is just as effective as hands-on treatments.
What happens during a Reiki Distance Healing session?
Reiki is sent on a physical, emotional and spiritual level, simultaneously. If your problem is related to stress and/or anxiety, Reiki energies will be channeled to you, easing that stress and anxiety. It will also work on other issues you are experiencing, all for your highest good. Your body will absorb as much, or as little Reiki energy need at that time. Using Reiki symbols and mantras transferred to me by my Reiki Master Teacher, along with intention, I focus on you and prepare to send Reiki. Distance Healing sessions will be conducted using a surrogate for hands-on treatment, ensuring all areas of the body receive Reiki energy.
Throughout the session my hands and body get hotter and hotter with the build-up of energy. I may receive tingles, heat or coldness in parts of my body, you may as well. If you feel nothing, that is just fine. The energy is still flowing and working. Reiki energy is always received.
Will I feel anything during Reiki or a Reiki Distance Healing Session?
Each person reacts differently to their session, generally no 2 sessions or people are alike. Occasionally you may feel parts of your body get warm, cold, hot, tingle, pulsate, or other sensations. Some see colors, hear messages, have emotional releases, as indicated before, each person is different. Even if you feel like Reiki did nothing for you, it will. Sometimes our issues are so deep seated that we need many sessions to deal with these issues.
How do I prepare myself to receive Reiki Distance Healing?
A huge benefit of receiving Reiki Distance Healing is you do not need to stop what you are doing. You may carry on as normal, knowing that Reiki energies are being sent. I find that many people like to relax while they are receiving the healing energies, but it is not necessary.
What does a Reiki or Reiki Distance Healing session feel like?
As stated above, no 2 sessions are alike, as no 2 people will have the same experience. It will vary from person to person. However, a feeling of deep relaxation, and peace usually flows through and surrounds the recipient. A state of well-being is usually experienced since the Reiki energy encourages one to let go of all tension, anxiety, fear and negativity. Some may drift off to sleep, report floating outside their body, or have visions and other mystical experiences. When the session if over, you may feel refreshed, positive, and balanced.
Is it possible to "overdose" on or become addicted to Reiki or Reiki Distance Healing?
No, your body will only take as much Reiki energy as is needed at that time for your highest good. You cannot "overdose" or become addicted to Reiki. You will be perfectly able to stop receiving Reiki treatments whenever you choose to. However, you may feel so wonderful after a session you will not want to. J There is no documented evidence to suggest you can have too much Reiki.
Do you use crystals and crystal energy during a Reiki or Reiki Distance Healing session?
Yes, I have the knowledge and ability to use crystal energy with the Reiki energy. Using crystals with Reiki is like having amplified energy working for you. We can discuss your needs and expectations during the consultation.
Do you send Reiki over the Internet or Telephone?
No, the internet or phone are used as a way contact you. It is a means to obtain information about you in picture or consultation form. Remember, Reiki knows no barriers, I can send Reiki to you without the help of technology, much like intention.
Are there any after affects?
Reiki is a safe, gentle and non-invasive form of healing. However, Reiki helps to remove toxins from the body, you may experience a headache, slight nausea or light headed. Drink plenty of water, get rest and eat a balanced meal after a session. Even though this should be minimal, take care driving, using machinery or operating equipment.
Must you be sick to benefit from Reiki or Reiki Distance Healing?
No, many people take a proactive approach to their health. Reiki and Reiki Distance Healing, help you to revitalize, renew and maintain your energy levels, keeping your body, mind and spirit in harmony.
Do I need to tell my physician I am receiving Reiki?
Reiki compliments all types of medical treatments, and will not affect any modalities you are currently using. Continue with your medical treatment(s) as prescribed, until advised differently by your medical professional.
How can you help me when we haven't ever met?
I do not need to personally meet you. It is helpful to have a picture and birth-date to work with, as well as basic information about you, an animal or event that you would like Reiki directed to. Reiki energy will go where needed for your or their highest good.
Are sessions confidential?
Absolutely! I am bound by integrity and a code of ethics. None of your information shall be shared with anyone unless written consent is given.
What guarantees are there it will work for me?
There are no absolutes in traditional medicine, as well as Reiki. However, Reiki is known to have helped many illness and injuries including cancer, heart disease, broken bones, cuts, headaches, colds, insomnia, lack of energy, impotence and a whole lot more. Whatever your illness or problem, Reiki is very likely to aid and compliment all other types of treatments you are receiving. Remember, Reiki is gentle, safe for all, non-invasive, non-addictive and has no long-term side-affects.
What is a Reiki attunement?
An attunement is the process by which a person receives the ability to give Reiki sessions. The attunement is administered by a Reiki Master Teacher during a Reiki class. During the attunement, the Reiki Master Teacher will touch the head, shoulders, and hands using one or more of the Reiki symbols. The attunement energies will flow through the Reiki Master Teacher and into the student. The student can then channel and use Reiki energy to help others. I have had many attunements.
Does insurance cover Reiki sessions?
Some insurance companies recognize Reiki as a healing modality. Check with your local insurance company to see if they will cover a session.
Do you use aromatherapy in your Reiki sessions?
Yes, as a clinical aromatherapist I am able to use essential oils to aid you in your session. Most likely the essential oils will be diffused during your session and possibly a topical blend made specifically for you. Again, this would be something discussed in your consultation.
What if I have more questions?
I will try to address any questions you may have. Send an email to melissa@sweetwillowspirit.com.
Can I Book a Session?
Sure! Click here to learn more.