What Is Reiki?
Reiki is a complementary wellbeing practice that originated in Japan. It commonly involves a practitioner placing their hands lightly on, or just above, different areas of the body while the recipient remains fully clothed.
People may explore Reiki for relaxation, personal wellbeing, reflection or simply as an opportunity to spend some quiet time away from the pressures of everyday life.
What Does Reiki Mean?
Reiki developed in Japan in the early twentieth century and is most closely associated with Mikao Usui, whose teachings became the foundation for many of the Reiki systems practised around the world today.
The word Reiki is commonly described using two Japanese concepts: “rei”, often translated in connection with something universal or spiritual, and “ki”, referring to life energy.
Within traditional Reiki teaching, practitioners commonly describe Reiki in terms of the flow or balancing of energy. These ideas form part of the philosophy and tradition of Reiki rather than established medical science.
You do not need to follow a religion, hold a particular spiritual belief or understand Reiki theory in order to receive a Reiki session.
How Is Reiki Practised?
During an in-person Reiki session, you will normally remain fully clothed while sitting comfortably or lying on a treatment couch.
The practitioner may place their hands lightly on particular areas of the body or hold them a short distance above you. Practitioners generally move through a series of positions during the session.
Reiki is not a massage. It does not normally involve pressure, manipulation of muscles or joints, oils or the removal of clothing.
A Reiki session commonly involves:
- A calm and comfortable treatment environment
- Remaining fully clothed
- Sitting or lying down comfortably
- Light touch or hands held above the body
- Periods of quiet and relaxation
- No massage or physical manipulation
Why Do People Choose Reiki?
People become interested in Reiki for many different reasons. For some it is part of a wider interest in complementary therapies, meditation or personal wellbeing. Others may simply enjoy the peaceful environment and opportunity to relax.
Individual experiences of Reiki vary considerably. Some people describe feeling deeply relaxed during a session, while others may notice warmth, tingling or simply a sense of quiet. Others may experience very little physically.
There is no particular sensation that you are expected to experience and a Reiki session should not be presented as guaranteeing a particular result.
Relaxation
Some people use Reiki as an opportunity to slow down, rest and spend time in a peaceful environment.
Personal Wellbeing
Reiki may form one part of an individual's wider wellbeing routine alongside other healthy lifestyle choices.
Interest in Reiki
Receiving Reiki is often how people first encounter the practice before deciding whether they would like to learn more.
Where Did Reiki Come From?
Modern Reiki originated in Japan and is generally traced to Mikao Usui in the early twentieth century.
Usui developed a system of practice that combined hands-on techniques, personal development and guiding principles. Reiki was subsequently taught to other practitioners and gradually spread beyond Japan.
Over time, different schools and styles of Reiki developed. You may therefore encounter practitioners who describe their work as Usui Reiki, Usui Shiki Ryoho or by other Reiki traditions.
Although individual teaching styles can differ, many modern Reiki practitioners continue to trace their training through a teacher lineage connected to the original Usui tradition.
Is Reiki a Religion?
Reiki itself is not normally presented as a religion and there is no requirement to adopt a particular faith or set of religious beliefs in order to practise or receive Reiki.
Some practitioners approach Reiki from a spiritual perspective, while others view it primarily as a complementary wellbeing practice.
This means the language used by different Reiki practitioners can vary. If you are considering a session, it is perfectly reasonable to ask a practitioner about their approach beforehand.
What Reiki Is – and What It Isn't
Reiki is best regarded as a complementary wellbeing practice.
A responsible Reiki practitioner should not diagnose medical conditions, advise you to stop prescribed medication or suggest that Reiki should replace professional medical treatment.
If you have symptoms that concern you or an existing health condition, appropriate advice should be obtained from a qualified healthcare professional.
Reiki is not:
- A medical diagnosis
- A replacement for medical treatment
- Massage or physical manipulation
- A religion
- Something that requires a particular belief system
- A guaranteed treatment for any health condition
Can Anyone Learn Reiki?
Reiki training is available to beginners as well as people who have previously received Reiki treatments or have experience with other complementary practices.
Traditional Reiki teaching is usually divided into a number of stages or degrees. Students commonly begin with Reiki Level 1, before progressing to Reiki Level 2 and, for those wishing to continue further, Reiki Master or Teacher training.
Courses vary between teachers, so it is worth looking at the teacher's background, the amount of practical tuition provided, class size and whether ongoing support is available after completing the course.
Finding a Reiki Practitioner in Wales
Reiki practitioners work throughout Wales from treatment rooms, complementary therapy centres, wellbeing businesses and private practices.
When choosing a practitioner, consider their training, experience, approach and whether you feel comfortable asking questions before booking.
Reiki in Wales is developing local resources covering practitioners and services throughout South Wales, West Wales, Mid Wales and North Wales.
Common Questions About Reiki
Do I need to believe in Reiki for it to be practised?
No particular religious or spiritual belief is required to attend a Reiki session. People choose Reiki for a wide variety of personal reasons.
Do you remove your clothes for Reiki?
No. Reiki is normally practised while the recipient remains fully clothed. Comfortable clothing is generally suitable.
Does a Reiki practitioner touch you?
Some practitioners use gentle, light hand contact while others hold their hands just above the body. A practitioner should respect your preferences and explain their approach before beginning.
Is Reiki the same as massage?
No. Reiki does not normally involve massage, pressure, manipulation of muscles or joints, or the application of oils.
How long does a Reiki session last?
Session lengths vary between practitioners. Ask the practitioner how much time they allow when making your booking.
Can Reiki replace medical treatment?
No. Reiki should be regarded as a complementary wellbeing practice and should not replace appropriate medical diagnosis, treatment or advice.
Ready to Explore Reiki Further?
Now that you understand the basics of Reiki, you can learn what happens during a treatment, find practitioners across Wales or explore Reiki training and courses.