An Introduction to Reiki

If you're new to Reiki, or have never heard of it, this guide will walk you through the basics and answer some frequently asked questions. Whether you’re simply curious or considering booking a session, my hope is that this brings clarity and insight.

✨ What is Reiki?

Reiki is an ancient energy healing modality that originated in Japan. The word Rei translates to “spiritual” or “universal,” and Ki means “life force energy.” Together, Reiki refers to the spiritual energy of the highest good that flows through all living things.

Reiki is a gentle, yet powerful way to balance energy, support relaxation, and promote healing on every level—mind, body, and spirit. It’s often described as a form of energetic nourishment or soul-level rest. At its core, Reiki helps bring you back into alignment with your natural state of well-being.

🌿 What happens in a Reiki session?

During a Reiki session, you’ll either lie down or sit comfortably in a peaceful environment. You’re welcome to close your eyes and enjoy soft music while I hold space and allow the Reiki energy to flow.

I’ll gently place my hands on or just above various points on your body, common placements include the crown of the head, shoulders, heart, and feet. You don’t need to do anything. Just breathe, rest, and allow yourself to receive.

At the end of your session, we can take a few minutes to discuss anything you experienced or anything you’d like to share or ask about.

🌸 What will I be doing during the session?

You’ll be relaxing! Many people go into a meditative state or even fall asleep - which is perfectly okay. Reiki continues to work even if you drift off. Others feel warmth, tingling, or emotional release. You may simply feel calm and peaceful. You could have thoughts and memories come up. Every experience is different and perfect as it is. There’s no right or wrong experience - just allow whatever wants to arise.

🌀 What are the origins of Reiki?

Reiki was developed in Japan in the early 20th century by Mikao Usui. After a powerful spiritual experience on Mt. Kurama, Usui received insight into a healing system that combined meditation, energy work, and spiritual practice. He began teaching and sharing Reiki, and the lineage has since expanded all over the world through his students and their students.

🔥 What type of Reiki do you offer?

I am certified as a Reiki Master in both traditional Usui Reiki, Holy Fire® Reiki and Karuna Reiki® . Each lineage has its own unique energy and strengths, but all are rooted in love, light, and spiritual alignment. Holy Fire® Reiki, in particular, is known for being very intuitive, deeply healing, and spiritually guided.

🌙 How should I prepare for a session?

You don’t need to do anything special to prepare—but here are a few gentle suggestions:

• Wear comfortable clothing

• Avoid heavy meals or stimulants like caffeine beforehand if possible

• Set an intention or reflect on why you’re drawn to Reiki right now

• Drink a lot of water to hydrate afterward

The most important thing is to come with an open mind and heart.

💫 How will I feel during and after a session?

Everyone experiences Reiki differently. During your session, you might feel sensations like warmth, tingling, or gentle waves of energy. Some people experience visual imagery, emotional release, or insight. Others simply feel calm, safe, and held.

After a session, you may feel light, peaceful, emotional, sleepy, or even energized and inspired. Some people experience subtle detox-like symptoms such as fatigue or mild headaches as their body adjusts. This is temporary and part of the rebalancing process. Hydration and rest are your best allies afterward.

🩺 Can Reiki cure my illness or disease?

Reiki is a complementary practice and is not a replacement for medical care. It’s increasingly being used in hospitals and wellness centers around the world to support healing, reduce stress, and promote comfort. Reiki helps create the conditions for healing to occur—spiritually, emotionally, and energetically.

Always consult your medical provider for diagnosis or treatment of physical conditions. Reiki can support and enhance that healing journey.

🔁 How often should I receive Reiki?

As often as feels right to you. Some people come weekly during periods of stress or transformation, while others come monthly or intuitively when they feel called. There’s no one-size-fits-all rule - just follow what feels aligned for you.

🌐 How do distance Reiki sessions work?

Distance Reiki works exactly the same as in-person sessions - energy is not bound by time or space. If you’ve ever felt someone’s energy over a phone call or been moved by a video, you’ve already experienced how energy can travel.

During a distance session, I tune into your energy field and allow Reiki to flow just as I would in person. You’ll still be invited to rest, relax, and receive and the healing is just as potent.

⚖️ Are there any downsides to Reiki?

Reiki always works in the best interest of the recipient and can do no harm. That said, energy shifts can sometimes bring old emotions or stagnant energy to the surface for release. Occasionally, clients may feel tired, emotional, or have a light headache after a session—but this usually passes quickly.

The most common side effects? Feeling peaceful, grounded, reconnected, and renewed.

💌 Still have questions?

I’d love to connect with you. If you have any additional questions or want to explore Reiki for yourself, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help or point you toward resources, classes, or sessions that align with where you are.

With love and light,

Meredith ❤️