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What is Reiki?

Heather Rafanello, MSW, LCSW

Level 1 Usui Reiki Practitioner @GrowingMindsetTherapy 

The term comes from a combination of two Japanese words: “Rei,” which means universal, and “ki” which loosely translates to a lifeforce of energy. This energy is also known as Qi (pronounced chi), prana, in other cultures and practices.

Reiki, Reiki healing, or Reiki therapy rooted in Eastern Medicine, and founded on the belief that energy flows through the body.

During a Reiki session, a Reiki practitioner uses gentle touch, or simply hovers their hand over the body, to help guide the energy in your body to promote cleansing, balance, and healing. 

While to many, Reiki is considered an ancient Eastern form of energy healing, it was re-born in the 1920s by Mikao Usui. Being an Eastern form of medicine, there is limited western research on the topic, but it has been researched as a complimentary treatment for pain management, anxiety, and depression. 

During a Reiki session, clients lie on a massage table, fully clothed, while the practitioner places their hands on or over various parts of the body that store energy. Clients may experience light tingling or heat sensations while the energy is flowing through their body, while others report feeling nothing.

There are 3 different degrees of attunement for Usui Reiki practitioners. 

1. Level 1 Reiki Practitioner: at this level, a practitioner has the ability to practice hands-on, in person Reiki on themselves and others.

2. Level 2 Reiki Practitioner: this practitioner is able to practice distant reiki, where they provide energy clearing mentally, without direct hands-on practice needed.

3. Reiki Master: this practitioner has the same ability as a Level 2 Reiki practitioner, while also having the ability to give other people attunement rituals.

Anyone can become a Reiki practitioner, or Reiki healer. To do so, you would need to train with a “Reiki master” during which a Reiki Master opens energy channels in the trainees body. This is followed by a 21 day self-reiki series. There’s no national certifying exam or state licensing requirements.

DISCLAIMER: This article is not intended to treat, or diagnose and medical conditions, nor is it a replacement for mental health or medical treatment. If you or someone you know is in need of clinical support, our team is able to provide therapy services to those in NJ and FL. Contact us to learn more. If you or someone you know is in need of immediate support please contact emergency services. U.S. Mental health crisis line: dial 988 ; medical emergency dial 911

Resources:

• What Is Reiki Therapy? Medically Reviewed by Michael W. Smith, MD, MBA, CPT on August 24, 2021 Written by Evan Starkman https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/reiki-overview