Frequently Asked Questions
 

What is Reiki and where did it originate?

In 1922, Dr. Mikao Usui, a Japanese scholar and monk, experienced a profound revelation atop Mount Kurama after 21 days of meditation, where he reportedly received the healing energy known as Reiki, bringing this profound practice to the world. This event marked his enlightenment and deep understanding of life's essence. The term "Reiki," pronounced Ray-Key, originates from Japanese: "Rei" means "Universal Life," representing omnipresent spiritual awareness or wisdom from the higher self, while "Ki" translates to "Energy," the vital force that animates all living things. When the flow of Ki is high, one experiences health, whereas low Ki levels can lead to stress or illness. Reiki functions as a holistic system, harmonizing physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of the individual, promoting natural healing abilities and personal and spiritual growth. It is spiritually guided and not tied to any specific faith or religious practice, offering a safe, gentle, and non-invasive method of energy healing.

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What are Chakras?

Chakras, which are Sanskrit for "wheels," are the connections between our physical and energy bodies. The number of chakra systems varies from 7 to 114, and each one has a distinctive vibrational frequency and healing power. The body's 7 major energy centers, or chakras, are distributed from the base of the spine to the top of the head. Chakras are circular vortexes of energy, and each chakra is linked to a different organ or gland in the body. Different colors, elements, and emotions are also connected to each chakra. The chakras are in charge of distributing life force energy, also known as Qi or Prana. When a chakra is disrupted or obstructed, the flow of life force energy is impeded, resulting in the emergence of mental and physical ailments. When this happens, it can lead to a variety of issues in our lives, including physical, emotional, and mental health issues. When we unblock each chakra separately and achieve harmony between our upper and lower chakras, we can truly heal. The three lower chakras (Root, Sacral, and Solar Plexus), are concerned with the individual self, including our basic wants, feelings, and personal development in regard to the earthly plane. The Heart Chakra is located in the center. It serves as a bridge between our lower and higher energies. It acknowledges both as significant and when in balance, harmonizes them into a greater whole. The Heart Chakra and its attributes of love, insight, courage, and compassion facilitate this alchemy between our earthly and spiritual essences. The three higher chakras (Throat, Third eye, and Crown), on the other hand, deal more with our spiritual nature and our relationship to Spirit and are less personal. They help us become one with the Universe.

 

How may Reiki benefit us?

Reiki has a variety of positive effects on both physical and mental health, including better sleep, a happier mood, and pain alleviation. Reiki promotes relaxation in the body, which may help the body repair damage brought on by stress, injury, or illness. It helps with anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, mental blocks, and speeds up the recovery time of minor colds or wounds, among other things. Reiki energy helps the body release blockages, gently bringing underlying issues to the surface for healing and restoring balance naturally. You may experience a period of cleansing, which might include feeling more emotional, noticing changes in your energy levels, or having vivid dreams. Each person's experience is unique. Some might quickly feel stress relief and deep relaxation, often feeling calm, clear-headed, refreshed, or occasionally drowsy. There is proof that Reiki, utilized as a complementary therapy alongside traditional or mainstream medical care, can aid in post-operative recovery and the management of cancer and AIDS symptoms. Reiki has no known contraindications and can be used in conjunction with any medical intervention. It is not harmful in any way. Reiki has its own intelligence and always serves the recipient's highest good, knowing just where to go and always working in the recipient's best interest. Whatever transpires during your session is appropriate and ideal for you at that precise moment. For example, you may be suffering from hip discomfort, yet the intelligence of Reiki is at work on your foot, which is the true cause of your hip pain.

 

How is Distant Reiki performed?

Distant Reiki operates on the principle that energy is not bound by physical space or time. Similar to how Wi-Fi, radio waves, or cellular signals work, Reiki taps into unseen energetic frequencies, connecting practitioner and recipient beyond physical limits. This connection allows the practitioner to transmit healing energy, regardless of distance. During a distant Reiki session, the practitioner focuses their intention and creates a "space" for healing. They may visualize the recipient’s energy field or use a surrogate, such as a photograph or object representing the recipient. The practitioner directs healing energy to the recipient, often using specific symbols to channel the energy and address physical, emotional, or spiritual imbalances. The effectiveness of distant Reiki relies on the practitioner’s focused intention and the recipient’s openness to receiving the energy. While the practitioner doesn't use their own personal energy, they serve as a conduit for universal life force energy, allowing the recipient to draw in the healing energy they need. Distant Reiki can be just as effective as in-person sessions because energy is not constrained by time or space. The recipient’s energy field is accessible through the practitioner’s focused intention, meaning healing can occur whether the two are in the same room or continents apart. This principle is based on the understanding that everything is connected energetically, allowing Reiki to reach and balance the recipient, wherever they may be.

 

What does Reiki feel like?

During a session, the majority of people report tingling sensations, twitching, stomach rumbling, changes in body temperature, feelings of relaxation, and sleepiness. Some claim to see colors, feel as though they are floating, and feel either light or heavy within their bodies. After a session, you may feel calm and peaceful, or happier, lighter, and invigorated. It is also completely normal not to feel anything at all. It may just take a while longer for your body to process the session. The body will decide what to balance and when. Shifts can occur solely on an energetic level at first, but over time can have physical results as well.

 

How often should I receive Reiki treatment?

The duration of Reiki benefits depends on the individual and the condition being treated. Sometimes an issue can be resolved in only one session. It depends on your unique circumstances and your healing goals. At first, more frequent sessions are recommended, with the frequency gradually decreasing as improvements are noticed. Once you start feeling better, the effects of a session can last from several days to a few weeks. It's important to remember that Reiki is cumulative, so consistent sessions over time can lead to longer-lasting benefits. Working closely with a Reiki practitioner to develop a personalized treatment plan and maintaining consistency are key for achieving the best results. Regular distant Reiki sessions (once or twice a month) are beneficial in terms of preventing or managing existing difficulties. You do not need to be suffering from any ailment to benefit from Reiki. Sessions can assist in keeping the energy pathways open, reducing the chance of illness caused by blocked chakras.

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Can Animal Reiki be performed remotely?

Yes, Animal Reiki can indeed be performed remotely. Reiki energy transcends physical distance, allowing practitioners to connect with animals energetically regardless of their location. Remote Animal Reiki sessions are conducted similarly to in-person sessions, with the practitioner channeling Reiki energy to the animal from a distance. This can be particularly beneficial for animals who may be anxious or stressed by in-person interactions or for situations where physical proximity is not possible, such as with wildlife or animals in shelters.

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How do animals respond to Reiki energy?

Animals are highly sensitive to energy and often respond positively to Reiki. Many animals will exhibit signs of relaxation, such as lying down, closing their eyes, or even falling asleep during a session. Some may release tension through sighing or yawning.

When I offer Reiki, my intention is always for your animal’s highest good, focusing on areas that need support. However, animals are intuitive beings and may choose whether or not to draw in the energy. As a result, the work I do may not always be immediately felt or visible, especially if they are not currently open to receiving it. Animals share a deep connection with their guardians, and sometimes they take on emotional or energetic imbalances as part of this bond. While I generally prefer having the guardian present to create a calm, supportive environment, it's not mandatory if they can't be present.  Every animal is unique, and we honor their individual preference for how they receive the session.

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How can I prepare my pet for an Animal Reiki session?

Before the Animal Reiki session, it's helpful to create a calm and quiet environment for your pet. Animals in enclosures or confined spaces may remain inside. Minimize noise and distractions in the area where the session will take place. Spend some quiet bonding time with your pet beforehand to help them relax and feel comfortable. Additionally, inform your pet about the upcoming session through gentle communication or by setting positive intentions for the experience. Ensure that your pet has access to water and a comfortable resting area during and after the session to support their relaxation and integration of the Reiki energy. It’s recommended for the guardian to be present during the session to offer reassurance and support for the pet, but it’s perfectly fine if they can’t be.