Reiki healing: the energy therapy that’s making a resurgence
In recent years, Reiki has gained notoriety in the wellness scene as a relaxing way to rebalance both your body and energy. Champions of the therapy say it increases vitality and soothes the psyche, with years of practice leaving behind many happy clients. Coming from the Japanese word for “universal energy,” Reiki was developed as a form of hands-on therapy back in 20th century Japan.
Recently, the practice has even been adopted by some NHS branches as a form of alternative therapy, similar to homoeopathy and meditation. With all the buzz surrounding the practice, how does it work–and will you leave with your energy realigned?
We spoke with Jasmine Harsono, Reiki practitioner and founder of wellbeing company Emerald and Tiger, to learn more about how the century-old process works.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF REIKI?
In Harsono’s experience, Reiki offers a plethora of both physical and mental health benefits. Many individuals who have experienced the Reiki process report that it’s deeply relaxing, and Harsono believes that the practice can also reduce blood pressure, improve sleep, and detox the body, among other benefits.
“Reiki supports the mind, body, and spirit,” Harsono explained. “When they are out of balance, physical and mental symptoms can occur. A lot of mental health symptoms stem from lifestyle and life experience. Reiki helps in the reduction of stress, anxiety, and depression.”
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO PREPARE FOR REIKI?
Since you’ll be lying still for roughly an hour, Harsono recommends that you dress comfortably, avoid wearing any heavy jewellery and eat a light meal prior to the session. Reiki is a treatment without any prerequisites, but it is recommended that clients come with an open mind.
“I will suggest to drink plenty of water, to eat well, and to refrain from any alcohol and caffeine at least a few days before and after the session,” Harsono said. “Bring along a notepad as there may be feelings, emotions, and messages that arise that the client may want to jot down.”
WHAT DOES A STANDARD REIKI SESSION LOOK LIKE?
The length of sessions can vary by the practitioner, but generally run between 45-90 minutes. At Emerald and Tiger, clients are offered rosebud tea or water before treatment and asked to lay fully-clothed (sans shoes) on a massage bed. If you’re going in for your first Reiki session, it’s recommended you leave any heavy jewellery or uncomfortable clothes at home–this is all about relaxation.
“I will begin by guiding the client through a short energy breathing exercise to allow the body and mind to settle into the safe space that surrounds them,” Harsono said. “For the first session, I will begin to share Reiki by placing my hands gently on or over the body, starting from the crown of the head.
I work my way through all the primary energy centres–seven main chakras–alleviating any blockages, and tension held physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.”
WHAT DOES THE REIKI EXPERIENCE FEEL LIKE?
Every session will feel slightly different based on what the client needs, but Harsono explained that clients will often fall into an enlightening meditative state.
“They may feel warm and tingly, see colours, receive messages, memories and visions or feel nothing at all, experience varies, but Reiki is present and flowing,” Harsono said. “Sessions are always insightful; they are generally calming and relaxing. They can be energising, uplifting and empowering.
“There is a considerable relief when letting go of stagnant energy, tension and blockages alleviate from the mind, body and soul. Treatments may make clients feel emotional, and connected to their truth, passions and purpose.”
WHO IS REIKI FOR?
Harsono recommends Reiki to all age groups with no restrictions, noting that the practice can also be done from a distance. Since there is no physical aspect to the therapy, individuals of all abilities can undergo a Reiki session.
“There are so many benefits to Reiki,” Harsono said. “I trust that it will always support someone for their highest good. Whether they are feeling depleted, unwell, have low self-worth or are having the best time and period of their life, it will always benefit.”
HOW MANY TIMES SHOULD YOU ATTEND REIKI TO GET THE MAXIMUM THERAPEUTIC BENEFIT?
If you have a busy schedule, don’t fret; while Harsono recommends regular Reiki treatments once or twice a month, single sessions are still purported to be beneficial. After the first session, Harsono allows “Reiki to guide wherein the body, mind and spirit need care and attention,” so your energy will only strengthen with every passing session.
