So, what is Reiki?
The simplest way to describe Reiki is this: it’s a practice that supports the natural flow of energy through the energetic body. Reiki originated in Japan in the 1920s, founded by Mikao Usui after a profound awakening experience during a retreat on Mt. Kurama. From that moment, the system known as Usui Reiki Ryoho began.
Reiki is a hands-on (or just-above-the-body) healing practice that works with life force energy to encourage peace, balance and deep relaxation. By placing their hands over specific areas of the body—often near major energy centers—a Reiki practitioner helps guide and support the free flow of energy within the client.
Since its beginnings, Reiki has steadily grown in popularity. As more practitioners deepen their practice, many find that their awareness expands as well. It’s not uncommon for people to discover new sensitivities or intuitive perceptions—whether that’s seeing, hearing, or simply knowing things beyond the usual five senses.
What is a Reiki session like?
If you’re new to Reiki, it’s completely normal to experience some apprehension. Most people come in wondering things like, “Will it hurt?” or “How will I know if anything is happening?” These questions are expected —and very common. (I know I thought the same before I started my reiki training a couple of years ago!)
A typical Reiki session lasts anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes, depending on your needs and the flow of the session. You’ll be fully clothed, lying comfortably on a massage table or seated in a chair. The setting is intentionally calm and low-stimulation—soft lighting, gentle music (I’m a fan of gentle classical piano or solfeggio frequencies) and space for your system to settle.
So, what does it actually feel like?
The honest answer (and the slightly frustrating one) is: it depends. Reiki lands differently for everyone because we each experience energy in our own way. Sensitivity, intuition, nervous system patterns, and how your higher self communicates all play a role.
Some people begin to notice:
gentle warmth or coolness
tingling or subtle waves of movement
a sense of heaviness sinking into the table
lightness, like parts of the body are lifting
spaciousness in the mind
emotional release
visual imagery—colors, shapes, scenes, or symbolic messages
a deep, unexpected sense of peace
Others don’t “feel” much during the session but notice the difference afterward: clearer thinking, a lighter emotional load, more grounded presence, or simply feeling more like themselves. For me, as a practitioner, I feel warmth and tingling in the center of my hands and feet. When I receive, most often (again, for me), it is like a pulling sensation or what I imagine the gentle cycle of your washing machine might feel like in the areas of my energy body that could use some clearing.
There’s no “right” way to experience Reiki. Your body and energy know what to do, and the session meets you exactly where you are.
Afterward, most people feel relaxed, calm or settled. Some feel reflective or more attuned to their emotions. Occasionally, there’s a sense of release—like something that had been sitting heavy finally let go. Sometimes, the release can bring tears to your eyes and crying feels most natural. All of these experiences are normal and possibly something that was needed.
A note on safety and care
Reiki is generally a gentle, calming practice and most people leave feeling lighter or more settled. You should not experience a worsening mood, increasing depression, thoughts of harming yourself or any unusual physical pain. If anything like this comes up during or after a session, please let your practitioner know and reach out to your healthcare or mental health provider right away.
Your healthcare team should be aware of all the ways you support your well-being so they can partner with you in your healing. Reiki is not a replacement for medical or mental health treatment—but it can be a meaningful complement to the care you’re already receiving.
At its core, Reiki is a calm, supportive space for your system to settle and realign. If you feel called to learn more—or simply want to try a session- feel free to reach out or schedule a session to experience it firsthand. I’d be honored to save space for you in your exploration of this fulfilling practice.
~ A