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  2. What to Expect During Your First Reiki Session: A Guide for Reiki Beginners

New to Reiki and wondering what to expect during your session? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re just considering booking your first session or have already scheduled one, this guide is here to help clear the fog. Together, we’ll explore everything from how Reiki works to what to expect during and after your Reiki session. So, get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing as we explore the life-changing world of Reiki!

 

Hands held palms-up towards the sun, symbolizing the channeling of Reiki energy through the hands.

How does Reiki work?

Reiki is a gentle yet powerful healing practice based on the Eastern concept of Qi, which is the energy that sustains all living beings. When the flow of Qi becomes blocked or impaired, it may result in physical or mental illnesses or other life problems, such as financial issues.

 

Reiki practitioners act as conduits for Reiki’s Divine energy to promote well-being and restore the flow of Qi. They transfer this energy to you through their hands in various positions, allowing it to flow freely and restore balance to your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

 

In addition to its healing benefits, Reiki can also leave you feeling deeply relaxed and calm by removing energy blocks and promoting mindfulness. Think of it as a soothing alternative to acupuncture, allowing you to connect with your body’s natural healing abilities and restore the flow of your life.

 

  

Where does Reiki energy come from?

Reiki’s energy is believed to tap into the energy of the Universe that flows through everything, originating from a transcendent part of our being. As explained by Reiki.org, the energy flows into the patient through the practitioner’s hands, appearing to come down from above. This powerful and gentle reminder of our own healing energy can promote balance and healing in the physical, emotional, and spiritual realms. 

 

 

 

 

How are Reiki treatments done?

Typically, during an in-person Reiki session, you’ll lie down fully clothed on a massage table. Your chosen practitioner will place their hands on or just above your body in specific energy locations. A session typically lasts about 50 minutes and involves a series of 12 to 15 different hand positions, each promoting the balance and flow of your energy channels. 

 

What sets Reiki apart from other touch therapies is the absence of pressure, massage, or any physical adjustments. Rather, the practitioner channels energy to promote relaxation and healing without physically manipulating the body. 

 

 

Online vs in-person Reiki sessions

Can’t make it to an in-person session? No worries, online Reiki sessions are just as effective. Here’s a comparison of what you can expect between in-person and online Reiki sessions. 

  

In-Person Reiki sessions

Typically, an in-person Reiki session begins with a conversation with your practitioner, where you can share your concerns or specific areas you’d like them to focus on. You’ll then lie down fully clothed on a massage table in a peaceful environment while the practitioner guides the flow of energy using gentle touch or hands hovering above your body. A session typically lasts about 50 minutes and involves a series of 12 to 15 different hand positions. 

 

Virtual Reiki sessions

Reiki has adapted to the changing times, and now you can enjoy the benefits of Reiki from the comfort of your home. With advanced symbols and personalized guided meditations, Reiki practitioners can offer distant sessions that are just as effective as in-person treatments. 

 

In a virtual Reiki session, your practitioner will start by having a conversation with you to understand any emotional, physical, or spiritual challenges you may be facing. Based on this information, they can identify and release any energy blockages that may be contributing to those issues. The session typically includes a guided meditation, during which your practitioner uses a Distant symbol to send Reiki energy from a distance. This can last anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. 

 

 

Session atmosphere

During your Reiki session, your practitioner will strive to create a peaceful and relaxing environment, whether you’re meeting in person or online. They’ll want you to feel comfortable and at ease, so you can fully experience the healing energy of Reiki. This means your session will be held in a private, comfortable, and peaceful location.

 

For virtual sessions, you can do your part by creating your own peaceful space at home. This can include dimming the lights, using relaxing aromas such as essential oils, or playing soft, calming music to enhance the ambiance. Make sure your space is clean, free of clutter, and as quiet as possible. It’s also a good idea to ensure you won’t be disturbed during your session – this might mean silencing your phone, asking others in your home to give you privacy, or even placing a ‘do not disturb’ sign on your door. Remember, the goal is to create an environment where you can fully relax and make the most of your session.

 

 

 

 

How much does a Reiki session cost?

The concept of applying a fee for something as selfless as healing energy is often difficult for practitioners. However, we tend to value things more when we invest our hard-earned money into them. This is akin to sticking with a workout routine after purchasing a gym membership or savoring a high-priced meal. We can understand Reiki through a similar lens.

 

Believe it or not, the average cost of Reiki has significantly decreased over the past hundred years, opening doors for more people to tap into its healing potential. The charges of most practitioners align with those of local massage therapists. The range is usually between $75 to $240 per session, with the variation in price reflecting the practitioner’s lineage and their level of experience.

 

 

How to prepare for your Reiki session

You absolutely don’t have to do anything special to prepare for your Reiki session. Your practitioner will be able to work with you no matter what state you’re in. However, taking a little extra time to care for yourself, if you’re able, may help you get even more out of your session. 

 

So, try to nourish your mind, body, and soul with rest, movement, and nourishing foods. And remember, there’s no pressure to do anything beyond what you can manage. If all you do on the day of your session is get out of bed, that’s okay too! 

But if you’re looking for some more tips to help you get the most out of your Reiki session, you can check out our previous blog post: 10 Simple Practices to Extend Your Post-Reiki Glow

 

What does Reiki feel like?

At its core, Reiki is a deeply personal experience that can vary greatly from person to person. During a Reiki session, some clients may experience sensations such as warmth or tingling, while others may not feel any physical changes at all. And while these sensations can be a sign that the energy is flowing and promoting healing, they’re not necessary for the treatment to be effective. 

 

However, what is consistent across all Reiki sessions is the sense of relaxation and inner peace that they create. Some clients even describe feeling a gentle, soothing energy travelling through their body. So, no matter what Reiki feels like for you, it’s important to keep an open mind, let go of expectations, and trust in the healing power of Reiki to work its magic on you.  

 

 

 

What to expect after your reiki session

After your Reiki session, you may notice a sense of relief from physical, mental, or emotional challenges and symptoms that have been holding you back. You might feel a renewed sense of energy and vitality, or a profound sense of inner peace and calm. You may even feel a subtle but powerful sense of growth and healing that continues to unfold long after your session has ended.

 

The most important thing is to keep an open mind and trust that you are exactly where you need to be. Remember that you decided to try Reiki for a reason, and trust in the Universe or your Higher Power to guide you on your healing journey. You’re in the right place. And with each session, you’ll move closer to a sense of balance and well-being.

 

 

How long do the effects of Reiki last?

If you’re in generally good health, the effects of a Reiki session may last for several weeks or even up to a month. But if you’re dealing with chronic pain, illness, or emotional concerns such as anxiety or depression, more frequent Reiki sessions may be needed to help manage your symptoms and provide relief.

 

To prolong the benefits of Reiki, it’s recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle and prioritize self-care. For more tips on how to extend the effects of Reiki after your session, check out our blog post by clicking here – It’s a great resource for maximizing the healing benefits of your treatments.

 

 

 

How often should you receive Reiki treatments?

How often you should receive Reiki treatments depends on your unique needs and preferences. Some people may find weekly treatments beneficial, while others may only require treatments once or twice a month. Your Reiki practitioner will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that supports your healing goals.

 

Remember that the effects of Reiki can be subtle and accumulate over time, so regular treatments can lead to deeper and longer-lasting benefits. However, the greatest benefits come from daily self-practice. And lucky for you, with just your Reiki Levels 1 & 2 training, you can practice Reiki on yourself and tap into your body’s natural healing abilities. 

 

 

 

 

Connect with a Reiki Practitioner

Regular Reiki treatments can have a powerful impact on your overall health and wellbeing, providing deep relaxation, stress relief, and a sense of inner peace. And when you work with a qualified and skilled Reiki practitioner, you can experience the many benefits of this gentle yet powerful healing practice on a regular basis. So why wait? Book your next Reiki session today and start your Reiki journey! 

 

Connect with one of our experienced Reiki practitioners today!