If you’ve been curious about Reiki but aren’t quite sure what to expect, you’re not alone. When I first tried it, I had a mix of excitement and skepticism. What exactly is Reiki, and how would I feel during and after the session?
In this guide, I’m sharing my personal insights and what you can expect when you try Reiki for the first time. It’s all about relaxation, energy healing, and finding your inner peace.
What Happens Before the Reiki Session?
The first step to a successful Reiki session is preparation. And trust me, it’s simpler than you think.
What Should You Wear?
Wear comfortable clothes. No need for fancy attire or changing into anything special – you can stay in whatever you feel at ease in. I always go for layers because you might feel warm or chilly during the session.
What Should You Do Before the Session?
Hydrate. Drink plenty of water before your session. This helps your body process the energy work better. You don’t need to do anything else but relax and be open to the experience.
What Will the Practitioner Ask You?
Expect a brief consultation. The Reiki practitioner will ask you about any areas of discomfort or stress, and you can also share any specific intentions you have. Do you want to feel more relaxed? Maybe you’re dealing with emotional blockages? Setting an intention can help focus the energy during the session.
What Happens During the Reiki Session?
Now, let’s get into the heart of the session. You’ll probably be surprised by how peaceful and calm the process is.
Laying Down and Getting Comfortable
You’ll lie down fully clothed on a padded table or sit in a chair, depending on the session. I personally prefer lying down – it’s so relaxing. The room will likely have soft music and calming lights to help you unwind.
What Will the Practitioner Do?
The practitioner will place their hands lightly on or just above your body in specific positions, usually over areas like your head, shoulders, and torso. Don’t worry; the touch is gentle and non-invasive.
Some people feel warmth or a tingling sensation where the practitioner’s hands are placed. For me, I felt warmth radiating through my body, which felt comforting and soothing.
How Will You Feel?
Everyone’s experience is unique, but don’t be alarmed if you feel deeply relaxed, lightheaded, or even emotional. I’ve seen people tear up during their sessions, myself included. It’s completely normal. Some might even fall asleep!
The goal is to release any negative or stuck energy, so it’s okay to let emotions surface. As for me, I felt like a huge weight lifted off my shoulders – calm, centered, and balanced.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Reiki Session?
Reiki isn’t just about lying back and relaxing for an hour. There are some things you can do to enhance the experience.
- Set an Intention
Think about what you want from the session. Do you need stress relief, emotional healing, or clarity on a particular issue? Setting an intention will help guide the energy in the right direction. I often set an intention to release stress and feel more focused.
- Let Go of Expectations
While it’s good to set an intention, don’t have rigid expectations. Every Reiki session is different. You might feel a deep sense of relaxation, or you might notice subtle shifts in your mood and energy days later. Just trust the process, and let yourself be open to whatever unfolds.
- Practice Deep Breathing
Deep breathing can enhance the benefits of Reiki. It helps you stay present and calms your nervous system. I always find that when I focus on my breath, the session becomes even more grounding.
What Happens After the Reiki Session?
The session doesn’t end once you leave the table. Here’s what you can expect in the hours and days that follow.
Reawakening
After the session ends, the practitioner will gently guide you to wake up. You might feel lightheaded or incredibly relaxed. It’s normal! You’ll probably be in a state of deep calm. Take your time to get up and move slowly.
Hydrate and Rest
Drink plenty of water after the session. Hydration helps your body process the energy shifts. I always feel like I need some quiet time to integrate the experience. Whether it’s a few moments of reflection or a nap, give yourself time to absorb the healing energy.
The Days After
Reiki’s effects unfold gradually. Some people experience what’s known as a “detox” effect, where emotions or physical symptoms may temporarily feel more intense (like tiredness or even headaches). This is your body processing and releasing blockages. For me, after a session, I usually feel lighter and sleep better.
How Long Should You Wait Between Reiki Sessions?
This is a common question, and it varies based on your needs. Some people book Reiki sessions every few weeks, while others may opt for one-off treatments.
If you’re dealing with a specific issue or emotional challenge, more frequent sessions might be helpful. Personally, I go once a month to maintain balance and keep my energy in check.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reiki
1. Will I feel better immediately after a Reiki session?
Not always, and that’s okay! Some people feel immediate relief, while others might notice subtle shifts in mood, energy, or sleep over the next few days. It’s all part of the healing process.
2. Is Reiki safe?
Yes, Reiki is completely safe. It’s a non-invasive, gentle energy healing practice that doesn’t require any physical manipulation. There are no risks involved, and it’s suitable for everyone.
3. Can Reiki help with physical pain?
Reiki can help with pain by promoting relaxation and emotional healing, which can indirectly reduce discomfort. While it’s not a substitute for medical treatment, many people report feeling better after Reiki sessions, especially in terms of stress relief and emotional balance.
4. Do I need to “believe” in Reiki for it to work?
Nope! Reiki doesn’t require belief to be effective. Even if you’re skeptical, you can still experience the calming and balancing effects of the session.
The Reiki Mindset: You’re Worth the Peace
Reiki is a powerful, yet gentle way to take care of your body, mind, and spirit. The beauty of it is that there’s no right or wrong way to experience it. Whether you’re looking to relieve stress, gain clarity, or just take a moment to relax, Reiki can offer that and so much more.
My personal advice? Don’t overthink it. Just go in with an open heart, and let the energy do its magic. You’ll be surprised by how it shifts your mindset and overall well-being.
