Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by “laying on hands” and is based on the idea that an unseen “life force energy” flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one’s “life force energy” is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy.

What to do before your Reiki session:

1.Relax and reflect

Give yourself at least 30 minutes prior to the session to sit and reflect. Check in with how your body is feeling and take note of any emotions, thoughts, or physical sensations you are experiencing.  Take some time to breathe and tend to whatever your body’s needs might be on that given day. You may also want to reflect on any intentions you want to set for your session, and anything you want to share with your practitioner before you begin.

 2.Eat and hydrate

You’ll want to be sure you’ve eaten and hydrated a few hours before the session—mostly so you will be comfortable and not distracted by hunger or thirst.

Avoid eating a heavy meal beforehand, however, as you don’t want all of your body’s energy to be directed toward digesting while you’re receiving your treatment.

3.Get comfortable

For most, I will have you laying down on your back on the massage bed for your session. But, since comfort is key if you want to be open to taking on and integrating the Reiki energy, we can make any adjustments necessary to ensure your comfort. If the position you are in for your session is uncomfortable in any way, communicate this to me at ANY time during the session, as I want to be sure you are as relaxed as possible. You will not disturb me, this session is ALL ABOUT YOU! 

Be sure you are wearing comfortable clothing. No Smart watches on during the session and phones MUST be on SILENT..

You’ll also want to use the restroom before the session. 

What to do after your Reiki session:

1.Integrate

Many of the benefits of Reiki can occur soon after the session ends. As such, it’s important to find somewhere quiet and relaxing to integrate what may arise. I recommend that my clients take at least 15-20 minutes after the session to meditate, lie down, go for a walk in nature, or even take a nap. Try not to book or schedule anything immediately after your session.

2.Eat and hydrate (again!)

It’s important to hydrate after doing any type of energy work. Be sure to drink 1-2 glasses of water after your session,

Energy work is often hungry work, and you may find yourself feeling hungry immediately after your session too. Be sure you listen to your body and choose a healthy snack or meal afterward if needed. Eating can also help ground the body and as a bonus, you may find that piece of dark chocolate tastes extra good after energy work.

3.Reflect

It’s often helpful to spend some time after the session reflecting—whether that means journaling, drawing, or somehow capturing any insights you had during the experience.

You may also decide to meditate afterward or listen to calming and/or inspirational music. Whatever you choose to do, find an activity that helps you connect to what you’ve experienced so you can draw on it in future.

4.Contact your practitioner if challenges arise

Reiki is extremely gentle and yet, since energy blockages are being cleared in the body during a session, discomfort can arise.  Contact me if anything feels physically or emotionally painful after your session.