Reiki Frequently Asked Questions
If you are new to Reiki, curious about energy healing, or simply wondering how it can help you, please review our frequently asked questions below.
What is Reiki?
Usui Reiki is a Japanese energy-based healing practice developed in the early 20th century by Mikao Usui. The word translates as "universal life-force energy"— the vital energy believed to flow through all living beings.
Practitioners connect with and channel this energy using gentle touch or by holding their hands slightly above the body's energy centers (chakras) to support your body's natural self-healing response.
What are your credentials and experience?
- Certified Reiki Master since 2012
- Sound Healing Practitioner
- 1,500+ sessions completed at Live Well Reiki
What makes these sessions unique?
Every session is personalized to meet you where you are. Depending on your needs—whether you want to quiet your mind, release emotions, reduce anxiety, or simply relax— I combine Usui Reiki, chakra balancing, guided relaxation, meditation, and visualization.
What happens during a session?
We begin with a brief discussion about your goals (e.g., stress relief, inner calm).
You remain fully clothed on a comfortable massage table. Sessions are conducted through light touch or hands held just above the body, always respecting your comfort level.
What does Reiki feel like?
Experiences vary. Physical sensations can include temperature shifts, tingling, pulsing, energy movement, deep relaxation, or a sense of peace.
Others experience emotional release or mental imagery. Many people describe the experience as an opportunity to step away from daily stress and enter a state of deep rest.
What if I don't feel anything or struggle with visualization?
That is completely normal. You do not need to feel energy or visualize images to participate in or enjoy a Reiki session.
If visualization doesn't come naturally, I utilize alternative guided approaches engaging your senses, breath, and awareness.
Why do people fall asleep?
Falling asleep is common and can be a natural response to the quiet, relaxing environment. There is no need to stay awake throughout your session.
Do I need to believe in Reiki, or is it a religion?
No. Reiki is not a religion, and no specific belief system is required.
You can be fully skeptical and still enjoy the experience—we only ask that you remain open to the process.
Can Reiki help with specific issues?
Reiki is commonly used as a complementary wellness practice for:
- Stress and Overwhelm: Provides intentional time to pause and quiet the mind.
- Emotional Healing: Offers a supportive space for reflection during grief, transitions, or heartbreak.
- Chakra Balancing: Encourages awareness of your physical, emotional, and energetic state.
- Sleep: Encourages deep relaxation that may support healthy sleep routines.
What are the commonly reported benefits?
- Promotes relaxation and reduces perceived stress
- Provides a restorative wellness experience
- May help ease feelings of anxiety and discomfort
- Encourages emotional clarity and self-awareness
Experiences and outcomes vary, and Reiki is not a substitute for medical treatment.
How often should I receive Reiki?
It depends on your personal needs. Some clients book occasional sessions for a reset, while others integrate weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly sessions into their wellness routine to build ongoing self-awareness and resilience.
I recommend trying an initial session first so we can determine a plan that feels right for you.
Is Reiki safe and recognized in healthcare?
Reiki is generally considered a gentle, non-invasive complementary wellness practice. It is offered in some integrative healthcare settings alongside standard medical care to support relaxation and overall well-being.
Please note: Reiki is a complementary practice, not a replacement for medical care, therapy, or prescribed medications.
Scientific research surrounding Reiki and other biofield therapies
For those interested in learning more about Reiki and biofield therapies, we recommend exploring Phenomena Healing and their podcast episodes discussing research associated with institutions such as Harvard, Columbia, and MD Anderson.
Scientific research into Reiki is ongoing, and evidence for specific medical benefits remains limited.