What You Need to Know About the Healing Practice of Reiki

Whether you've experienced reiki or not, you've certainly heard about it (I mean, at least if you've been reading Sweety High).

Most of our editors have tried the holistic healing practice at least once, and we're big proponents of the concept. Therefore, we want to share it with you! But we're nowhere near experts when it comes to this spiritual practice, so we enlisted the help of someone who specializes in this field.

Keep reading for the basics you need to know about reiki, straight from Jenny Deveau, Creative Director & Practitioner at Venice, California's Mystic Journey Crystals.

(Dynasty Electrik photo by Leah Lau Art)

Sweety High: In your words, what is reiki and why is it important for everyone?

Jenny Deveau: Reiki is a holistic healing technique. The practitioner uses light touch or floats the hands above the recipient's body, to help stimulate natural healing processes. Acting as a channel for energy, the practitioner can help balance the physical body, emotions and mental states. Most people feel relaxed & rejuvenated after a reiki session.

Reiki can be used to heal and balance ourselves, others, animals, the earth, water, food, crystals, situations.

SH: If someone feels the effects of reiki (on a small or large scale), what are some of the things they are likely to experience (physically and emotionally)?

JD: It's common to experience tingling vibrations, numbness and sleepiness during a reiki session. The practitioners hands may feel hot. One might experience an emotional release, such as crying or feelings of elation. In some cases, extreme fatigue, flu-like symptoms and digestive issues can be experienced after a session. This is the body's way of clearing your system. Be sure to engage in proper self-care.

(Photo courtesy of Jenny Duveau)

SH: What causes someone to feel or not feel the effects of a reiki session?

JD: Subtle energy is experienced in different ways. Some people are visually sensitive and may see colors or patterns with the eyes closed. Others may hear buzzing or vibrations or feel changes in temperature or pressure. The more awareness you have of these sensations, the more likely you are to sense reiki energy. Fatigue, hunger, pain, or feeling too hot or cold during the session can affect your ability to notice subtle sensations. The most important thing is how you feel after the session, not necessarily the sensations felt during the session.

If a client doesn't notice any effects after a session, it doesn't necessarily mean it didn't have an effect. Subtle energy is felt in different ways and not everyone has cultivated an awareness of their own subtle energy processes. One may not recognize changes in their mood or energy levels as an effect. Additionally, like any other healing modality, if the client isn't open and receptive to the possibility of healing, effects may not be noticed.

SH: How should someone prepare for a reiki session, and is there anything they should do immediately after?

JD: To prepare for a reiki session, dress comfortably, eat a light snack so you're not distracted by hunger, and arrive early so you feel relaxed and can ease into the experience. After the session, drink plenty of water and spend some quiet time reflecting upon the experience.

SH: Are there any misconceptions about reiki or anything specific you want people to know about it?

JD: Reiki is not associated with any particular religion. Anyone can practice it. Reiki practitioners do not take on the energies of the people they work with, but rather serve as a channel for the individual's own healing process.