The word Reiki means 'Universal Energy'. Eastern systems of medicine have always recognised and worked with this energy.

It has various names but free flow of this energy is believed to be the basis of well-being. All traditional and modern forms of energy therapy such as acupuncture, reiki, EFT are believed to work by stimulating clearance of energy blocks and allowing the natural healing mechanisms to work.

Reiki is experienced as a flow of energy, mild tingling, warmth, coolness, other sensations, or nothing at all.

Reiki is a non-invasive, non-diagnostic, non-interventionist and non-manipulative holistic therapy - so it should be a restful and calming experience. Reiki is practiced through light or no touch and no substances are ingested. Reiki does not address any disease or symptom directly and does not interfere with medical treatment.

What are the Benefits?

Patients report that Reiki has a calming effect and that the beneficial effects may be felt for several days.

Reiki is a complementary therapy that may be used with confidence alongside orthodox healthcare, and being a gentle treatment it can be used safely with most people, regardless of age or frailty.

Illness is often a time of great stress. Reiki can help by encouraging a sense of emotional well-being. Reiki is used in various settings including private practice, complementary therapy centres, GP surgeries, hospitals, hospices, cancer support groups, post-operative recovery, drug rehabilitation, prisons, HIV/AIDS centres, and in the care of the elderly. There are no known medical contraindications to Reiki sessions.

What Happens During A Session?

The recipient lies on the treatment couch fully clothed, covered by a blanket as required. You will be asked to remove your shoes and glasses; perhaps loosen tight belts. There will usually be music playing to help with relaxation.

The practitioner places their hands on or above you, non-intrusively, in a series of positions, each held for several minutes. This allows healing energy to flow into you, enabling your energy system to balance itself, release stress and promote your body's natural ability to heal itself.

Usually the treatment starts at the shoulders and head, working down to the feet, and takes about an hour. Recipients may notice warmth, tingling or coolness from the practitioner's hands, or maybe nothing but a profoundly calming effect, and some people fall deeply asleep.

After treatment, listen to your body and allow the energy to continue to work after the session ends. Drink plenty of water and rest if you feel tired. The beneficial effects may be felt for several days.

Sometimes emotional releases occur - laughter or tears - during or after the treatment. All this is quite normal, it's a positive part of healing and you will feel better afterwards. Reiki will only work for the person's highest good and therefore can do no harm.

Safety

Reiki is NOT an alternative to conventional medicine. You must not change the dose of any prescribed medications or treatments without consulting your GP or specialist first.

You should always consult a GP first about acute or infectious conditions, and in connection with problems of an urgent nature.

Reiki is not a religion: there is no requirement to believe in any religion or even in Reiki itself, it works anyway.

How Often do I Need to Have a Treatment?

A single Reiki session may make a difference. However, the effect of Reiki is cumulative and a course of regular treatments may be more effective. These can be weekly, fortnightly or less often, as requested by the client. Many clients like to 'top up' the benefits on a monthly basis after their initial course of treatments.