HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR REIKI SESSION
WHAT IS REIKI?
Reiki is a holistic form of energy healing with origins in Japan that works with the universal life energy believed to surround and connect everything and everyone. It helps restore physical and emotional sense of wellness by activating the body’s natural healing processes based on the understanding and treatment of the body's energy system. A practitioner will channel this energy and direct it into the body’s energetic field and centers to facilitate relaxation and healing. Treatment is gentle, non-invasive and can be performed by light touch, no touch at all, or even at a long distance (see section on Distance Reiki below.) The focus is on stress reduction and to promote relaxation, however, Reiki will often work with a person as a whole with the potential to heal at the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels.
Research studies have shown proven results on its efficacy and hundreds of hospitals worldwide now offer treatment in a medical setting. Here are just some of the top US medical institutions that have integrated this ancient practice.
HOW LONG WILL MY IN-PERSON SESSION BE?
Sessions can last anywhere between 60 to 90 minutes in duration for in-person visits, and up to 45 minutes for distance. If it is your very first visit at Alpha Lyrae Healing Arts, set aside at least 2 hours for yourself in case more time is required (no additional charge will be applied.) Your session will typically include an intake which allows you to discuss what it is you are looking to achieve. This is where you can set your intention and ask any questions about the process. During intake is also the best time to raise any issues or concerns you believe may impact treatment.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR? WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
You will be resting on a massage table on your back with shoes/glasses/heavy jewelry removed. Unlike a massage, you will remain fully clothed for the entire session so it is important for you to be comfortable. Stretchy or loose fitting workout or yoga clothing is suggested. You are welcome to bring an eye/sleep mask or request eye coverage. Also bring your water bottle as it is recommended to keep hydrated after energy healing sessions. Cell phones and other devices should be powered off or in do not disturb mode with notifications silenced so there are no interruptions during your session.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A REIKI SESSION? WHAT WILL I FEEL?
During your session I may flow through a series of hand positions beginning at the crown of your head and moving down to the feet and/or I may take a freeform approach focusing in on areas based on what I’m intuitively and energetically sensing. I may also incorporate the use of aromatherapy, crystals, or sound/vibrational therapy by way of carefully curated recorded music, Himalayan singing bowls, other instruments or a combination of all of these things. You are free at any time to request room temperature or volume adjustments, or let me know if something feels uncomfortable for you.
Every individual comes away with their own unique experience. During a session some may feel energy much more strongly than others. Some express feeling warm, cool, magnetic, pulsing or tingling sensations as energy begins to flow more freely. Some feel emotional release while some expressed falling into a deep meditative state accompanied by visions such as vivid colors or geometric patterns.
It is very common for people to feel so relaxed they fall asleep through a portion or the entire duration. It's also possible that you may not experience any of the above mentioned sensations at all. This is perfectly ok and in no way any indication that you are not receiving its full benefits. People come away with uniquely different experiences but deep relaxation is almost always achieved.
POST-SESSION
Although people typically leave a Reiki session feeling refreshed or energized, sometimes they may notice feeling more tired than usual. This is often just the body's natural response, as it begins to restore energetic balance after treatment. People commonly report a sense of calm, mental clarity, and sleeping well after Reiki. It is also possible for the benefits of the healing to unfold gradually as the day or week progresses. Observe for yourself how Reiki makes you feel and whether you find yourself seemingly more relaxed after the session.
It is also recommended that you drink lots of water or herbal tea and proceed more mindfully in regards to your wellness goals.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I RECEIVE TREATMENT?
After trying one session, many go on to schedule a series of sessions. Personal recommendations will vary based on the individual but a minimum of at least 4 sessions spaced out two to three weeks apart is a reasonable amount of time to evaluate the benefits you personally receive from Reiki as a healing modality.
*DISTANCE REIKI
Distance reiki is another option whereby practitioners offer treatment without the recipient physically being present in the same room or geographic location. Yes, the concept is somewhat difficult for many to wrap their heads around. It’s not uncommon for one’s ‘skepto-rometer’ to peak upon learning that transmission of healing energy could be achieved without touch or physical presence. It takes a leap of faith to entertain the idea that energy healing has the potential to transcend space and time. The benefits however are just as equal to those of in-person sessions.
Though remote energy healing has been around for centuries in the far east, Distance Reiki had become the most viable application during the height of the pandemic and remains the preferred method of treatment by clients who struggle with leaving their homes for various physical or non-physical reasons.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR DISTANCE REIKI?
Distance Reiki sessions are typically done in silence during an audio only call. The use of earbuds/headset is recommended with your phone on do-not-disturb once the call is initiated. You will be called at your scheduled appointment time and there will be a brief discussion before you are guided through breathing techniques which serve to help ease you into receiving Reiki.
Before your session, reserve a quiet, comfortable and peaceful space for yourself where you can wind down, lay back and are least likely to be interrupted.
Though not required, you are free to incorporate, candles, essential oils, incense, calming background music, nature sounds or anything else you feel will set an atmosphere that helps foster a meditative mindset.
Set a clear intention beforehand. This may be in the form of a mindful affirmation or mantra. Sometimes, writing down your intention and what it is you wish to address is helpful. Open yourself up further by releasing any expectations or limiting beliefs and let go as best you can, resistance to what was or what may be. Allow yourself to just...be.
After the session is complete you are are welcome to share your experience.
HOW MUCH?
The real hardships endured during unsure and difficult times of job loss and financial instability present a challenge for many who may view Reiki therapy as a luxury. We fully take this into strong consideration. As a Reiki therapist, my top priority above all else is for comfort and relief to be accessible to all.
As such, I have committed to making necessary adjustments to my practice so that I can offer customized payment flexibility options on a case-by-case basis. I am happy to discuss upon request, arrangements to help you minimize inhibitions that could overshadow your ability to access the gifts of Reiki.