Welcome to our second post!
Before we begin exploring various topics on this platform, I believe it is essential to first explain the basics of Reiki and the energy related facts that surround it.
While I realize that my explanation can only scratch the surface of this vast subject - because the intricacies of energy are beyond our complete comprehension - I will do my best to address some questions people often have.
Of course, this is just my perspective on the explanation. Like any practice, it’s best understood through personal experiences rather than simply reading about it. The takeaways and benefits are always personal and unique to each individual, which, in my view, makes it all the more beautiful!
Understanding Energy within Science
Since Reiki is fundamentally based on "energy," it’s essential to remind ourselves of the significance and role of this energy in our lives.
Einstein famously stated that "everything is energy," a concept supported by his Theory of Relativity and the well-known equation E=mc², which highlights the interchangeability of mass and energy. By breaking down this theory, we can conclude that energy and mass are two manifestations of the same entity, emphasizing that all matter is fundamentally energy. This applies to both living and non-living matter.
What is Reiki
Reiki, based on the same principle that "everything is energy," derives its name from the Japanese words ‘Rei,’ meaning ‘universal,’ and ‘Ki,’ meaning ‘life energy.’
Together, these terms reflect the concept of a universal life force energy that is vital for existence. It is a form of energy therapy that has its origins in Japan during the early 20th century. This “Ki” in Japanese is similar to what we refer to as “Qi” or “chi” in Chinese or “Prana” in Sanskrit, and it is the very life force or energy that is harnessed during mindful practices such as Tai Chi, Qigong, acupuncture, yoga, martial arts, pranayama, and so on. It works with the unseen yet ever-pervasive universal life force (or energy) that flows through all living beings and is essential for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
The Flow of Energy in our lives
It is common to experience that when life force energy is high, fluid, and flowing freely, individuals experience good health, harmony, balance, and a sense of being centered or grounded. Conversely, when this energy is low, blocked, or stagnant, individuals may feel stress, worry, anxiety, and even physical ailments.
Energetic congestion can occur due to several reasons, such as (but not limited to) everyday stress or anxiety; past or childhood traumas; any unpleasant, unresolved, or negative experiences or emotions; traumas within families; physical injuries, and so on. These tend to stagnate in the body, and over time, this stagnated energy causes congestion, blockages, or even illness.
Reiki is a practice that helps to clear these energetic congestions and blockages and allows stagnated energy to flow smoothly. In Hinduism or Tantric/yogic concepts, this free-flowing energy can often be referred to as Kundalini energy. Reiki helps in activating our own energy, strengthening our connection with the universal life force, thus removing the presence of energetic imprints and residues of negative thought forms, emotions, issues, challenges, anxiety, illness, injury, and so on.
While Reiki does not change your reality, it does eliminate the low-vibration energetic components present in your physical, mental, and emotional systems. This creates space for positive energies to exist, flourish, and thrive, ultimately fostering a more positive outlook aligned with your intuition, free from fears and limiting beliefs. Reiki empowers clients to change their own reality and manifest a life that aligns with the highest version of their true selves.
It’s worth mentioning that Reiki does not promote or affiliate itself with any specific religion. Instead, it operates with the force that underlies all life itself, making it accessible to anyone, regardless of their spiritual or religious beliefs.
What actually happens during a session?
During a Reiki session, I, as the practitioner, gently place my hands on or near specific energy points, commonly known as “chakras,” to promote the flow of energy in the client’s body. The duration of the energy flow is approximately 45-60 minutes. The universal energy is channeled through me, which means that the Reiki practitioner does not give or transfer their own energy to the client; rather, serve as a channel, tuning into universal energy and directing it to the client (imagine water flowing through a pipe—the pipe represents the channel). The energy transferred is always of the highest good and is initiated by the practitioner being in a state of true integrity.
Distance Healing vs. In-Person Treatments
Distance healing and in-person Reiki are not different in terms of effects and benefits, as healing occurs through energy, which we all know has no boundaries and is free from the limitations of space, time, or dimensions.
The process is the same in both; energy is channeled through the practitioner to the client, except that during distance healing, instead of placing my hands directly on the client’s body, I send the energy remotely. While it is not essential for clients to lie down during a distance healing session, doing so can be beneficial. During distance healing, I share the insights from the session via PDF. I also sometimes connect via video call. Although follow-up via call isn’t mandatory, many clients find it helpful to strengthen their connection to the treatment. Ultimately, healing begins with self-initiated efforts.
Single Treatment vs. Recurring Sessions
When we talk about the number of treatments, it is best to consider Reiki like any other therapy. While one session surely helps give the body and each client a good breakthrough or push, it is up to them to decide if that’s enough or not.
My teacher often says that our soul, or we, are like the center of an onion. Each treatment works on peeling one layer around us at a time, same how most therapies work. The more layers you peel, the closer you get to the center, to your truest self, your soul. Of course, the process of working through and peeling those layers is not easy. Healing takes effort, and discarding old beliefs, behavioral patterns, fears, and thought forms that cause anxiety or stress takes time and continuous, strenuous effort. This is how and when recurring treatments benefit clients. The more layers you peel away, the more you feel connected and aligned with your own centrifugal energy. This creates a compounding effect that provides you with greater strength from within, enabling you to navigate daily situations in a more balanced state. Additionally, it helps you discard old or unserving layers with resilience, patience, and increased positivity.
But again, it is important to emphasize that healing should never be forced or calculation-driven. One must, and most importantly, be drawn to resolving or addressing those blockages at their own pace. As we say, everything in its own time; As the saying goes, everything in its own time; events occur according to universal divine timing and everyone feels inclined to pursue one, or multiple treatments based on their instinct. Listening to your intuition is of utmost importance always.
Conclusion
Routing back to the laws of science as we conclude, the law of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed; it only changes form. When we find ourselves out of harmony, it’s beneficial to assess potential blockages. Each thought & experience carries unique energy, and we accumulate a significant amount of this daily without realizing it. Over time, this buildup can become unhealthy, particularly when it involves unresolved emotions or unconscious behavioural patterns. By understanding how energy flows and accumulates, we can redirect our focus toward what we truly want and need. Where focus goes, energy flows, and we shape our lives by what we choose to concentrate on.
Supporting the "flow" of energy in our lives can lead to a more harmonious and fulfilling existence. By focusing on our aspirations, releasing blockages, and nurturing positive thoughts through gratitude, we can create a vibrant life that aligns with our true selves. Recognizing the importance of healing paves way for our transformation.
I thank you for joining me on this journey!