Reiki

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a traditional Japanese bodywork technique in which a trained practitioner lightly places their hands on or just above various parts of a person’s body. They often focus particularly around the head and torso, and might hold their hands in one place for several minutes at a time. A typical Reiki session will begin with a brief conversation before the actual placing of hands on or above the body occurs. Sessions are usually conducted with the person lying face up and fully clothed, and can last between half an hour and ninety minutes.

Some people in the psychiatric drug withdrawal community have found Reiki helpful in relieving feelings of stress, anxiety, pain, despair and muscle tension. Others report that Reiki has helped increase their vitality and general well-being. 

Where can I find more information?

• No special qualifications are required to learn Reiki. The website of the International Association of Reiki Professionals helps you search for Reiki teachers and practitioners in your area.
   
• The introductory page of the International Association of Reiki Professionals.
   
• A report by the National Center for Complimentary Medicine and Integrative Health’s (NCCIH) that includes summaries of research and safety findings on Reiki.

The painting at the center of the image is Healing Hands by Barbara Lea/A border has been added to the image.