Reiki massage is a gentle form of energy work that was developed in Japan by Dr. Mikao Usui in 1922. Usui fasted and meditated on a mountain top for three weeks. During that time he discovered a way to heal by channeling energy from the universe.
The word reiki is actually the combination of two Japanese words. Rei means higher power and ki means life energy.
Practitioners of reiki massage believe that low life force energy causes sickness. The practitioner works to balance your levels of energy. This can be done without depleting the practitioner's own energy. Instead of sending their own energy into a client, the practitioner is channeling energy from the universe.
Reiki can be used to treat all kinds of physical and emotional problems. It's safe and easy to learn. Many people learn to practice it every year.
During a reiki session, you lay on a mat or massage table fully clothed. The practitioner lays his hands on various areas of your body to balance your energy.
Some schools of reiki teach that there are specific areas the practitioner must lay hands on and others teach that the practitioner will intuitively know where to place his hands.
Because this is a form of energy work, much like therapeutic touch, the practitioner doesn't even have to touch you to work on you. The therapist can just hold his hands above your body.
Sometimes distance sessions are given. During a distance session you are asked to make a comfortable relaxing environment in your home and the therapist will send you energy from another location at an appointed time.
Reiki is very relaxing and usually takes place in a cozy, relaxing environment. Many practitioners couple the treatment with aromatherapy.
Some people say that they can feel the movement of the energy during a session. Others say that they feel very comfortable and at ease during a session. Everyone is different. The only way to know how you'll feel is to try it and see.
