Questions
Everything you might want to ask, before you begin
If your question isn’t answered here, write to us — no question is too small.
About Reiki
Receiving Reiki
Twenty of the questions asked most often, answered simply.
01 What is Reiki?
Rei means universal and Ki means life force — together, Reiki is the universal life force energy that moves through all beings. It was founded by Dr Mikao Usui in Japan in the 1920s. The same energy is known in India as prana.
02 How does Reiki work?
A Reiki practitioner channels healing energy to where it is needed, helping restore balance and calm to the body’s own systems.
03 What happens in a Reiki session?
You relax, fully clothed, while gentle energy flows through a sequence of hand placements — either lightly on or just above the body. Distance sessions follow the same structure without physical presence.
04 Who can receive Reiki?
Reiki is safe and beneficial for everyone, at any age.
05 Is Reiki a religion?
No. Reiki is spiritual in nature but is not tied to any belief system, and asks nothing of your faith.
06 What are the benefits of Reiki?
Reiki eases stress, supports the body’s own healing, and nurtures emotional balance.
07 How is Reiki different from meditation or yoga?
Reiki is an energy transfer received from a practitioner, while meditation and yoga are self-practices. They complement one another well.
08 Can Reiki be done at a distance?
Yes. Reiki can be shared remotely with equal effectiveness — many people receive distance sessions while travelling or from another country.
09 Can Reiki be combined with other healing or medical practices?
Yes. Reiki is a complementary, holistic therapy that harmonises with all other care. It works alongside conventional medicine and never in place of it.
10 How long is a Reiki session?
Sessions usually last between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the offering and your needs.
11 How will I feel during Reiki?
Most people feel calm, warm, or deeply relaxed as the energy flows. Some feel gentle tingling; others simply drift.
12 How many Reiki sessions are needed?
It varies. Some people feel the benefit immediately, while others find that regular sessions build a steadier, more lasting shift.
13 Can Reiki help with stress or anxiety?
Reiki gently eases stress and supports emotional peace. It is not a treatment for a diagnosed anxiety disorder — please continue working with your doctor or therapist alongside it.
14 Is Reiki scientifically proven?
Research suggests Reiki supports relaxation and general wellbeing, though findings vary and the evidence base remains limited. It should be understood as a complementary practice rather than a proven medical treatment.
15 What do I need to prepare before a session?
Wear something comfortable, avoid caffeine and heavy meals for a couple of hours beforehand, and arrive with openness. Nothing else is required.
16 What should I expect after a session?
You may feel lighter, calmer and more balanced. Drinking water and allowing yourself a slow hour afterwards helps the session settle.
17 How do I know Reiki is working?
Common signs include a deep sense of calm, better sleep, emotional release, and renewed energy over the following days.
18 Do I need to believe in Reiki for it to work?
No. Reiki flows naturally whether or not you believe. Openness simply helps you receive more fully.
19 How do I choose the right Reiki practitioner?
Trust your comfort, your sense of connection, and your intuition. Feeling safe and unhurried matters more than credentials alone.
20 Is Reiki safe?
Yes. Reiki is gentle, non-invasive and safe for everyone. It does not interfere with medication or medical treatment.
Learning Reiki
Learning to channel it yourself
On levels, lineage, and choosing a teacher you trust.
01 Who can learn Reiki?
Reiki is open to everyone — no prior experience is needed. Anyone with a sincere interest in healing and self-growth can learn.
02 How long does it take to learn Reiki?
- Level I (Shoden) — usually taught over one to two days, focusing on self-healing.
- Level II (Okuden) — often two to three days, expanding to healing others and distance work.
- Level III (Shinpiden / Master) — weeks or months, depending on practice and integration.
03 Which level is right for me?
- Beginner or self-care → Level I
- Helping others, emotional healing → Level II
- Deep spiritual practice or teaching → Level III (Master)
04 What level of the energy field does each stage work on?
- Level I — the physical body and aura: stress relief and relaxation.
- Level II — the emotional and mental layers: patterns, stored experience, clarity.
- Level III — the spiritual dimension: soul alignment and higher awareness.
05 Do I need to believe in Reiki for it to work?
No — Reiki flows naturally whether or not you believe. Openness simply helps you receive more fully.
06 How do I choose the right Reiki teacher?
Look for authenticity, lineage, compassion, and a style that resonates with you. Trust your intuition — feeling safe and understood is the thing that matters.
Please note. Reiki is a complementary holistic therapy and is not a substitute for medical care. If you are unwell or in distress, consult a qualified medical practitioner. See the full disclaimer.