What is Reiki?
In our fast-paced, often overstimulated world, so many of us are craving peace, grounding, and a deeper sense of well-being. Reiki offers a gentle, powerful way to return to that balance — supporting the body, calming the mind, and reconnecting you with your own inner wisdom.
Whether you're curious about what Reiki actually is or considering your first session, this guide will help you understand its roots, how it works, and why so many people are turning to it for healing and restoration.
1. Where Reiki Comes From — and Why It Resonates
Reiki, at its core, is the channeling of universal life force energy. While most commonly associated with Mikao Usui, a Japanese spiritual teacher from the early 1900s, some believe Reiki is far older — an ancient energy technology embedded in the human experience.
Usui’s version of Reiki came after a profound experience on Mount Kurama, where he fasted and meditated for 21 days. The result was a healing system he passed down through lineage — one that helps people access the natural energy available all around us.
And yet, many clients and practitioners feel they are simply remembering something ancient. A cellular knowing. This energy — gentle, intelligent, loving — helps the body return to its natural rhythm. Reiki reminds you what it feels like to come home to yourself.
Practitioners are attuned by a Reiki Master to channel this energy — allowing it to flow through the hands, either placed lightly on the body or held just above it. It’s non-invasive, nurturing, and deeply intuitive.
2. The Science and Studies on Reiki
While Reiki is energetic and spiritual in nature, there is a growing body of research validating its benefits. Studies suggest Reiki may:
Reduce stress and anxiety
Support nervous system regulation
Ease pain perception
Boost mood and emotional regulation
Improve sleep and quality of life
In many hospitals and wellness clinics, Reiki is now offered alongside traditional care, particularly for patients dealing with chronic illness, stress-related conditions, or recovering from surgery. It’s also gaining ground in trauma-informed care and integrative therapy.
Reiki activates the parasympathetic nervous system — the body’s natural rest and repair mode — making it a powerful ally in holistic wellness.
3. The Real-Life Benefits of Reiki
Reiki is more than a moment of relaxation — though it provides that, too. The benefits ripple outward, affecting every layer of your being:
Physical: Restores energy, eases pain, supports the immune system, and promotes better sleep.
Emotional: Encourages emotional release, reduces overwhelm, and fosters a deeper sense of safety and trust.
Mental: Helps quiet mental noise, support clarity, and increase presence.
Spiritual: Encourages self-connection, intuition, and alignment with your authentic self.
Clients often describe Reiki as a safe space to exhale. Over time, it helps shift old patterns, supports trauma release, and invites your system to operate from a place of balance instead of survival.
4. How to Choose a Reiki Practitioner
Reiki is sacred work, and it’s important to feel safe with your practitioner. Look for someone who is:
Properly trained and attuned by a Reiki Master
Trauma-informed or body-aware in their approach
Someone whose presence feels calming, grounded, and intuitive
Trust your gut. A good practitioner will make space for your emotions, your story, and your boundaries.
If possible, schedule a consultation call or read through testimonials. Energy is personal — and your healing space should feel welcoming and aligned.
Final Thoughts
Reiki is a powerful and gentle healing tool that offers more than just stress relief — it invites deep connection, emotional restoration, and energetic realignment. You don’t have to “believe” in Reiki for it to work. You just have to be open.
Whether you're on a healing journey, navigating a life transition, or simply craving more calm in your days, Reiki can offer beautiful support.
If you're curious or ready to experience Reiki for yourself, I’d be honored to hold space for you.
Let’s reconnect you to your wholeness — one breath at a time.
Amy Lohr
Founder, Sensory Reiki™ | Maui + Virtual Sessions
www.amylynnlohr.com