"What is Reiki?" You ask...
Reiki is a healing modality that originated in Japan and has grown to be practiced world wide. Literally translated, it means Universal Life Force Energy, the energy that is in everything. This energy in the human body is also known as Ki, Chi, or Prana in eastern terminology. A person who uses Reiki has been “attuned” to allow their body to receive extra Ki, more than is naturally flowing within the body. Then, this person can intend the extra Ki to flow to another person, situation or location. This life force energy is originating from the Source of All Energy, it is the same as Unconditional Love and this energy is a powerful healing force.
In my opinion, it is the most powerful there is. Reiki is a tool one can learn to use for self-healing and for meditation as well as to help others. In essence, it is not the Reiki practitioner or the practice or therapy session that is doing the “healing” but the recipient allowing the energy to enter their body and turn on their own ability to heal. In the case of a person who is stressed, Reiki energy can help this person’s parasympathetic nervous system re-balance, allowing the imbalances caused by the overworked sympathetic nervous system to diminish and return to normal. The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for the proper functioning of the immune system, digestive system, heart and lung functions and the body’s ability to rest and repair. One can see how having balance in these systems would aid in overall wellbeing! Additionally, the sessions themselves are relaxing. Often practitioners combine music and aromatherapy to create a harmonious and calm setting for the treatment. Since Reiki is a holistic therapy, it works on the emotional and mental state of the body as well as the physical and can help the recipient release emotions and beliefs that keep them trapped in a stressful state of mind. The best way to know if Reiki will help you is to schedule a few sessions with a Reiki Master, however even someone with a level 1 attunement can share this vital energy with others with beneficial results.
What to expect in a Reiki Session with Crystal
Prior to the session, the Crystal will check in with the client to see if there are any specific issues that will need to be addressed in the session. The she may continue to converse with the client during the session as well, as intuitive information may come up for both the client and the practitioner. The client can remain seated or lay comfortably on a massage table. Loose fitting, comfortable clothing is best and the client will remain fully clothed without shoes during the session. With the intention of the highest and best good for the client, the Crystal will begin the Reiki session. The practitioner will go through a series of hand positions, starting at the head and ending at the feet. Each hand position is held for 3 to 5 minutes. The Reiki energy moves through the practitioner’s hands into the bio-energetic field of the client. The practitioner doesn't have to physically touch the client but may do so as needed. Most clients notice immediate relaxation during the session and may fall asleep. The total length of the session is from 60 to 90 minutes.
Crystal Willingham is a Certified Reiki Master and affiliate member of the RMA IRCT
For more information on Reiki visit the Center for Reiki Research website.
