How Reiki Works on Others in Person
When performing Reiki on others in person, the practitioner acts as a conduit for universal life force energy, directing it to the recipient to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual balance.
Unlike conventional touch therapies, Reiki works by restoring harmony to the body’s energy system rather than directly manipulating muscles or tissues.
You don’t have to actually lay your hands on the recipient. You may hover them above the person’s body to ease any anxiety or fear in regards to direct touch.
Always ASK the recipient which they prefer – hands-on or hands-off treatment.
Key Aspects of In-Person Reiki
The Practitioner as a Channel:
You do not “give” your energy. Instead, Reiki flows through you from the universal source to the recipient.
This ensures that you stay energetically balanced and protected during sessions.
The Energy Goes Where It’s Needed:
Reiki intuitively flows to areas of imbalance, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, even if the practitioner is unaware of the recipient’s specific issues.
Enhancing Relaxation:
The presence of the practitioner’s hands amplifies the recipient’s relaxation response, helping them to release blockages and promote healing.
How to Be Confident in What You’re Doing
Confidence comes from preparation, trust in Reiki, and focusing on the recipient’s well-being.
Prepare Yourself:
Grounding: Begin with grounding exercises, such as visualizing roots anchoring you to the earth.
Energy Cleansing: Use Cho Ku Rei to create a protective shield around yourself. This ensures you remain energetically neutral and protected.
Set Your Intention: Before the session, set an intention for healing and balance. For example: “May this session bring the recipient peace, healing, and alignment for their highest good.”
Trust Reiki’s Wisdom:
Remember that Reiki knows what to do. Even if you’re unsure, the energy will flow where it is most needed. Your role is to stay present and attuned to the recipient’s needs.
Use a Consistent Structure:
Follow a familiar sequence of hand placements (head, shoulders, torso, and limbs). Over time, your hands may naturally move to areas where you sense energetic imbalances.
Tune into Your Intuition:
Pay attention to sensations like heat, tingling, or emotional impressions in your hands or body. These often indicate where Reiki is working.
Reflect After the Session:
Journaling your experiences helps you recognize patterns, strengthen your confidence, and track the positive feedback you receive from recipients.
How to Ease a Nervous Recipient’s Anxiety
It’s common for recipients to feel unsure or anxious, especially if they are unfamiliar with Reiki. Creating a safe, comfortable environment and building trust are key.
Create a Welcoming Atmosphere:
Use calming music, soft lighting, and soothing scents (e.g., lavender) to set a tranquil tone.
Ensure the space is free from distractions or interruptions.
Explain the Process:
Provide a simple overview of what Reiki is and what they can expect during the session.
For example: “Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive practice that helps your body relax and heal. You may feel warmth, tingling, or a sense of calm, but it’s okay if you feel nothing at all. Reiki will work regardless.”
Encourage Open Communication:
Reassure them that they can speak up if they feel uncomfortable at any time.
Let them know they are in control, whether they prefer hands-on or hands-off Reiki.
Offer a Centering Exercise:
Before starting, guide them in a short breathing exercise to calm their nervous system: “Close your eyes and take a deep breath in… hold it for a moment… and slowly exhale. Let any tension melt away.”
Repeat this a few times to help them relax.
Start with Grounding Touch:
Place your hands gently on their shoulders or at their sides (with permission) to establish a reassuring connection. If you’re doing hands-free, simply state where you’re starting and allow them to see that your hands will be hovering over their shoulders or at their sides to begin with.
Set a Joint Intention:
Invite them to set an intention for the session, such as relaxation, clarity, or pain relief.
For example: “What would you like to focus on today? You don’t have to share if you don’t want to—just hold it in your mind.”
Practical Tips for Performing Reiki on Others
Hand Placements:
Start at the head: Position your hands on or above the recipient’s forehead or crown.
Move to shoulders, chest, and stomach: Place your hands above or barely touching these areas, staying mindful of comfort and privacy.
Work on arms, legs, and feet: If using hands-on Reiki, use gentle placements to encourage grounding.
Maintain Presence:
Focus your attention on the recipient and the Reiki energy. Avoid letting your mind wander.
Use the Reiki symbols to enhance the session. If the recipient is open to it, you might explain what symbol you’re using and what it’s for.
Monitor Reactions:
Watch for subtle signs of relaxation, like deep breathing or a calm expression.
If the recipient is uneasy, reassure them by speaking gently or pausing to check in.
Don’t be surprised if the recipient falls asleep.
End with Gratitude:
Gently disconnect your hands and the flow of energy. Ask the recipient how they feel and be open to their feedback.
Remember not to diagnose.
Thank the recipient for allowing you to work with them.
Encourage them to drink water and rest to integrate Reiki’s effects.
Affirmations for the Practitioner
“I trust Reiki to flow where it is needed most.”
“I am a channel for healing and peace.”
“Every session brings clarity and growth for both the recipient and myself.”“
By preparing thoroughly, trusting the process, and prioritizing the recipient’s comfort, you can perform in-person Reiki sessions with confidence, compassion, and transformative results.