Questions and Answers

Below is a collection of commonly asked questions that come up and their associated answers.

Why do you charge for your work?

Reiki practitioners charge for their services because their time, energy, and expertise have value. Providing Reiki takes training, practice, and dedication, and practitioners often invest years learning techniques, refining skills, and continuing their education. Like any professional service, Reiki also requires real-world resources—office space, utilities, transportation, and personal living expenses—that need to be covered.

Charging for Reiki does not make it less spiritual or less sacred. In fact, the practice of exchanging energy for compensation is part of Reiki’s original teachings. Dr. Mikao Usui, the founder of Usui Reiki, emphasized that a give-and-take between practitioner and client enhances the session. Offering payment encourages commitment, respect for the process, and engagement from both parties.

While some practitioners occasionally offer free sessions or sliding-scale rates, Reiki is not free for everyone because the practitioner’s time and expertise are valuable. By charging, practitioners can continue offering high-quality, dedicated care to clients who are ready and willing to receive it.

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive energy healing practice that supports balance and well-being on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels. The word “Reiki” comes from Japanese terms meaning “universal life energy,” referring to the natural life force that flows through all living things. During a Reiki session, a practitioner serves as a channel for this energy, allowing it to flow where it’s needed most in the client’s body and energy field. The experience is deeply relaxing and calming, helping the nervous system shift out of stress and into a state of rest, repair, and healing.

Rather than forcing change, Reiki works by supporting the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Many people experience relief from stress, emotional overwhelm, anxiety, fatigue, and energetic heaviness, along with a greater sense of clarity, grounding, and inner peace. Reiki is not tied to any religion or belief system—it simply meets people where they are. Each session is unique, guided by the individual’s needs, intention, and energy, creating a safe, supportive space for deep restoration and alignment.

What will my first in-person Reiki session be like?

For your first Reiki session, you’ll remain fully clothed and get comfortable either lying on a massage table or sitting in a chair. The session usually begins with a brief conversation so you can share any intentions, questions, or areas where you’d like support. No prior experience with Reiki is needed, and there’s nothing you need to do other than relax and be open to the experience.

During the session, the practitioner gently places their hands on or just above different areas of the body. Touch, if used at all, is always light and respectful, and you can request adjustments for comfort at any time. Many people feel deeply relaxed and may notice sensations such as warmth, tingling, or a sense of calm, while others simply rest quietly. Every experience is unique, and there is no “right” way to feel.

After the session, you may feel relaxed, grounded, or emotionally lighter. Some people notice subtle shifts right away, while others experience changes over the next few days as the body continues to integrate the session. You’ll have time at the end to ask questions, share anything you noticed, and receive simple aftercare suggestions. Reiki is a gentle, supportive practice designed to help you feel more balanced, calm, and connected.

What will my first distance Reiki session be like?

For your first distance Reiki session, you can be anywhere you feel comfortable—at home, resting on a bed or couch, or seated in a quiet space. Before the session, you’ll have a brief check-in to share any intentions, questions, or areas where you’d like support. You don’t need to do anything special to prepare other than choosing a comfortable, uninterrupted space and allowing yourself time to relax.

At the scheduled time, the Reiki practitioner begins the session remotely, working with your energy just as they would in person. You may choose to rest, meditate, or simply go about quiet activities during the session. Many people experience sensations such as warmth, tingling, deep relaxation, emotional release, or a sense of calm and clarity, while others notice subtler shifts or simply feel more at ease afterward. Every experience is unique, and there is no “right” way to receive Reiki.

After the session, you may feel relaxed, grounded, or emotionally lighter. Some clients notice immediate changes, while others experience gentle shifts unfolding over the next few days as the energy continues to integrate. Time is typically set aside afterward to check in, share your experience if you wish, and receive grounding or aftercare suggestions. Distance Reiki is a gentle, supportive practice that allows you to receive healing energy wherever you are, offering balance, calm, and connection without the need to be physically present.

What can Reiki treat?

Reiki May Support:

Stress, overwhelm, and nervous system regulation
Anxiety, emotional heaviness, and feeling “stuck”
Relaxation and deep rest
Improved sleep and overall calm
Emotional processing and release
Mental clarity and focus
Grief, life transitions, and major changes
Burnout and fatigue
Spiritual growth and feeling more connected
Support alongside medical care, therapy, or other wellness practices

Reiki does not diagnose or treat medical conditions, but it can be a gentle, supportive complement to other forms of care. Each session is unique and guided by what your body and energy need in the moment.

Who is Reiki for?

Reiki Is For:

Anyone feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained
People seeking deep relaxation and nervous system support
Those going through life transitions, change, or uncertainty
Individuals experiencing anxiety, grief, or emotional heaviness
People who feel disconnected, stuck, or out of balance
Those interested in spiritual growth or deepening self-awareness
Highly sensitive or empathic individuals
People looking for gentle support alongside medical care or therapy
Anyone who wants to feel more grounded, calm, and supported
Those new to energy work as well as experienced practitioners

Reiki is gentle, non-invasive, and adaptable, making it accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds.

What can I expect after a Reiki session?

After a Reiki session, it’s common to feel deeply relaxed, grounded, and calm. Some people notice subtle shifts immediately, while others may experience changes over the next few hours or days as their body and energy continue to integrate the session. You might feel lighter emotionally, more centered, or simply more at ease in your body.

Some clients experience increased clarity, emotional release, improved sleep, or a renewed sense of balance and focus. Others may notice physical sensations such as warmth, tingling, or gentle shifts in tension. Everyone’s experience is unique, and there is no “right” way to feel.

It’s also normal to feel a need for rest, hydration, or quiet reflection after a session. Taking a little time for self-care—drinking water, journaling, or spending time in nature—can help support the effects of Reiki. Remember, Reiki works in harmony with your body’s natural processes, and the benefits may continue to unfold in the hours or days following your session.

Is Reiki religious?

No, Reiki is not a religion. It is a spiritual healing practice that works with the body’s natural energy to support balance, relaxation, and overall well-being. While Reiki has roots in Japanese spiritual traditions, it does not require any specific beliefs, rituals, or practices. People of any faith—or no faith at all—can receive and benefit from Reiki.

Reiki is about energy, intention, and self-healing, rather than doctrine or worship. It can complement your personal spiritual beliefs, meditation practice, or wellness routine, but it does not ask you to adopt any religion. Everyone is welcome to experience Reiki in a way that feels right for them.

What are Chakras?

Chakras are energy centers in the body that help regulate the flow of life force energy, often called “ki” or “prana.” There are seven main chakras, aligned along the spine, each associated with different aspects of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. When these energy centers are balanced and flowing freely, we tend to feel more grounded, healthy, and emotionally stable.

Each chakra is linked to specific qualities: for example, the root chakra supports feelings of safety and stability, the heart chakra relates to love and connection, and the third-eye chakra is associated with intuition and insight. Reiki and other energy practices often work with the chakras to help release blockages, restore balance, and support overall well-being.

Why are chakra's used in Reiki and other energy work modalities?

Reiki and other holistic practices refer to the chakras because they are seen as key energy centers in the body that influence physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. When a chakra is out of balance or blocked, it can affect the way energy flows, potentially leading to tension, emotional stress, or a sense of being “off-center.”

By focusing on the chakras, practitioners can help guide energy to areas that need support, promote balance, and encourage the body’s natural ability to restore harmony. Working with the chakras provides a framework for understanding patterns of energy in the body and helps both the practitioner and the client notice areas where extra attention, healing, or awareness may be beneficial.

In short, chakras are a useful map for energy work, helping practitioners support overall balance, relaxation, and self-healing.

How do you learn Reiki?

People learn Reiki through a combination of formal training, guided practice, and personal development. Reiki is traditionally taught in levels, often called Reiki I, II, and Master/Teacher.

Reiki I focuses on self-healing and learning to channel energy for yourself and others through hands-on techniques.
Reiki II introduces distance healing and deeper understanding of energy flow, along with symbols and techniques to enhance sessions.
Reiki Master/Teacher level trains practitioners to teach Reiki to others and further refine their skills.

Training is typically done with a certified Reiki Master, who provides instruction, guidance, and attunements—energetic “openings” that help students connect more fully with Reiki energy. Learning Reiki involves both practical exercises and cultivating awareness of energy in yourself and others. Many practitioners also incorporate meditation, self-reflection, and personal healing practices as part of their growth.

Reiki can be learned by people of all ages and backgrounds, and each student develops their own style and connection to the energy over time.

How often do I need Reiki?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—how often you receive Reiki depends on your goals, lifestyle, and current needs. Some people benefit from weekly or biweekly sessions during times of stress, emotional upheaval, or major life transitions. Others may find that monthly sessions are enough to maintain balance and support overall well-being.

Many clients also choose Reiki as needed, returning whenever they feel out of balance, overwhelmed, or in need of extra support. Over time, you’ll get a sense of what frequency works best for your body and energy. Reiki is gentle and adaptable, so it can complement your regular self-care routine, medical care, or other wellness practices without causing strain.

Are there studies that prove Reiki's efficacy?

There have been scientific studies on Reiki, including randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews that explore its effects on things like stress, anxiety, quality of life, pain, and well‑being. Some reviews and analyses have found measurable changes after Reiki sessions — for example, improvements in quality of life in several studies, significant reductions in anxiety in meta‑analyses, and positive effects compared with placebo for some mental health symptoms like clinically relevant stress and depression in adults.

For more information go to the Center for Reiki Research website or Reiki.org.

What is the IARP organization you are a member of?

The International Association of Reiki Professionals (IARP) is a global professional organization that supports Reiki practitioners, Reiki Master Teachers, and others who incorporate Reiki into their work. It’s been serving the Reiki community for nearly 30 years, with members in over 50 countries, and aims to provide a supportive environment for growth, connection, and professional development.

IARP offers tools, resources, and benefits to help practitioners enhance and expand their Reiki practices. This includes professional recognition, business and marketing support, educational resources, and opportunities to connect with other Reiki professionals. Being a Registered Professional Member of IARP signifies that a practitioner has met certain professional standards for service and ethics within the Reiki community.

Can Reiki be done remotely?

Absolutely. Reiki can be shared over distance, often called distance or remote Reiki. Even if you and the practitioner are in different locations, the energy can be directed to support your body, mind, and spirit. During a remote session, you remain in a comfortable space of your choice—resting, meditating, or simply relaxing—while the practitioner works with your energy.

Many people report feeling similar benefits to in-person Reiki, including deep relaxation, emotional release, increased clarity, and a sense of balance. Remote Reiki is especially helpful for those who live far from a practitioner, have mobility limitations, or prefer to receive healing in the comfort of their own home. Each session is tailored to your needs, just as it would be in person.

Do I need to believe in Reiki for it to work?

No, you do not need to have any prior belief in Reiki for it to be effective. Reiki works with your body’s natural energy and ability to restore balance, whether you are a skeptic, curious, or deeply spiritual. Many people experience relaxation, emotional release, and a sense of well-being even if they are unsure what to expect or don’t fully understand the process.

Being open and receptive can enhance your experience, but Reiki does not require faith, religion, or a specific mindset to support your body, mind, and spirit. Everyone’s experience is unique, and the benefits can be subtle or profound depending on your needs at the time of the session.

Are there red flags in a Reiki practitioner I should keep an eye out for?

While most Reiki practitioners are ethical and professional, it’s important to be aware of red flags when choosing someone to work with:

Claims to cure or diagnose medical conditions – Reiki supports well-being but is not a replacement for medical care. Be cautious if a practitioner promises to heal illnesses, treat specific diseases, or replace your doctor’s advice.
High-pressure sales or upselling – Sessions, courses, or products should never be pushed on you aggressively. A professional practitioner respects your choices and pace.
Lack of credentials or transparency – Ask about their training, experience, and any professional memberships (like IARP). While Reiki does not require licensing, reputable practitioners are open about their background.
Discomfort or boundary issues – Sessions should be safe and respectful. If a practitioner makes you feel unsafe, violates personal boundaries, or ignores your comfort, that is a serious red flag.
Secretive or cult-like behavior – Reiki is a healing practice, not a religious or cult-like organization. Avoid practitioners who demand secrecy, personal devotion, or extreme adherence to their beliefs.
Unrealistic promises – Reiki can support relaxation, balance, and emotional well-being, but anyone guaranteeing miracles or instant results is not practicing ethically.

A good Reiki practitioner communicates clearly, maintains professional boundaries, and supports your well-being without pressure or judgment. Trust your intuition—if something feels off, it’s okay to look elsewhere.

What should I look for in a Reiki practitioner?

A good Reiki practitioner is professional, compassionate, and attentive to your comfort and needs. Some qualities to look for include:

Clear communication – They explain what Reiki is, what to expect during a session, and answer any questions you may have.
Respect for boundaries – They honor your personal space, preferences, and comfort at all times.
Ethical and professional behavior – They do not make unrealistic promises, diagnose illnesses, or pressure you into sessions, courses, or products.
Proper training and experience – They are transparent about their Reiki training, certifications, and professional memberships (such as IARP).
Intuition and sensitivity – A skilled practitioner can sense your needs and adjust their approach while keeping you safe and comfortable.
Supportive presence – They create a calm, nurturing environment where you can relax, feel supported, and focus on your own well-being.

Ultimately, a good Reiki practitioner helps you feel safe, respected, and cared for, providing guidance and energy support while honoring your unique experience and pace.

Should I stop my other medical treatments since Reiki heals people?

No. Reiki is a complementary practice, not a replacement for medical care. It works alongside traditional healthcare to support relaxation, balance, and overall well-being, but it does not diagnose, treat, or cure medical conditions.

You should always continue prescribed medical treatments, medications, or therapies recommended by your healthcare providers. Reiki can enhance your sense of calm, reduce stress, and support emotional and energetic balance, which may complement your medical care, but it should never be used as a substitute.

Think of Reiki as a gentle support for your body, mind, and spirit—something that works with your existing treatments rather than replacing them.