Seems like the word ‘reiki’ has been popping up everywhere lately, doesn’t it?
I was introduced to reiki through a workshop at Saha Yoga and Wellness in Tomball, TX many years ago.
Completely unrelated to the event, I had been experiencing strange headaches on the back right side of my head on and off for a while but it was nothing to complain about. As part of the workshop, each participant was invited to receive reiki. I love ALL THINGS SAHA so I accepted.
I was laying face down on my yoga mat when I felt a buzzing in that ‘headachey’ space along with a warm intensity. I lifted my head in the direction this gentle force to realize the reiki practitioner’s hands pointed at me. I didn’t think much about it but, coincidentally, the headaches never returned.
The consideration of reiki did not come back into my awareness until years later. And, it was during that time I received my introductory level of training, known as level 1, back at Saha…with Emily Williams, known as Wild Woman Yogi. Emily has been a leader and spiritual mentor in the local community, shifting lives and perspectives for over a decade.
I am now an Usui/ Tibetan and a Holy Fire- Karuna (TM) Reiki Master Teacher with a an Egyptian lineage. I am also an Animal Reiki Master.
Sounds like a A LOT, doesn’t it???
-Don’t worry!-
It’s easier to understand than you think!
What is Reiki?
Reiki, at it’s Japanese roots, translates to Universal, spirit or soul (rei) and life energy, force or atmosphere (ki.)
It is a system of energy healing originating in Japan. Techniques are used for stress reduction and relaxation with the goal of promoting healing.
Reiki is merely one system of energy healing. As a matter of fact, Japanese traditions call it reiki; it is known as Chi in Chinese; Prana in India and Holy Spirit by the Western world. (1) The practice and study of reiki allows the practitioner to connect with this loving, compassionate energy and pass it along to themselves, family, friends, pets and, eventually, clients, if they choose.
Where did Reiki originate?
Reiki, as we know it today, originated in the early 1920’s after Mikao Usui had a spiritual revelation on Mount Karuma following a 21 day spiritual discipline. Throughout the years, reiki has evolved through the practices, observations and teachings of several reiki Masters along the way. To this day, reiki continues to evolve but, at the core of most of the teachings are the 5 reiki precepts. These, too, have evolved over time.
Students of reiki are encouraged to review and embody these principles daily.
What are the benefits of reiki?
While scientific evidence is limited, (but growing every day!) those who receive reiki report a reduction of stress and anxiety, improved sleep, pain relief, improved emotional well-being, emotional releases, possible pain relief and enhanced energy levels.
I, personally, have witnessed people releasing of long-held tensions and traumas.
Reiki is becoming more widely accepted and is being considered in the professional spaces of science, medicine, equine and human therapy.
All are working to validate the benefits of what I refer to as The Reiki Phenomenon. Reiki is being used in hospitals and programs throughout the country with successful results.
As previously mentioned, reiki is not just for humans! Some of the greatest reiki results I have experienced have been working with the Equine therapy horses at Joy Ride Center in Magnolia, TX.
Some of my reiki friends at the Texas Reiki Alliance and I volunteer each week. The progress has been amazing!!!
What can I expect during a reiki session?
Every practitioner is different. You will find some who combine modalities such as sound or crystals. (The possibilities are endless!)
But, despite all of it, reiki is reiki. While tools may enhance the experience, reiki, in it’s purest form is hands-on (or, hands slightly hovered above the body) energy work.
Reiki is often given in a studio on a massage table with blankets and bolsters to support you. You will be asked to lay down (fully clothed) and may be offered an eye mask. (Don’t leave this one to chance! Bring your OWN mask. Trust me, it enhances the experience!)
Some practitioners place their hands on their clients gently and very respectfully. Some slightly hover over the body. If you have a preference for NO HANDS, let them know before the session begins.
The practitioner will utilize a variety of hand positions from head to toe with sessions lasting for 50 minutes.
During this time, your job is to RELAX. Some people fall asleep, some feel cozy, warm, floaty…some see colors, some have visual experiences and…drumroll…some feel nothing at all.
So, how do you know it’s working?
What to expect after a reiki session?
Again, everyone is different and, therefore, experiences reiki differently. Most people feel a sense of peace or calm and sleep very well the evening following a session. Reiki has a way of opening our hearts, making us more compassionate.
Some people may feel emotional releases and sensitivities following a session. I suggest spending time with close friends or family and practicing supportive self-care following a session. Drink plenty of water, eat nutritious foods and plan to get a restful night’s sleep.
As a matter of fact, check out these cards I’ve made for my clients. This will give you a greater idea of before, during and after reiki!
How often do I need reiki?
This is between you and your practitioner. If you are in an extremely heightened state a few daily or weekly sessions may be necessary.
At a minimum, I would plan to receive a session once a month. And, consider taking reiki Level 1 to administer reiki on yourself and your close friends, family and pets.
I enjoy private sessions with clients. But, my goal is teach everyone in the world Level 1+2!!
Are there different types of reiki?
According to reiki.org, there are currently “over 30 different kinds of reiki with many subgroups and branches” (2) with more styles of reiki are being discovered all of the time. The two most common types of reiki you may hear are Usui and Holy Fire. Both share the same goal and core philosophy- to provide space for healing.
Reiki can be used on people, animals, the planet, plants, food, water and so much more.
As mentioned in the intro, I have studied both Usui and Holy Fire. I find uses for both in my personal and professional practice.
How do you become a reiki practitioner?
There are 3 main levels of study. At level 1, you are introduced to energetic and concepts, history and lineage. This level of study allows you to practice reiki on yourself, close family and friends as well as animals, the earth, plants, food, water, etc. This level is perfect for those looking for a private practice.
At level 2, your knowledge deepens as you are introduce to more advanced energetic concepts. You will be awakened to sacred geometry and, most say, deepen into a greater purpose and understanding. This is the level most people who desire to have clients will start seeing them.
After a period of study the student may then become a Master. From the Master level, one may choose to become a Master Teacher or simply walk the Earth with the honor of being a Reiki Master and the widom that it embodies.
As a Master Teacher myself, I will be hosting my next Usui/ Tibetan Level 1 + Level 2 at Heartstone Wellness October 17 + 18, 2025.
Spaces are limited so -CLICK HERE- book yours now!
Does reiki require a specific spiritual belief?
No. While the energy is one of universal love and compassion, reiki does not require or promote any spiritual beliefs. The reiki precepts are the closest to any form of philosophy of set of beliefs.
Hands on healing has been depicted in art and images dating back thousands of years. These representations are found in Egyptian, Tibetan, Hawaiian, Japanese, Roman, Christian artifacts. Reiki is not new in concept but the Usui and Holy Fire lineages are modern discoveries of an ancient art.
So, there you have it!
I’m hoping I’ve answered your questions! If you have any others, please feel free to message me!!
As mentioned, I am teaching Level 1 + Level 2 in THREE short weeks! Spaces are limited so BOOK YOURS NOW!!
XO- Brandi
REFERENCES
(1) https://reikihealingassociation.com/what-does-reiki-mean-japanese-definition/
(2) https://www.reiki.org/articles/many-kinds-reiki
