Reiki

Reiki is an energy practice founded in Japan in the 1920s by Mikao Usui. The word comes from "rei" (universal) and "ki" (life energy). It is now one of the most widespread energy disciplines worldwide, with a strong presence in North America, Europe and Japan where it retains a more traditional character.

Reiki rests on the idea of a vital energy flowing in every person, which can be channeled and transmitted by the practitioner's hands to the receiver. The practitioner acts as a channel — they do not project their own energy. Three traditional training levels structure the progression: Shoden (initiate), Okuden (advanced practitioner) and Shinpiden (master-teacher). At each level, the practitioner receives "attunements" from their master.

A session typically lasts 45 to 90 minutes. You remain clothed, lying on a massage table. The practitioner places their hands successively on or a few centimeters above different areas of the body (head, throat, heart, abdomen, back, legs). No pressure, no abrupt movement. Reported sensations vary: warmth, tingling, waves of relaxation, sometimes nothing in particular — that is normal and does not diminish the effect.

People consult in Reiki primarily for: chronic stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, persistent fatigue, support during illness or heavy medical treatment, grief, life transition, general well-being. It is a support practice, not a curative treatment.

Scientific research on Reiki is limited but growing. Clinical studies show effectiveness in reducing anxiety and perceived pain, particularly in hospital settings (oncology, geriatrics). The placebo effect is not excluded, but the benefits felt by patients remain real.

Verify the training level (ideally level 3 / Master), ask for their teaching master, their years of practice. A good Reiki practitioner is humble, does not promise to cure, lets you go at your own pace, respects your physical and emotional limits. Typical fees range from $60 to $120 per session depending on the region.