Everything consists of energy, including our bodies — physics tells us that. Chronic stress, unresolved emotions, negative thoughts, injuries and pain are all things that impact your energy. They affect how you interact with others, how you feel about yourself and your overall well-being. Reiki is powerful healing energy within us that can help us live fuller, healthier, happier lives.

Reiki is an ancient Japanese technique that is used to promote relaxation and stress relief by moving energy. “Rei” means universal, and “Ki” means life force energy. Reiki involves the laying of hands and can be self-practiced or shared by a Reiki practitioner. The practitioner channels energy through his/her hands and through energy centers in your body (chakras or meridians). A reiki session is done clothed, lying down or seated, and without the manipulation of tissue; it usually lasts for one hour and may involve guided meditation and visualization to help the body and mind relax. After finishing a reiki session, you may feel lighter, at peace and might even experience pain relief.

Reiki also benefits the nervous system. It creates a calming and relaxing space that helps you move away from the sympathetic fight, flight or freeze systemic response. When you experience a prolonged state of stress or allostatic load, your body can be at a higher risk for disease and premature mortality.

You ultimately have the innate ability to heal yourself. One of the first steps starts with finding space to slow down and bring awareness to your thoughts, attitudes and energy. Reiki offers a space where you can feel 100 percent supported with love to allow your body to heal. As best-selling author and neuroscience researcher Joe Dispenza says in Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself, “The only way we can change our lives is to change our energy — to change the electromagnetic field we are constantly broadcasting. In other words, to change our state of being, we have to change how we think and how we feel.”

Here’s a self-reiki practice you can try on your own the next time you are feeling stressed. Slow down your breath expanding through your belly, counting to four on the inhale and down from four on the exhale. Now, rub your hands together for a moment, then place one hand on your heart and one on your belly. Feeling your breath expand through your body and into your hands, notice what’s coming up in your mind, heart, and body. Then, imagine a bright light surrounding your heart. Imagine this light is universal love, guidance and support. Allow this light to flow in through your hands and heart and out with your breath, supporting your body with love. Then, notice your breath and slow it down for three more cycles. Now, just notice how you feel.

Chelsea McGuire is a reiki master teacher, practitioner, and certified health coach and can be reached at [email protected]. Learn more at www.thewholeselfheals.com, and find her on Instagram @the.whole.self and Facebook @thewholeselfheals.

Sources:
1) Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself, Dr.Joe Dispenza;
2) Finding Your Inner Gift – The Ultimate Reiki 1st Degree Manual, Marnie Vincolisi;
3) https://www.globalwellnesssummit.com/2020-global-wellness-trends/energy-medicine-gets-serious;
4) The Professional’s Guide to Health and Wellness Coaching, American Council on Exercise.