What to Expect Before, During, and After a Distance Reiki Session

Reiki is a powerful yet gentle form of energy healing designed to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and restore balance in the body. Whether it’s your first time experiencing reiki or you’ve had sessions before, it’s helpful to understand what you can do to prepare and what to expect from your session. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your experience.

Before Your Reiki Session: Preparation Tips

1. Set Your Intention(s)     

Before your reiki session, take a few moments to reflect on what you would like to achieve from the experience. Whether it’s releasing stress, opening up your chakras, healing emotional wounds, or simply relaxing - having a clear intention can enhance the healing process.

2. Hydrate and Nourish Yourself

Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your session. Hydration helps the flow of energy in your body and can support detoxification. Eat a light, healthy meal an hour or two before your session so you're not too hungry or overly full.

3. Wear Comfortable Clothing

Wear light, comfortable clothing. This allows you to relax fully and avoid any physical discomfort during the session.

4. Clear Your Mind

Spend a few minutes in quiet reflection, meditation, or deep breathing before your session. This helps to open your mind and body to receive the Reiki energy fully. You don’t need to do anything special; just be present and open to the experience.

A serene healing space, perfect for wellness practices.

During Your Reiki Session: What Happens?

1. Relax and Breathe At the start of the session, lie down comfortably on a yoga mat, floor, bed or seated in a chair. (Do not worry if this is not an option as the energies will still reach you, however, your environment may distract you from feeling any sensations from the session.) I will begin focusing on areas that may need healing or balance.

2. Energy Flow and Sensations You may experience different sensations during the session, such as warmth, tingling, or coolness in certain areas of your body. Some people feel waves of relaxation, while others may experience a heightened emotional release. These sensations are all signs that the energy is flowing where it’s needed.

3. Quiet Reflection Reiki sessions are often quiet and serene. You may find yourself entering a meditative state or even drifting into light sleep. This is a time for you to fully relax and let go of any tension or worries. You may play calming zen music or practice breathing exercises to enhance relaxation.

A collection of crystals, often used in holistic healing such as crystal reiki.

After Your Reiki Session: Integration and Healing

1. Feelings of Peace and Relaxation After the session, many people report feeling a deep sense of peace and relaxation. You might feel lighter, both emotionally and physically, as energy blockages have been cleared. In some cases, your body may process this over several days after the session. It’s important to give yourself time to integrate the healing by avoiding stressful activities for the rest of the day, if possible.

2. Hydrate and Rest Drink plenty of water after your session to help flush out any toxins that may have been released during the energy work. Taking a salt bath can help cleanse the energetic body. You may feel a bit tired or energized, depending on how your body processes the healing. Rest if you feel the need, and listen to your body’s signals.

3. Emotional or Physical Release Some clients experience an emotional release during or after a reiki session, such as feelings of joy, sadness, or relief. This is a natural part of the healing process and is a sign that stuck emotions are being cleared from your energy field. Be gentle with yourself and allow any memories or emotions to surface without judgment.

4. Ongoing Healing Reiki often continues to work within the body and mind for several days after the session. You may notice shifts in your mood, energy levels, or even your physical body as the healing integrates. Pay attention to your body’s signals, and feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns. Journaling is a wonderful way to help process and release.

Note: Some people have profound experiences, while others may not feel anything physically. This does not mean healing hasn’t occurred. Energy healing can be subtle or intense, varying by individual and their unique energy state.