Reiki is simply another word for universal life force energy--the energy of all things around us and within us. Some call this life-force energy chi, Qi, Ki or Prana. Regardless of our reference, Reiki works on the principle that when energy is freely flowing within the system, the system thrives and when this energy flow is disturbed or blocked, the system becomes unwell. Impaired energy flow can manifest as physical, psychological, spiritual or other forms of unrest impeding wellbeing. Reiki is also often used as shorthand to describe a reiki treatment, which describes a gentle way of working with “life energy” to help restore balance, deep relaxation and a sense of calm.

A Reiki system is a method of promoting overall wellbeing using hands on or hands off practices to nourish the nervous system and restore the body’s natural energy flow. The system was originally developed in 18th Century Japan and is founded on Japanese meditation principles and techniques.  There are many different Reiki systems today. Kindred Lights Healing Arts practitioners follow the original practices of the Mikao Usui Ryoho system.

A Reiki practitioner creates a safe, peaceful space where healing can naturally unfold. Rather than trying to “fix” or control the process, we serve as gentle guides—helping mind, body, and spirit find balance and flow with Reiki’s energy. Trained within a recognized lineage of practice, practitioners help others experience calm, relaxation, and a greater sense of well-being on every level. We don’t hold magical powers—Reiki therapy is something anyone can learn and share. What deepens the work is steady self-practice, awareness, and heartfelt connection to the teachings, which helps the energy move more freely through us and reach others with ease. At Kindred Lights Healing Arts, our practitioners spend years cultivating their practice with authenticity, care, and integrity. We see ourselves as compassionate companions on your healing journey—walking beside you as you experience Reiki’s gentle, transformative energy and rediscover your own inner peace and wholeness.

At its simplest, a Reiki treatment creates a deep state of relaxation. This activates your body's calming system—the parasympathetic nervous system—triggering the "rest and digest" response. It lowers blood pressure and heart rate, supports digestion, conserves energy, and brings a sense of restful peace. Several studies with cancer patients show Reiki eases pain and reduces side effects from treatments like chemotherapy. From an energetic view, Reiki practitioners see wellbeing as a mind-body-breath connection with free-flowing energy. A session helps release stuck energy, which—if blocked—can show up as physical or emotional discomfort and illness. Importantly, a Reiki treatment is not a cure.  Moreover, a Reiki practitioner cannot diagnose disease or promote a specific outcome. Instead, the practitioner creates the space for healing, without presuming what form that healing should take for the client's greatest and highest good, thus allowing the energy to flow where it is needed.

The first Reiki session is usually about 60-90 minutes depending on the information we need to go over, and if this is your first session with me. There is no charge for the extra time. Subsequent sessions are 60 minutes.  I will ask you to remove your shoes, but otherwise you remain fully clothed.  For your comfort, you should wear clothes that are not constricting. Also, minimize hanging or dangling jewelry to avoid it possibly getting in the way or snagged.  You will either lay down on your back on the table or sit in a chair, whichever you prefer, and we will make you comfortable. Reiki works with a hands on or hands off approach. Before I begin, I will ask you which you prefer, I’ll explain where my hands will be placed, and you can decide what will work for you.    Reiki is not massage but may involve light touch, provided you are comfortable with it. After our discussion--your job is done!  You get to simply breathe and be open to receiving whatever it is you need—just allowing a sense of calm. After the session, we'll chat for a few minutes about what you experienced.

No. Reiki can do no harm, but sometimes people experience various sensations (not always) as the energetic flow is reestablished. Some people report feeling sensations like pressure or heat in certain areas or tingling. You may experience a release of emotions causing you to cry, or a transitory discomfort in one area or the other if there is a significantly blocked energy that shifts to restore energy flow. Primarily, the sensations are interesting, not painful and never harmful. You may even fall asleep Some people feel nothing at all, but over the few days following treatment may just experience a gentle increased sense of ease. All these experiences are fine and simply indicate that Reiki is working to restore energy flow for your greatest and highest good.