Reiki is a healing practice that originated in Japan; it is part of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).
It is based on the idea that there is a universal (or source) energy that supports the body's innate healing abilities. Practitioners seek to access this energy, allowing it to flow to the body and facilitate healing.
In a Reiki session, the client lies down or sits comfortably, fully clothed. The practitioner's hands are placed lightly on or just above the client's body, palms down, using a series of 12 to 15 different hand positions. Each position is held for about 2 to 5 minutes, or until the practitioner feels that the flow of energy — experienced as sensations, such as heat or tingling in the hands — has slowed or stopped.
The number of sessions depends on the health needs of the client. Typically, the practitioner delivers at least 4 sessions of 30 to 90 minutes each. The duration of sessions may be shorter in certain health care settings.
