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You may have heard friends talk about Reiki, or seen it offered alongside yoga and meditation. But what actually is it, and how can you begin? This beginner's guide explains the basics in simple language and shares an easy self-practice you can try at home.
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a Japanese relaxation practice developed by Mikao Usui in the early 20th century. The word combines rei (often translated as “universal”) and ki (“life energy”). In a session, a practitioner places their hands lightly on or just above the body in a series of positions, with the aim of encouraging deep relaxation and a sense of balance.
What does a Reiki session feel like?
Most people lie fully clothed on a couch or sit in a chair. Many describe feelings of warmth, calm or heaviness, and some simply fall asleep. Distance (remote) sessions are also offered by many practitioners, where you rest quietly at home at an agreed time.
The seven chakras, simply explained
Many Reiki practitioners also work with the chakras, seven energy centres described in Indian yogic tradition:
- Root (Muladhara): base of the spine; grounding and security.
- Sacral (Svadhisthana): lower abdomen; creativity and emotion.
- Solar plexus (Manipura): upper abdomen; confidence.
- Heart (Anahata): centre of the chest; love and compassion.
- Throat (Vishuddha): communication.
- Third eye (Ajna): between the brows; intuition.
- Crown (Sahasrara): top of the head; connection.
A simple 10-minute self-practice
- Sit or lie down somewhere quiet. Take five slow, deep breaths.
- Rest your hands lightly on the top of your head for one minute, breathing gently.
- Move your hands to your forehead, then throat, then heart, resting about a minute at each.
- Continue to your upper abdomen, lower abdomen and finally your lap or knees.
- At each position, picture the chakra's area relaxing, or silently repeat a simple affirmation such as “I am calm.”
- Finish with three deep breaths and a moment of gratitude.
Pair this with breath work from our 30-day meditation plan for a calming daily routine.
Tools to support your practice
- Reiki & Chakra Meditation Guide: a 21-day printable self-practice plan.
- 7 Chakra Affirmation Cards: printable cards for each chakra.
- Healing Crystals Guide for Beginners.
Browse all our wellness downloads.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be trained to practise Reiki on myself?
Formal Reiki is taught through attunements by a Reiki teacher, but anyone can use the hand positions above as a simple relaxation and mindfulness routine.
Is Reiki a religion?
No. It is a relaxation practice and people of any faith, or none, can try it.
Note: Reiki is a complementary wellness practice and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a qualified professional for any health concern.
Interested in a Reiki or meditation session with us? WhatsApp us at 8093590151.