Reiki

Reiki Healing Explained: What It Is & What to Expect

By Shefali Soni·15 May 2026·6 min read

What Is Reiki?

Reiki (pronounced ray-key) is a Japanese healing technique developed in the early 20th century by Mikao Usui. The word "reiki" comes from two Japanese words: rei (universal) and ki (life energy). At its core, reiki is the practice of channeling this universal life force energy to support the body's natural capacity to heal.

As a Reiki Grandmaster, Shefali Soni is trained to the highest level of this practice - able to channel, attune, and direct healing energy with precision and depth.

How Does Reiki Work?

Reiki operates on the understanding that when our life force energy is low, disrupted, or blocked, we are more susceptible to illness, stress, and emotional imbalance. When energy flows freely and abundantly, we feel vital, clear, and at peace.

During a reiki session, the practitioner acts as a conduit for universal energy, channeling it into the client's energy field. This can be done through light touch (in person) or through intention and focused awareness (in distance sessions). The energy flows to wherever it is most needed in the client's body and aura.

What Does a Reiki Session Feel Like?

Experiences vary from person to person and session to session. Common sensations include:

  • Deep warmth or gentle tingling in specific areas of the body
  • A profound sense of relaxation - similar to the feeling just before falling asleep
  • Emotional release (tears, a sense of relief, or unexpected lightness)
  • Vivid imagery or a meditative dreamlike state
  • A feeling of being deeply held and supported

Many clients fall asleep during sessions, which is perfectly normal and a sign that the body is deeply relaxed and receiving.

Distance Reiki: Does It Work Online?

Yes. Distance reiki is one of the most powerful demonstrations of how energy transcends physical boundaries. Reiki practitioners are trained to send healing energy across any distance using specific techniques and symbols. Hundreds of clients worldwide have experienced profound healing through online sessions.

All you need is a quiet, comfortable space where you can lie down or sit undisturbed for the duration of the session.

What Are the Benefits of Reiki?

  • Significant reduction in stress and anxiety
  • Improved sleep and deeper rest
  • Relief from chronic pain and physical tension
  • Emotional healing and greater resilience
  • Clarity and mental stillness
  • A strengthened immune system and accelerated recovery
  • A deeper sense of connection to self and life

Who Is Reiki For?

Reiki is appropriate for people of all ages, health conditions, and belief systems. It is particularly beneficial for those experiencing stress, burnout, grief, chronic illness, anxiety, insomnia, or those simply seeking a deeper sense of peace and wellbeing.

Reiki is a complement to (not a replacement for) conventional medical care. It works beautifully alongside other healing modalities.

How to Prepare for Your First Reiki Session

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid heavy meals immediately before the session. Set an intention - something you'd like to release, receive, or explore. Come with openness and no expectation. The energy will go where it's needed.

S

Shefali Soni

Reiki Grandmaster, Certified Hypnosis Practitioner, and Intuitive Healer with 10+ years of experience. Founder of Visions By Shefali.

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