Reiki: What It Is, How It Works and Health Benefits

Reiki is an energy channelling therapy developed in Japan in the early 20th century by Dr. Mikao Usui. The name combines the Japanese kanji rei (universal) and ki (vital energy), reflecting the belief that a life force flows through all living beings. When this energy becomes blocked or unbalanced, the body becomes more vulnerable to stress, fatigue and illness.

What Is Reiki?

Reiki is a natural healing practice in which a therapist channels energy through their hands to the patient, aiming to rebalance the body's energetic flow. Unlike conventional massage, reiki does not manipulate muscle tissue, the touch is either gentle or the hands hover a few centimetres above the body. The therapist follows the chakras and energy points described in Eastern medicine traditions.

The practice was systematised by Dr. Usui in Japan in 1922, following a period of meditation and study of Buddhist texts. It has since spread worldwide and is today recognised as a complementary therapy in hospitals and health centres in the UK, the US, Canada and, increasingly, Portugal.

How Does a Reiki Session Work?

In a typical session, the patient lies fully clothed on a comfortable treatment table. The therapist positions their hands over or near different areas of the body, head, neck, chest, abdomen and limbs, holding each position for several minutes to allow energy to flow naturally.

Sessions typically last between 45 and 90 minutes. Many patients report feeling warmth or coolness from the therapist's hands, gentle tingling, or such deep relaxation that they fall asleep during treatment. The experience is entirely non-invasive and requires no removal of clothing.

There are three levels of reiki training, Reiki I, Reiki II and Reiki Master, enabling therapists to work at different depths of energetic intervention. A qualified professional will have completed at least Reiki II to work with clients.

Benefits of Reiki

Scientific research on reiki is growing, and available studies point to consistent benefits in several areas:

Stress and anxiety reduction: This is the most well-documented benefit. A 2019 systematic review published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine concluded that reiki produces significant reductions in anxiety compared to placebo interventions, with particularly pronounced effects in oncology and surgical patients.

Improved sleep quality: Patients with stress-related insomnia consistently report improved sleep following regular reiki sessions. The deep relaxation induced during a session appears to regulate the autonomic nervous system.

Chronic pain relief: Hospital-based studies show that reiki reduces pain perception in patients with chronic, post-operative and cancer-related pain. It does not replace analgesia, but complements it safely.

Emotional and psychological support: Reiki is frequently used as complementary support during bereavement, difficult life transitions, burnout and mild depressive states. The therapist's attentive presence and safe environment contribute significantly to this effect.

Vitality and mental clarity: From a holistic perspective, reiki restores natural energetic flow, resulting in increased energy throughout the day, better concentration and a greater sense of inner balance.

Who Is It Suitable For?

Reiki is safe and appropriate for the vast majority of people, including children and the elderly. It is particularly beneficial for those who:

• Live with chronic stress or burnout symptoms
• Have difficulty relaxing deeply
• Are going through periods of anxiety, emotional instability or grief
• Want to complement conventional medical treatment with holistic support
• Are looking for a regular self-care and prevention practice

No absolute contraindications are currently known. Always inform your therapist of any medical condition or medication before the session. Reiki does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment.

What to Expect in Your First Session

In the first session, the therapist will conduct a brief interview to understand your needs and explain the process. During treatment, you may feel warmth, coolness, tingling or unexpected lightness, or simply fall asleep. Each experience is unique and equally valid.

After the session, it is common to feel a deep relaxation that may last for hours. Some people experience a "healing crisis" within the first 24-48 hours, mild fatigue, emotions coming to the surface, which is a natural part of the rebalancing process. Stay hydrated and rest.

A series of 3 to 4 weekly sessions is generally recommended initially to assess the impact on your wellbeing.

Finding a Reiki Therapist in Portugal

In Portugal, reiki has grown significantly as a complementary wellness practice. Certified therapists can be found in Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, Braga and Faro, in both spas and independent practices.

To find a reiki therapist near you, explore the wellness spaces available on Marcar Terapias, where you can view profiles, check certifications and contact practitioners directly.

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Note: Reiki is a complementary therapy and does not replace conventional medical diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your doctor for any health condition.