Energy flows within us and all around us. All forms of matter vibrate with energy.

Have you considered trying Reiki, but you weren’t sure what to expect, how to prepare for it, or even what Reiki actually is?

Reiki, pronounced “ray-key,” is Japanese for “universal life force energy.” Developed by Dr. Mikao Usui in 1922, Reiki is a Japanese energy healing technique which allows the attuned practitioner to act as a channel for energy to flow to the receiver. The treatment focuses on the chakras and meridians, and therefore energy flow, of the body. The theory is that when energy is out of balance, or when chakras are blocked, illness can occur.

Reiki can help unblock chakras and get energy back into balance.

As a Reiki practitioner, I am often asked the same types of questions by my clients. If you have never had an experience with Reiki, there are some helpful things to know to allow you to prepare for your session.

1. Reiki is not massage.

The Reiki practitioner lays her hands on the recipient in certain hand positions to directly affect the energy fields of the body. However, it is a very non-invasive practice that allows the receiver to relax comfortably, either seated or lying in a supine or prone position.

2. Your practitioner should confirm with you whether you are comfortable with touch.

If he or she doesn’t ask and you aren’t comfortable with contact, just say so. While Reiki is usually practiced with the practitioner’s hands in direct contact with the receiver, it can be effectively performed by hovering the hands an inch above the area being treated. A practitioner should never touch sensitive areas of the body.

 3. Dress comfortably.

There will be no need for you to disrobe for a Reiki session, but it is in your best interest if you dress in comfortable clothing. Plan for whatever the temperature may be in the treatment area by wearing layers. It’s also best not to wear too much jewelry, or at least be able to remove it easily for your session. It can disrupt the flow of energy and therefore your treatment.

4. Use the bathroom before your session.

There’s nothing worse than trying to relax when you have to pee. It’s all you can think about. Allow yourself the opportunity to truly relax by thinking ahead and visiting the restroom beforehand.

5. Show up sober.

Being inebriated at your Reiki session just isn’t a great idea. It can cloud and alter your energy and make you less receptive to what you are there to receive. Just come with a clean slate so you can really feel your experience and benefit from it.

6. Lastly, and I believe most importantly, arrive with an open mind and an open heart.

You cannot receive what you are not open to receiving. If you are skeptical or suspicious about Reiki, you likely will not truly experience the healing effects of your treatment. Release your expectations, lie back, close your eyes, take a deep breath and let go. Be open to whatever feelings, emotions, or sensations that might come up during your session. Only then can you truly understand the power of Reiki.

Are you interested in having a Reiki treatment? It can be an amazing experience, allowing healing and relaxation in a serene, safe environment.

Nooshi Dieken serves at ZenSpot as Director of Administration & Special Projects, as well as instructor and studio manager. She is also a Reiki II practitioner with ZenSpot. Nooshi became a teacher to help others find the same potential and balanced state of being she’s experienced as the fruits of her practice. “I am lucky to have teachers who helped guide me through the difficult moments of doubt and negative self-talk by showing me that my perfect is wherever I happen to be at this moment,” she said. Originally from St. Louis, Nooshi has lived in Oregon since 2006. She has a B.A. in Economics from University of Missouri-St. Louis, is happily married, and has a baby girl named Mitra. When off the mat, she enjoys time with her family which includes their two dogs, being outdoors, live music, spending time with good friends, reading books that make her think, writing and studying Ayurveda. She’s also fluent in both French and Farsi.

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Ed: K.B.