What is Reiki?

Reiki is a therapy that originated in Japan in the early 20th century. It involves the use of touch or non-touch techniques to channel energy into the body, with the aim of promoting physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.

In a typical Reiki session, the recipient lies down fully clothed while the practitioner uses a series of hand positions to channel energy into the body. The energy is believed to flow through the practitioner's hands and into the recipient's body, helping to balance the body's energy and promote healing.

Reiki is based on the idea that energy flows through the body and that blockages or imbalances in this energy can lead to physical or emotional problems. By channeling energy into the body, Reiki practitioners aim to remove these blockages and restore balance, which is thought to promote healing and well-being.

Reiki is often used as a complementary therapy, meaning that it is used in conjunction with conventional medical treatments to support the body's natural healing processes. It is also used as a form of self-care, with individuals learning to perform Reiki on themselves as a way to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Overall, Reiki is a gentle and non-invasive therapy that is believed to have a wide range of benefits for the body and mind. While it is not a substitute for medical treatment, many people find it to be a helpful complement to conventional medicine.

How do I get to Reiki Patio?

Reiki Patio is in the Mission/Bernal neighborhood of SF, close to the 24th St and Mission BART Station. You'll be given the exact address in your calendar invite upon booking.

How does a session entail?

Once you arrive, I'll buzz you into the gate and meet you in an outdoor breezeway. Then we have a quick walk up an indoor stairway on our way to the outdoor Reiki Patio. On the patio there will be a stool for you to set your items on. Then you can take your shoes off and lie down on your back on the heated massage table. Reiki is performed fully clothed, and sheets and blankets on top add to an extra cozy experience.

‍My lineage of Reiki has taught us to place hands directly on the body to transfer Reiki energy. I cover the torso, hips, knees, ankles, heart, head, and neck in that order (and have the client flip onto their back for a 90 minute session). People generally feel Reiki as either hot, cold, or vibration. Clients frequently mention that they “go somewhere else” which I take to mean that the body has gone into a deep relaxation state (parasympathetic system engaged) which is very nourishing to all body systems.​ By the end of the session, my clients are usually deeply relaxed or feeling a little altered.

What should I know about taking care of myself after the session?

‍I recommend drinking lots of water, eating nourishing food, and avoiding intoxicants for the rest of the day. Most people tend to sleep well and eliminate often after a session, and some people feel “sparkly” for up to a few days after. People sometimes notice transformations in their lives as well. I can’t explain this but it’s something I’ve seen over and over again!

How often should I come for Reiki?

‍Like any therapy, more benefit can be derived from more visits. My teacher recommends at least 4 visits, as the body "first session hears, second listens, third integrates, and fourth comes to homeostasis." Some people, especially those in the caring professions or on the brink of a big life transition, choose to invest in Reiki as a longer term support in their lives and come weekly or bi-weekly for a period.What should I know about taking care of myself after the session?

Is there science behind Reiki?

The scientific understanding of Reiki is still developing, and there is currently no scientific consensus on how it works. However, there are some interesting findings that suggest potential mechanisms by which Reiki may have beneficial effects on the body.

One theory is that Reiki works by modulating the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for regulating involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and breathing. A number of studies have found that Reiki can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is associated with relaxation and stress reduction, while also calming the sympathetic nervous system, which is associated with the "fight or flight" response.

There is also some evidence to suggest that Reiki may influence the biofield, a term used to describe the energy field that surrounds and permeates the body. Some studies have found that Reiki can alter the electromagnetic field of the body and induce changes in brainwave patterns.

While the scientific understanding of Reiki is still in its early stages, these findings already suggest that Reiki has beneficial effects on the body and mind.

Should I come in for a 60, or 90, minute Reiki session?

You might try a 60 minute session, which is either the front OR the back of the body, if:

- You’re petite
- You’re a child or elder
- You don’t have any back pain or issues

You might try a 90 minute session, which is both the front AND back of the body, if:

- You’re physically large or robust
- You have issues with back pain
- You feel depleted and need deep rest
- You’ve been through a lot lately
- It works for your schedule and budget!