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What is Reiki? Understanding a Holistic Approach to Healing

Do you ever feel like your body and mind just need a reset? Like you wish you could sweep through in the same way you clean your desk? Feeling the weight of the to-do lists, the demands, and the pressure of the human experience are real. There is good news: there’s a way to hit "refresh", to step into energetic alignment and invite true, restorative balance into your life.

Reiki is my favorite way to step into alignment. It’s not just energy work—it’s a sacred space where healing meets transformation, and your body remembers how to heal itself. Whether you are new to the practice or have been here before, I’m here to share not only the magic of Reiki but also the science behind why it works.

So please, settle into a cozy space, and let’s explore together how Reiki can help you reconnect with your innate ability to heal, grow, and thrive.


Discovering Reiki: Energy Healing for Mind, Body, and Spirit

Reiki is an ancient energy healing technique that promotes balance and harmony in the body. Whether you're dealing with stress, chronic pain, or emotional overwhelm, Reiki invites you to step into a state of deep relaxation, where healing naturally unfolds.

In this guide, we’ll explore the science behind Reiki, the sensations you may experience during a session, and how this practice has transformed my own health and well-being as both a patient and healer.


What is Reiki? A Brief Overview

Reiki (pronounced “ray-kee”) originates from Japan and translates to “universal life energy.” This healing modality works by channeling energy through the hands of a practitioner to support the body’s innate ability to heal itself.

During a session, practitioners may use light touch or hover their hands over specific energy centers (chakras) to clear blockages and restore balance. Reiki works holistically, addressing physical, emotional, and energetic imbalances.


The Science Behind Reiki

How Reiki Affects the Nervous System

Our bodies are designed to heal, but chronic stress often pulls us into a constant state of “fight or flight.” This deregulated state taxes the adrenal glands and disrupts our natural equilibrium, leading to issues like:

  • Headaches

  • Digestive problems (e.g., acid reflux, bloating)

  • Persistent anxiety or restlessness

  • Fatigue and low energy


Reiki helps shift the body into a “rest and digest” state by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. Here’s what happens:

  • Heart rate slows

  • Blood pressure lowers

  • Stress hormone levels stabilize


Studies show that Reiki significantly reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression while enhancing overall well-being. For a deeper dive into Reiki’s science-backed benefits, explore this guide from Cleveland Clinic.


Evidence-Based Benefits of Reiki

Scientific research highlights the measurable effects of Reiki:

  • Reduced anxiety and depression

  • Improved immune function

  • Enhanced emotional balance

  • Faster recovery from physical injuries


My Journey with Reiki

A Personal Perspective as a Patient

Receiving Reiki feels like a warm, grounding hug for your soul. The first time I experienced it, I was struck by the profound relaxation it brought—a deep calm unlike anything else.

Some sessions are gentle, with sensations like warmth or tingling. Other times, I’ve felt a release of energy, like a bubble popping near an old injury site. It’s subtle yet powerful.


As a Practitioner: A Healer’s Insight

Practicing Reiki has deepened my connection with the people I work with. It’s a collaborative process, one that allows me to hold space for their healing while trusting the energy to guide the process. Reiki isn’t something I do; it’s something I facilitate—a flow of energy that nurtures and supports.


If you would like to know more about my specific journey with Reiki, I have a blog specific to my experience Reiki for Healing: My Personal Journey with Relaxation, Balance, and Health


Who Can Benefit from Reiki?

Reiki is for everyone. Whether you're navigating physical pain, emotional challenges, or simply seeking to reconnect with yourself, Reiki offers gentle but profound support.


Common Benefits of Reiki:

  • Stress relief and relaxation

  • Improved sleep

  • Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression

  • Support for physical healing



Why Reiki Fundamental to My Healing Practice

As someone who has struggled with adrenal fatigue and anxiety, Reiki has been transformative. Here are just a few ways it has supported my well-being:


  1. Improved Mobility: It relieved tightness in my Achilles tendons, allowing me to walk barefoot again.

  2. Digestive Health: Reiki eased my acid reflux and bloating, helping my digestion flow naturally.

  3. Emotional Resilience: I’ve released fear, gained confidence, and embraced new opportunities with ease.


Reiki doesn’t just address symptoms; it supports the whole person.


How to Try Reiki

If you’re ready to explore Reiki, here are a few ways to begin:

  1. Book a Session: Find a qualified Reiki practitioner near you or reach out to me for a Reiki session online or in person.

  2. Learn Reiki Yourself:

    1. Dive deeper into this practice by reading "The Reiki Manual: A Training Guide for Reiki Students, Practitioners, and Masters" by Penelope Quest & Kathy Roberts

    2. Reach out for a Reiki Attunment. There are 3 sequential attunments and classes on the path to being a Reiki Master. I offer one-on-one attunments, as well as, partner to offer attunments and classes with another practitioner.

  3. Incorporate Energy Healing into Your Routine: I channel Reiki into all of my Art and Candle Making as I work and package to make sure that my products are the most potent supports they can be while you curate your relaxing space. So if your are aiming to ground your energy (try the Alchemy & Art Earth Candle) or support your emotions (try the Water Candle) Reiki energy will infuse your space.


Share Your Experience

Have you tried Reiki, before? How has it supported your journey? Share your story in the comments below...I’d love to hear how Reiki has benefitted your life.

Xoxo, Peace

Erin Bright


This is a photograph of Reiki Master Teacher Erin Bright administering Reiki in her treatment space at Terra Luna Wellness
Reiki is the art of inviting happiness into your mind and body, and the belief that the universe is alive and filled with energy.- Dr. Usui

Learn More About Reiki with these Resources

For more information on Reiki and its benefits, visit these trusted sources:


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