Reiki is a complementary therapy defined by its gentle, non-invasive approach, often involving light touch or hands hovering just above the recipient’s body to channel “universal life force energy.” The goal of the practice is to promote deep relaxation, support natural healing processes, and restore balance to the energy field. Medically, Reiki does not cause infectious disease, introduce foreign substances, or result in physical injury due to its non-manipulative nature. However, some individuals report temporary discomfort or intense emotional responses following a session, which can feel like a mild illness.
Understanding the Nature of Reiki Practice
A typical Reiki session is conducted with the recipient lying down fully clothed, usually on a massage table, in a quiet setting. The practitioner systematically places their hands on or slightly above the body in a series of positions, often corresponding to the body’s energy centers. This technique is distinctly non-manipulative; it does not involve the physical pressure, joint manipulation, or muscle massage characteristic of other hands-on therapies.
Because the practice avoids deep physical contact and does not require the ingestion of any substances, the risks associated with bacterial infection, physical trauma, or chemical side effects are not inherent to the treatment. The safety of Reiki stems from its gentle nature, supporting the body’s existing ability to heal and balance itself. The therapy is often used to reduce stress and anxiety, making it a supportive practice for overall well-being.
The Concept of Emotional Release or “Healing Crisis”
Symptoms experienced after a session that feel “sick” are often described as a “healing crisis” or a detoxification reaction. Practitioners suggest this temporary worsening of symptoms is a sign that the body is releasing stored emotional, mental, or energetic blockages. This reaction is seen as a natural part of the cleansing process, not an indication of a genuine new illness.
These post-session reactions can manifest as a variety of transient physical and emotional symptoms. Common physical complaints include temporary fatigue, mild headaches, lightheadedness, or slight flu-like symptoms, such as a runny nose or sore throat. Digestive shifts, including increased urination, gassiness, or changes in bowel movements, are also reported as the body attempts to eliminate perceived “toxins.”
Emotionally, a person may experience a temporary heightening of feelings, including unexpected sadness, grief, irritability, or vivid dreams. This emotional surfacing is attributed to the release of deeply repressed or unprocessed emotions brought to the surface by the energy work. These effects are transient, usually resolving completely within 24 to 48 hours.
The intensity of a “healing crisis” is believed to be related to the amount of accumulated emotional or energetic stagnation a person holds. While uncomfortable, these reactions are interpreted as a positive sign that a deeper level of cleansing and rebalancing is occurring. The symptoms are understood as the body recalibrating its internal environment to achieve a more harmonious state.
Reiki as a Complementary Therapy and Medical Consultation
Reiki functions as a complementary practice and is not a replacement for conventional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Practitioners are ethically bound to explicitly state that Reiki works alongside, not instead of, traditional medicine, especially for serious health conditions. A certified Reiki practitioner will not diagnose an illness or advise a client to stop taking prescribed medication.
While temporary discomfort is often categorized as a healing crisis, any severe or persistent symptoms must be evaluated by a licensed medical provider. Symptoms that last longer than a few days, such as a high fever or severe pain, should never be automatically attributed to the energy work. Seeking professional medical advice is the only way to rule out an unrelated underlying health issue that requires diagnosis and treatment.
Clients should verify a practitioner’s credentials and feel comfortable discussing their health history and any post-session reactions. Open communication with both the Reiki practitioner and primary healthcare provider ensures the therapy is integrated safely into a person’s overall wellness plan. While Reiki is considered safe with no known contraindications, the responsibility for medical care rests with the individual and their doctor.