Reiki

Reiki is a gentle complementary therapy where a practitioner places their hands lightly on, or just above, the body as part of a relaxation-focused session. Many people use Reiki to manage stress, unwind and support emotional wellbeing.

It should not replace medical care, but some people find it helpful as part of a wider self-care routine.

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Reiki is often described as an energy-based complementary therapy. In practical terms, sessions are typically calm, quiet and relaxation-focused. People may use Reiki to support stress management, emotional wellbeing and coping during difficult periods.

What happens in a Reiki session?

You remain fully clothed and usually lie on a couch. The practitioner will place their hands gently on, or just above, different areas of the body. Many sessions involve minimal talking, and some practitioners use grounding or breathing guidance at the start and end.

What can Reiki be used for?

Stress reduction and relaxation
Anxiety support as part of wellbeing routines
Low mood support (complementary)
Sleep support when stress is a key factor
General coping during challenging life events

Evidence and realistic expectations

People’s experiences vary. Reiki is commonly approached as a relaxation and comfort intervention rather than a treatment for specific medical conditions. It can be helpful to focus on outcomes such as perceived stress, sleep quality and general wellbeing.

Safety and suitability

Reiki is generally considered low risk. However, it should not delay diagnosis or treatment of medical issues. Seek medical assessment for severe, new or worsening symptoms. For mental health crises or risk concerns, use urgent support services.

History of Reiki

Reiki originated in Japan in the early 20th century and later spread internationally. Different lineages and teaching styles developed over time, but most share a focus on calm, hands-on (or hands-near) sessions aimed at relaxation and wellbeing.

In the UK today, Reiki is commonly used as a complementary relaxation therapy and is often chosen during periods of stress or emotional difficulty.

Typical conditions that use Reiki

Condition	Evidence	Notes
Stress	limited	Common reason for Reiki; focus on relaxation and coping.
Anxiety	limited	Complementary support; not a substitute for therapy/medical care.
Insomnia	limited	May support relaxation; encourage sleep hygiene.
Low mood	limited	Complementary; ensure signposting where appropriate.
Cancer emotional support (men)	limited	Used supportively in cancer emotional support.
Caregiver stress	limited	Used for carer stress via relaxation.
Chronic illness adjustment	limited	Supportive for chronic illness adjustment.
Depression	limited	Used supportively for depression.
Fatigue	limited	Used supportively for fatigue.
Feeling overwhelmed	limited	Used for overwhelm via relaxation.
Fertility stress (emotional support)	limited	Used for fertility stress.
Grief and bereavement	limited	Some people find it comforting during bereavement.
Low energy	limited	Used supportively for low energy.
Low motivation	limited	Used supportively for low motivation.
Menopause symptoms	limited	Used supportively for menopausal wellbeing.
Non-restorative sleep	limited	Used supportively for sleep quality.
Panic attacks	limited	Supportive for panic via relaxation.
Pelvic pain	limited	Used supportively for pelvic pain.
Postnatal emotional support	limited	Used supportively in postnatal care.
Post-viral fatigue support	limited	Used for post-viral fatigue wellbeing support.
Pregnancy anxiety support	limited	Used supportively during pregnancy.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)	limited	Used supportively for SAD.
Sleep anxiety	limited	Used supportively for sleep anxiety.
Trouble falling asleep	limited	Supportive for sleep onset.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to undress for Reiki?

No. Reiki is usually performed fully clothed, lying or seated.

Will there be physical contact?

Often light touch; hands-off options can be used if preferred.

How might I feel after a session?

Many people feel relaxed or sleepy. Hydration and gentle pacing are recommended.