What to Expect During a Reiki Session for a human
Whether you're completely new to Reiki or have experienced energy work before, it's natural to wonder what a session will be like. Reiki is a gentle, holistic practice that supports the body’s natural ability to heal — physically, emotionally, and energetically.
Here’s what you can expect when you come in for a session:
Before the Session:
Welcoming Environment
You’ll be greeted in a calm, supportive safe space where you can start to relax right away. If it’s your first visit, we’ll take a few minutes to talk about your goals, questions, or anything you’d like to share.
Simple Intake & Intentions:
You’re welcome to share physical concerns, emotional stress, or general wellness goals — or simply come in with an open mind. Reiki meets you where you are.
During the Session:
Comfort First
You’ll lie fully clothed on a massage table, blanket, pillow are available so you feel comfortable.
Relaxing Atmosphere:
The space is quiet and peaceful, music, sound and dim lighting. You don’t need to do anything — just breathe and allow yourself to receive.
Gentle Touch or Hands-Off:
Reiki can be practiced with light touch or completely hands-off, depending on your comfort level. I will gently place my hands above or lightly on specific areas of the body to support the flow of energy.
What You Might Feel:
Experiences vary from person to person — and even from session to session. Some people feel warmth, coolness, tingling, or energy shifts. Others may feel emotional release, deep calm, or even fall asleep. All responses are normal.
After the Session:
Gentle Return to the Present
You’ll have time to slowly reawaken, sit up, and reorient. We can talk about anything you noticed, or you can simply take a few moments in silence.
Take It Easy:
Many people feel lighter, clearer, or more grounded after a session. Drink water, rest if needed, and give your body and mind time to integrate the effects.
Common Questions
1. How long is a session?
Sessions typically last around 60 minutes.
2. Do I have to believe in Reiki for it to work?
No. Reiki is not a belief system or religion. You don’t need to "believe in it" — you only need to be open to the experience.
3. Can children, seniors, or people with medical conditions receive Reiki?
Yes. Reiki is gentle and safe for people of all ages and conditions. It can be adapted for anyone’s comfort or mobility level.
4. Can I talk during the session?
You’re welcome to speak up if you need to — but most people prefer to relax quietly. It’s your time, and you’re always in control.
5. Is Reiki a replacement for medical treatment or a doctors care?
No. It's a gentle, supportive therapy that works alongside of traditional medical care to help reduce stress, ease emotional discomfort, and help promote relaxation and the body's natural healing response.
Reiki practitioners do not diagnose conditions, prescribe medication, or perform medical procedures.
6. How often should I schedule sessions?
That depends on your goals. Some clients come weekly, (if they have a chronic illness or pain) others come monthly or as needed. For animals, I may recommend more frequent sessions at first, especially if we’re working through trauma or behavioral issues.
7. Reiki is for Everyone
Whether you're seeking relief from stress, support during a health challenge, or simply a quiet space to reconnect with yourself, Reiki offers a gentle path to balance. You don’t need to prepare anything in advance — just come as you are.
What to Expect During an Animal Reiki Session
Reiki can be a deeply healing and comforting experience for animals. Whether you're seeking support for your animals physical health, emotional well-being, or simply want to offer them a relaxing experience, Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive way to support their natural healing process.
Here's what to expect when your animal receives Reiki:
Before the Session:
Initial Consultation
We’ll start by discussing your animal’s needs, history, behavior, and any current concerns — whether physical, emotional, or behavioral. This helps guide the session and ensures your animal’s comfort and safety.
Consent from the Animal:
Reiki is always offered, never forced. Animals are highly intuitive and will choose how — and if — they want to receive the energy. Even if your animal seems to ignore the practitioner, Reiki can still be working at a subtle level.
During the Session:
Environment Matters
For horses, sessions are often conducted in their familiar space — like a stall, crosstie, or arena — to help them stay relaxed. For other animals, sessions can take place in the home, backyard, or even remotely. Some Reiki practitioners will have a space for you to bring the animal to.
The practitioner may start from a distance to observe how the animal is reacting.
No Physical Touch Required:
Reiki can be given with or without touch. Some animals seek contact; others prefer energy from a few feet away. Their boundaries are always honored.
What Animals Might Do:
Animals respond in many ways — they may yawn, lick and chew, sigh, rest, stretch, lie down, or simply stand still. These are all signs of relaxation and energy shifting. Some may walk away and return later; others stay engaged throughout.
After the Session:
Gentle Transition
Most animals are deeply relaxed after Reiki. We’ll give them time to integrate, and you may notice continued processing (like sleeping more, changes in mood or behavior, or increased affection) over the next 24–48 hours.
Follow-Up Discussion
We'll review how the session went, discuss any observations, and explore whether ongoing sessions might be helpful.
Common Questions:
1. How long is a session?
Animal Reiki sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the animal’s interest and receptiveness that day. Horses often stay engaged longer, while smaller animals may prefer shorter sessions. It really just depends on the day.
2. Does Reiki replace veterinary care?:
No. Reiki is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for veterinary treatment. It works alongside conventional care to support healing and reduce stress.
3. Can Reiki help animals, including horses, mules, donkeys etc. that are undergoing physical therapy or that were abused and neglected?
Yes. Reiki reduces stress and muscle tension, improving energy flow and circulation. It promotes relaxation, which allows the body to heal more efficiently, while supporting emotional well-being, especially during stall rest or limited movement or recovery from abuse and neglect.
4. Can Reiki help with trauma, anxiety, or behavior issues?:
Yes. Reiki helps animals release stored tension, fear, and trauma. While it's not a behavioral fix, many guardians notice calmer behavior, improved trust, and emotional balance.
5. What if my animal doesn’t want Reiki?
That’s okay. Reiki honors the animal’s choice. Some prefer to observe or receive from a distance. Consent and respect are key parts of the process.
6. How often should I schedule sessions?
That depends on your goals. Some clients come weekly, (if they have a chronic illness or pain) others come monthly or as needed. For animals, I may recommend more frequent sessions at first, especially if we’re working through trauma or behavioral issues.
7. Reiki for All Species:
Although horses often respond especially well to Reiki due to their sensitivity, the practice is beneficial for all animals — dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, livestock, and more. Each session is tailored to meet your animal where they are.
A Note on Animal Reiki
Animals are deeply connected to energy and often understand Reiki instinctively. By offering them this space of peace and healing, you're giving them the opportunity to release, rest, and restore balance — in their own time and in their own way.