The Path of Reiki: A Personal Journey and What to Expect

My first experience with body energy work was in 2018, through a modality called Jin Shin Jyutsu. I remember walking out of the session feeling like the world had suddenly turned up its volume. Colors were more vivid, sounds more layered, and I was overcome with a profound sense of connection and awe. It was as if I had momentarily returned to the childlike wonder of discovering the world for the first time. I was reawakened. Grateful. Shifted.

At the time, I was already certified as a Holistic Health Coach and familiar with a wide range of alternative holistic practices, but this was different. This wasn’t just another technique I had read about. It was something I felt in my body, my mind, and my spirit. That session was the spark that led me deeper into the world of energy work — eventually guiding me toward Reiki.

What Is Reiki?

Reiki (pronounced RAY-kee) is a Japanese healing modality developed in the early 20th century by Mikao Usui. It’s based on the concept of a universal life energy that flows through all living things. When this energy becomes stagnant or blocked (often due to stress, trauma, or illness) it can affect our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Reiki helps to restore energetic balance by gently encouraging that natural flow.

It’s practiced by placing hands lightly on or near the body, with the intention of infusing pure loving energy into the client. Today, Reiki is offered in wellness centers, hospitals, and private practices around the world as a complementary therapy.

My Reiki Path

Because Jin Shin Jyutsu wasn’t taught locally, I expanded my search and kept being brought back to Reiki. I followed that thread to the Maryland Center for Reiki Training, where I completed a two-year program, eventually becoming a certified Reiki Master in the Usui Holy Fire® tradition which is a heart-centered, spiritually grounded lineage using Christian ideology.

Every practitioner brings something unique to their work. Over time, I’ve refined my approach to fit both my values and the needs of my clients. I don’t incorporate crystals, symbols, or spirit guides in my sessions. For me, Reiki is most powerful when it’s simple, direct, and anchored. I believe healing energy flows best when we’re grounded in presence and intention. 

This perspective may differ from some traditional teachings, where symbols and rituals are emphasized. I respect those practices, but have found that intuitive connection and clear intention are what truly support my clients. I don’t see myself as a healer, but rather as a conduit — a vessel through which divine love and light can flow. Think of it like jumper cables: I’m not the power source, I’m just helping reconnect the circuit.

What to Expect During a Reiki Session

Reiki is gentle, non-invasive, and tailored to each person. My goal in every session is to create a safe, calming space where the body and nervous system can shift out of “fight or flight” and into “rest and repair” mode.

Here’s what a typical session looks like:

• First, I take a few moments to ground myself. This clears any lingering thoughts or energy from the day so I can be fully present with you.
• You’ll either lie fully clothed on a massage-style table or sit in a chair, depending on what’s most comfortable for you.
• We’ll start with a few grounding breaths together, followed by a short, guided meditation to help you settle in.
• Then, I’ll begin the energy work. Some clients prefer a hands-on approach, while others prefer no physical contact. Both are equally effective, and I always honor what feels right to you.

During the session, I often begin at the crown of the head or the base of the neck, slowly working down the body in intuitive sections, which can be shoulder to elbow, elbow to wrist, hip to knee, and so on. I tune into what I call “energetic textures”: warmth, coolness, pulsing, or subtle nudges that guide my hands where clearing is needed. Sometimes, I’m drawn to a particular area without explanation and that’s often where assistance is needed the most.

The energy I conduct isn’t mine. It’s not about fixing or diagnosing. It’s about creating space for your own system to recalibrate, restore, and remember its natural balance.

The hands-on portion typically lasts about 45 minutes. Afterwards, I gently guide you back into the room and take another 10–15 minutes to check in. Some clients want to talk about what they experienced; others prefer to sit in silence for a bit. Both are valid. I always recommend drinking plenty of water afterwards, as Reiki can activate detoxification on both physical and emotional levels.

 Every Practitioner Is Different

It’s important to remember that Reiki isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some practitioners incorporate crystals, sound healing, or other spiritual elements like spirit guides or shamanic work. Others, like myself, prefer to keep things rooted and simple.

That’s why I always encourage people to speak with a potential practitioner before booking a session. Ask questions. Share your concerns. Make sure you feel safe, seen, and respected. A successful session isn’t just about technique, it’s about trust. If you don’t feel comfortable, your body won’t fully relax, and the work won’t be as effective.

Whether you’re seeking physical relief, emotional clarity, or simply a deep sense of peace and relaxation, Reiki offers a gentle but profound path to restoration. It’s not about believing in something abstract,  it’s about allowing your body to rest, your energy to reset, and your inner wisdom to awaken.

Reiki is love in motion. And when that energy flows freely, restoration becomes not just possible, but natural.