When I begin a Reiki session with someone new to the experience, one of the first questions they often ask is, “How will it feel?” This is completely understandable—stepping into an unknown and somewhat unusual experience can naturally bring up feelings of curiosity, wariness, or even fear.

But the truth is, there’s no simple answer to that question. Reiki is a deeply personal experience, and how it feels can vary widely from person to person—and even from session to session for the same person.

Some people might not feel any specific sensations but leave with a profound sense of peace and relaxation. Others may find themselves overcome with a powerful wave of emotion, perhaps leading to a cleansing cry. Some might experience vivid memories, gain new insights, or feel unique sensations in different parts of their body.

Here are some experiences my clients have shared after their Reiki sessions:

• “I just feel so much more relaxed now… very calm.”
• “It felt like a warm, gentle pressure, especially in my head. Then a childhood memory came to mind—not a situation, but a smell! A comforting smell I used to love. I haven’t thought about it in years!”
• “I felt an intense surge of energy in my chest; there was pressure for a little while, but I breathed through it and felt a release. Afterward, I felt so much more clear and calm.”
• “There was a wonderful tingling sensation that spread from my head down my body. It reminded me of ASMR. What a peaceful, lovely feeling.”
• “This may sound strange, but I felt an inner movement, like waves in my body. I’m not sure if anything was actually moving on the outside, though. Then it felt like there was a consistent circle of pressure on my stomach, like an object had been left there.”

Whatever your Reiki session feels like, remember that the Reiki—or universal life force energy—is working according to your unique needs for healing and rebalancing. Even if you don’t feel much, trust that Reiki is still doing its work, restoring balance to your entire system.

You don’t need to feel anything specific for Reiki to be effective. Trust the process, stay open to receiving it, and Reiki will work wonders in your life.

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