For a typical Reiki treatment, a client removes shoes only and then lays down on a Reiki table, which is similar to a massage table. The one-hour session may consist of 10-15 minutes of discussion with the remainder being table-time — the part where an individual deeply relaxes and is open to the healing benefits of the Reiki energy.
However, the question arises — can Reiki be given anywhere? The answer is absolutely YES! The above session is the best-case scenario. But Reiki given “on the go” can be quite effective. If you are a Practitioner, let yourself be flexible and adaptable to each situation, however unique or unusual it may seem.
I have given short Reiki sessions at busy health fairs where there is both noise and distraction. Each Reiki recipient sits in a chair, not laying on a table. I ask each to close their eyes, tune out their surroundings as best as possible, and just welcome whatever healing that Reiki will bring to them at that moment. Even with these brief sessions, people report benefits, relaxation, and lovely feelings of peacefulness.
Most new Practitioners don’t yet own Reiki tables. However, Reiki can effectively be given with a recipient on a sofa, a bed, a chair, or sometimes seated on the floor on a cushion. It is whatever will work at the moment. Both the recipient and Practitioner need to be comfortable — not perfectly so, but enough so that the energy can flow through the Practitioner and be joyfully accepted by the recipient. (And if you check around, you should be able to find a small, lightweight portable table that easily folds should you decide to take it with you at certain times.)
So if someone is curious about Reiki, or asks you for some “on the spot” healing — don’t be shy! Even a few minutes can be relaxing, pleasant — and sometimes quite amazing in the result. And don’t be hesitant to suggest Reiki to someone who can benefit. I know that newer Practitioners get a bit nervous about this. But if it is someone who you know and you genuinely feel they can benefit, tell them just a little bit about the modality and offer to gently lay your hands on them to let them experience the energy — or just a brief respite of tranquility. Make your explanation of Reiki very simple, such as “Reiki is a system of relaxation and stress-reduction and it promotes healing. It is a very light touch and is always beneficial, and certainly never harmful. Would you like to experience a few minutes of this?”
Of course, not everyone is going to be interested in trying Reiki. So as much as you may be excited about offering, do know that not everyone will take you up on the offer. But still, it is a radiant gift to reach out and suggest a brief session to someone who has not experienced the energy before.
I have given on the spot healing at family and friends’ homes often enough. I have even given Reiki at a busy restaurant on one occasion for a friend whose back was hurting.
One’s Reiki journey is often fascinating and for me, I never know where each day will lead. However, it has been a happily illuminating adventure and I look forward to each step along the way…
