How to prepare for your Reiki session

Before starting Reiki, it's important to consult your practitioner and ask for their recommendations, as the techniques you practise will need to fall in line with your unique healing path. Here are some key things to help you make the most of your treatment:

What should I do before my Reiki session?

Relax and reflect

Take some time to breathe, sit and reflect.

Try to do this at least 30 minutes before your session in order to recognise how your body is feeling and acknowledge your emotions, thoughts or physical reactions.

Eat and hydrate

Making sure you have eaten and are keeping hydrated prior to your session is important for your comfort and focus levels. If you are hungry or thirsty, you may be uncomfortable and unable to focus on the healing.

However, try to avoid eating a heavy meal. Otherwise, your body will be using its energy to digest rather than directing it at your treatment.

Be comfortable

It is recommended you wear comfortable clothes to your session. You may be lying down or sitting in a chair for the session, so comfort is important. Take socks with you in case you are required to remove your shoes and don’t want your feet to get cold.

Don’t forget to go to the toilet before the session begins and if you are finding your position uncomfortable, let the practitioner know so you can reshuffle and get more settled.

What should I do after my Reiki session?

Take some time for yourself

Many people find the treatment's benefits occur as soon as the session is over, therefore, it is important to find somewhere quiet. Reiki professionals recommend taking at least 20 minutes after the session to meditate or take some quiet time for yourself.

Hydrate

After any energy work, it is important to stay hydrated. Be sure to drink one to two glasses of water once the session is over.

Eat

It's common to find yourself feeling hungry once the session is completed. Eating fuels the body and can help to keep the body grounded.

Reflect

It's helpful to reflect on the session while your emotions and feelings are heightened. Carry a journal or diary in your bag to capture any thoughts occurring immediately after the session.

For more helpful tips, read 6 simple things to do after a Reiki treatment.

Find out more about Reiki, including what to expect from a Reiki session and how to find a Reiki practitioner.