What is energy healing?
Energy healing can be delivered in different ways, such as:
- Hands-on – The practitioner places their hands on parts of the body.
- Hands-off – The practitioner works without directly touching the client. Examples include crystal healing and sound baths.
- Distant – Some practitioners believe energy healing can be offered when they and their client aren't in the same place, including online.
Many terms describe energy healing. You may also come across related terms including:
- biofield therapies
- energy medicine
- contact/distant healing
- therapeutic touch
- energy therapy
- vibrational medicine.
Find out more about the difference between spiritual and energy healing.
How does energy healing work?
Energy healing is based on the belief that a form of vital or "life force" energy flows through and around the body. Different traditions use different terms and concepts to describe this energy, including qi and chakras.
Within energy healing traditions, disrupted or blocked energy is believed to affect physical or emotional wellbeing. To unblock and restore our energy pathways, practitioners use different techniques intended to restore balance and support wellbeing.
Types of energy healing
Energy healing can be delivered in several ways. Different approaches may suit different preferences and needs.
Some examples of practices associated with energy healing include:
What is pranic healing?
Pranic healing is a system of energy healing based on the belief that the body can heal itself. The practice involves techniques intended to cleanse and re-energise the chakras and aura.
What can energy healing help with?
Research into energy healing is limited, and there isn't enough evidence to say that energy healing as a whole can effectively treat particular health conditions. Different approaches, such as Reiki and qigong, have also been studied separately, so evidence for one practice shouldn't be assumed to apply to another.
People may choose to explore energy healing for a variety of reasons, including:
- relaxation and general wellbeing
- managing stress
- supporting emotional wellbeing
- coping with pain or discomfort
- supporting sleep and rest.
Some individual practices have been studied for their potential effects on health and wellbeing. Some studies of Reiki have reported positive findings, but research is generally limited by factors such as small sample sizes, study quality and inconsistent results. There isn't currently enough high-quality evidence to conclude that Reiki is effective for treating pain or other health conditions.
Research into qigong has also explored its use across a wide range of health conditions. A 2020 analysis of clinical qigong research found many studies reporting positive results, but also highlighted uncertainty within the evidence for a number of conditions. The strength of the evidence therefore varies depending on what is being studied.
Use energy healing as a complementary approach, not a replacement for conventional healthcare. If you have symptoms or a health condition that concerns you, speak to an appropriate healthcare professional and don't delay seeking medical advice or session.
What should I expect from energy healing?
Energy healing sessions may last as little as 15 minutes if they target a specific area, or up to an hour. Before your session, you may be asked about your medical history, general wellbeing and what you're hoping to get from the session. Some practitioners may also discuss or set an intention for the session with you.
The energy healing technique your practitioner uses will shape your experience. For example, whether the hands are on or off your body and if you should remain clothed. For therapies like Reiki, you will usually stay clothed. In reflexology, however, you'll likely be asked to remove your footwear.
How will it feel?
If your practitioner uses a hands-on approach, you might feel very light pressure on the areas that they're touching. Energy healing shouldn't be painful or cause any discomfort. If you are uncomfortable at any point, do let your practitioner know.
During or after a session, some people report feeling tired, relaxed or light-headed, or experiencing a tingling sensation. Others feel nothing at all. If you experience symptoms that concern you or persist, seek appropriate medical advice.
Energy healing isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, and experiences will vary.
Finding an energy healer
Energy healing isn't a regulated practice in the UK, which means anyone can call themselves an energy healer. On Therapy Directory, we ask members to provide proof of registration with a professional body or evidence of relevant qualifications and insurance.
If you're interested in trying energy healing, you can browse our list of energy healers to find a practitioner who suits your needs.
Take time to review their qualifications, experience, and approach, and consider contacting them with any questions before booking a session.
