FAQs

There are many questions that may arise when you begin to consider your first Reiki treatment or to learn. We always encourage questions, and are happy to answer any queries you may have. Read on for some of our most FAQS. If you don't find your answer, drop us an email!

Where does Reiki originate from and how does it work?
Usui Reiki is a spiritual treatment method for the improvement of body & mind. Commonly referred to as "Universal Life Force/Energy", it was founded by Dr Mikao Usui in 1922, Japan. A practitioner receives Reiju/attunements in order to reawaken one's own innate connection to Reiki. This process is when an individual is reminded/reconnected to their own spirit energy and true nature. It involves placing the hands on various parts of the body to detect byosen (disease lines), which then enables the Reiki to flow to where it is most needed to clear areas of imbalance or stagnant energy. During the treatment the flow of energy helps to intensify the vibrational frequency of the receiver to benefit mind, body and energy.

The treatment identifies the areas in need, toxins and stagnant energy, as well as assisting in developing a deeper understanding and connection of our inner world. The release of stagnant energy allows our Qi to flow more freely so we can feel more in harmony and alignment. Reiki is available to everyone who is open to it regardless of age, gender, race and religion. Even if you are skeptical Reiki will still flow, as long as you are open to receiving.

So what exactly is Reiki?

​Reiki is the name for both the energy and system created predominately as a tool for spiritual growth. The self healing benefits are just one aspect of a larger system devised to guide oneself towards alignment with their true nature. Through a combination of techniques Reiki reconnects an individual back to their essence -reawakening one's innate connection to the natural forces of the Universe. When you receive or learn Reiki it activates your own healing system or 'Inner Reiki", which in turn improves your personal energy flow/Qi. This non tangible energy source is accessible to all living things.

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It all seems all a bit vague, can you explain exactly how it can help me in my daily life?

Reiki can help in all areas of your life. As well as being a great method for improving physical health, it can also assist in bringing balance to the mind and energy system. Some of the benefits include identifying key areas that block your growth, as well as the subtle parts of ourselves that need refining. As these areas are identified energetic blocks are released enabling Qi to flow more freely around the body. Once there is awareness to the root of the energetic blocks, it is up to the individual to set the intention to create the change. This is where the real results take place- when the individual takes responsibility for their own healing.

Some of the cases we regularly treat include:

- ​Physical issues/illnesses from body pains, tension, aches, to more serious health issues such as: surgery recovery, eating disorders, long term illnesses such as cancer, autoimmune disease.
- Traumatic events such as sexual/childhood traumas, past wounds.
- Fertility issues such as conceiving, miscarriages, IVF complications.
- Relationship issues- Conflict/disturbances in family, marriage, romantic and friendships. Emotional wounds.
- Work/Life balance- Those who struggle to develop a healthy balance.
- Depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, mental health issues.
- Lack of movement/purpose/passion in life.
- Pre and post natal pregnancy symptoms.
- Babies, infants & children. Including Autism, ADHD, personality disorder.
- Addiction, negative thought forms and patterns, imbalanced habits.

​What is involved in a treatment?
Typically treatments are around 45-90 minutes. It involves the practitioner placing their hands intuitively on various points of the body to balance the clients energy system. Each area can be affected by the state of our mind, body and energy. The practitioner will act as a channel for the Reiki energy to flow to where it is most needed. During the treatment the Reiki stimulates a detoxification process in the body to release any stagnant energy. If you are having a treatment with Gar you can experience a treatment from both a traditional and Western approach. in both treatments you will receive the same benefits, but from a different perspective. Traditional treatments are more focused on the simplicity and effectiveness of the system, whilst Western approaches can offer invaluable guidance to assist you to better navigate through life's circumstances. Some additional traditional Japanese Reiki techniques may also be included depending on what is needed. This is discussed briefly after the session. You can read more about what each one entails here.

In our intuitive sessions we may use additional tools (if you wish) such as crystals/pendulum that assist in offering additional insight and benefits. NO additional tools are needed to strengthen Reiki- however they can offer a different perspective that in our experience has often led to very positive and powerful effects in developing a better understanding of ourselves. Any insight passed on has nothing to do with the effectiveness of the treatment itself. However if you are able to understand the connection this can often lead to impactful changes in our habits, behaviour patterns and thought forms.

​Do i need to do anything special to prepare for the treatment?
No. Reiki can be performed on anyone who is open to it. It is not necessary to "detox" the body prior to a treatment by fasting, not drinking alcohol (it is advised however not to drink/do recreational drugs directly before a treatment), refraining from meat, avoiding sugar etc. Reiki sessions work through clearing you on a deeper level, so these aspects are not relevant to your treatment. It can also be safely used alongside conventional medicine, and during medical treatments and procedures. The only thing you need to do is relax, have comfortable clothing to lie down in and receive with an open mind.

​What will i feel from the treatment?
Every treatment differs from each session to each individual. Try not to have expectations or compare your experiences to others. Reiki works on a soul level to help clear energetic imbalances that are presently affecting you or your growth in any way. These maybe related to present or past events, and will naturally come to surface if necessary. Treatments are generally relaxed and commonly clients may fall asleep, feel energy movement, peaceful, or nothing at all. These are just side effects and our own senses and can be interesting to observe. However these experiences are not the main indication of the effectiveness of the treatment. The state of your mind, body and energy level after is the true indication. The more treatments you have the more sensitive and aware you may become to the energy. Occasionally clients can experience heightened emotions such as crying, heavy breathing, sweating etc, which is the body "detoxing" naturally. Do not be alarmed it is quite normal.

​Will i have any side effects from the treatment?
After your session most clients will feel a relaxed sense of state, up until the next day or even week or so. One Reiki session is often compared to the equivalent of the body receiving 4 hours of deep sleep. Depending on how much your body "detoxes", it is possible the process will continue for a short time after. This may include: frequent bathroom trips, coughing, tiredness, etc as the physical body works on releasing the stagnant energy out. This clearing is a necessary process and will differ depending on each individual. Detoxing can sometimes see symptoms worsen for a period of time, before they improve. Heightened sensitivity and emotions are common. This is normal and part of our body's defense mechanism. On an emotional/mental level, some of the information that arises may feel uncomfortable or overwhelming. Toxins are hidden deep inside our system, and Reiki brings them up to the surface to be removed. All "side effects" are temporary and generally short lived. If however you feel unease for any reason, consult with your practitioner immediately so they can put you at ease.

​When should i schedule my next treatment?
There is no recommended time for when you should schedule your next session. This varies for everyone. The best way is to listen to your body and needs. Treatments can bring a lot to surface and often may need time to digest and be worked through, before moving forward. Be gentle and patient with yourself. There is no need to rush. If you are seeking Reiki for particular health reasons or working/struggling on a particular area of your life, then it can be beneficial to have regular sessions to encourage a faster process. Allocating yourself a monthly time slot to attend to your personal needs is a good way to maintain your energy system and track your progress. For health issues depending on the severity this can range from 1- 3 x a week to fortnightly. Once the practitioner understands more about your background they can discuss a personal program with you that is suitable. If you are a Reiki practitioner you should be receiving regular treatments as well as daily/weekly self practice.

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What is the difference between a treatment and learning?
There is a significant difference between the two and learning should not be taken lightly. When you set the intention to learn many subtle energetic changes begin to take place to prepare you for this step. The "detox" process maybe intensified and it is common practitioners may experience some shifts/discomfort/clearing a few weeks before. This is often because our sensitivity begins to heighten so we become much more aware of our emotions, surroundings and body. The process for some may feel more intense than a treatment, and can even be uncomfortable. Any pressure you feel is often a small test for your internal growth. The detox tends to subside after the workshop.

Why do i need to have a pre assessment?
Although technically everyone can learn Reiki, having a treatment prior will allow you to experience and understand more clearly what is involved. For some it maybe more beneficial to receive a few treatments before learning. Healing is not always pleasant and embarking on the Path often reveals many deep layers of yourself to be worked through. It is important that practitioners are aware and willing to take responsibility for their healing in order to receive the full potential of what Reiki can bring. As Reiki works on bringing up stagnant energy and toxin in the system, having a treatment prior can often help smoothen the "detox/clearing" process that may come. There is no need to rush your learning so trust the souls timing. It is important for any practitioner embarking on spiritual practices to have a good understanding of what is being taught. Having a treatment will allow you to experience for yourself the benefits, techniques and also see if the teacher/system is the right fit for you. There are many different teachers and modalities of Reiki so it is essential to find one that is aligned with with what you are looking for.

I see many different names/types of Reiki? What is the difference? Which is better?

There are many different styles of Reiki, but ultimately each one traces back to the one source- Usui Reiki.

We teach "Usui Shiki Ryoho" (Usui Style Healing Method) the first system introduced to the West through Hawayo Takata. Gar also practices Jikiden Reiki  a traditional form of Japanese Reiki that translates to "Direct Teachings". Founded by Chiyoko Yamaguchi and her son Tadao Yamaguchi, it passes on the direct teachings as taught by Dr Hayashi to Chiyoko Sensei.

 Both Takata and Chiyoko Sensei are two pivotal figures in the Reiki world, and demonstrate clearly how two valuable systems have evolved from the same source. Both were direct students of Dr Hayashi, a prominent student and possibly the last Master to have been initiated to pass on Master Usui's teachings. Most Reiki known today are attributed to these two main streams:

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Mikao Usui- Dr Hayashi- Hawayo Takata (Western Style Reiki)

Mikao Usui- Dr Hayashi- Chiyoko Yamaguchi (Japanese Reiki)

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As with any teaching/system it is common that sub branches or modalities form, evolve and adapt over time. The key to finding the right type of Reiki for you is to research, check the standards of training, and see which system resonates the most with you. There are many new forms of Reiki that add new techniques or mix various elements from different methods, which can often over complicate the system. Reiki itself is a very simple and effective method. If you are looking to learn traditional Reiki then keep it simple. Another important aspect to consider is your connection with the system/teacher. Ensure to research and ask questions about the background/training. Read our training standards here for more details.

​How to select the right practitioner/teacher?
Reiki is becoming increasingly popular today, and it is not so difficult to find a practitioner/teacher in most places. Its growing popularity and varied teaching standards however can make it difficult to filter out the good from the bad. Things to consider:

1) RECOMMENDATION: The best place to start is your network, word of mouth is the best reliable source. Knowing someone directly means you can ask first hand from a trusted source about their experiences. Get a feel if it is something you would like to try. Good authentic masters/teachers do not necessarily advertise, so investigate and ask around.

​2) RESEARCH: Once you have found some recommendations, how do you decide which one to choose? Ask for the website/info, so you can understand more about what is offered, the training standards and reputation. Anyone can create a fancy website, but it is important to look beyond the aesthetics. Connect with the practitioner/school directly if you can, and get a feel of the authenticity.

3) CONNECT: It is important that you connect with the teacher/practitioner who you will be working with or learning from. Ensure you feel comfortable as the relationship between a therapist and client, and especially a teacher and student- is an important one. Have a treatment first if possible, before making a commitment. This may take experimenting if you are unsure. Do not be afraid to try out different practitioners to get a feel, and to see who resonates the most with you.

4) TRAINING: Look into the Teachers background and the training structure. Reiki is a palm healing method which requires the therapist to transfer the energy through the hands to the recipient. (Distant treatments can be done without the client present.) In order to be initiated into Reiki your Teacher needs to perform a Reiju/attunement which often translates to "Spiritual Blessing". Every living being is already connected to Reiki, so a Reiju is simply a process to clear your already existing channel so that you can reawaken your own spiritual energy and true nature- Tamashii. This is an important act between student and teacher which involves the teacher placing their hands directly on the student. The student receives exactly what they need at that moment in time from Reiki. We recommend to follow a system that offers in person Reiju/attunements only. Reiki was originally taught and passed on directly in person, and this traditional way is an important and integral part of the system. The system of Reiki is much more than just the physical Reiju which is why we recommend in person teaching only . Much of the teachings can be lost without the physical connection between student and teacher. Any reputable Master/Teacher will be happy to answer any questions you have about their training and experience.

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5) SUPPORT: Look into whether the school/system offers adequate ongoing support for students during and after your training. It is easy now a days to find a teacher or system to learn the basics of Reiki. However finding a system that provides ongoing support and training for students is much harder to come by. Many courses will pass on the basic info, but once the training is over students are often left to their own devices with little or no support on how to progress or expand their practice. This is often when students are left confused/fearful or disheartened as they do not have the full understanding of what Reiki can bring. Ensure that the system you choose offers a good support system for students such as regular training practice, a positive group community/atmosphere, and a teacher who is available/approachable to answer your questions/concerns when needed. Your initial Reiki training is merely the beginning. It is the students own effort, growth and practice that will deepen their Reiki practice, and for this reason it is important to find a teacher/system that will support students every step of the way.

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6) FOCUS: There are many different systems/lineages of Reiki available now adays, with many new "systems" and sub branches constantly evolving or being "upgraded." Finding "traditional"  Reiki is not as easy as it looks. Master Usui was known to have taught his original students differently according to each students experience and inner development, so we can see that even from the beginning there will have been variations in his teachings. Each system will have its own strengths and weaknesses, as each teacher will naturally evolve the teachings in accordance to their own understanding, focuses and experiences. Look into what the system focuses on. Do they align with you? Some systems focus on physical aspects, emotional growth, spiritual development, as well as those that are more focused on the etheric level. Ensure the system you learn with is well balanced, and works on all levels- the body, mind and energy levels. Most importantly it should be a system that supports your inner growth.

Do you do group shares or/and can i bring another person to join my session?
For us, Reiki treatments are a personal journey. We offer one to one for this reason so you get the most out of your treatment. At times however you may come across group shares or several practitioners working on one person. This is a common traditional practice and can be quite a nice experience. If you decide to join a Reiki share it is always recommended to check the background of the facilitator/group first to get a sense of what will be involved and ask any questions.

​Do you offer Reiki with any other methods to enhance the healing, such as bowls, gongs, chanting etc?
Reiki is a powerful, simple and effective healing tool that does not need any other method to enhance the energy. There are many beneficial energy healing modalities available when used/taught correctly, and each one will offer its own unique benefits that may resonate with you. However each energy practice will generate there own "detoxing" process, so if you are combining different energy practices it is difficult to know the combined effect, what you are potentially opening up, and the effect it will have on a person/group. Practitioners need to be responsible and aware of this especially when working with others. For this reason we advise to keep your practices separate. There is no need to add other methods to enhance. Keep it simple, and enjoy each practice in its purest form. 

​If you do not mix, how come you combine other tools in your treatments?
Crystals/pendulums as mentioned before are used (if the client wishes). It does not strengthen the Reiki energy as it is not necessary- however it can be beneficial as it can offer additional insight in a treatment. Reiki is natures energy so it is particularly effective with other natural healing tools such as crystals and essential oils. Using Reiki can help to amplify these benefits offering the client an additional layer of healing. It can be useful for those who may not feel comfortable with having a hands on Reiki treatment. In this way the client can still receive energy healing in the form of a crystal treatment-without Reiki energy if they prefer. The Reiki is used to help intuitively guide the crystals to where they are most needed, whilst the crystals do the main work.  Reiki massage works in the same way. Through working directly on the sen/energy lines the Reiki guides the massage to the appropriate parts of the body that are blocked, allowing gentle pressure through massage techniques to release any stagnant energy in the body. We also combine Reiki with NLS Frequency scans to give a more effective and detailed analysis of the treatment. This combination can help to identify the root cause of effect in specific organs of the body. These techniques are only passed on/performed once a practitioner/teacher has a certain amount of experience & understanding to be able to responsibly manage the energetic effects it may incur.

​How do distant healing treatments work?
Distant treatments are done when the physical person who requires a treatment can not be present. We go through the treatment in the same way as a hands on, and are particularly useful for those who are not nearby or not in a position to receive a hands on treatment. To get the most out of your treatment it is best to ensure you are relaxed during the time of receiving.

Although distant treatments are a great option we always recommend a full hands on treatment whenever possible for maximum benefits. You can read more about Distant Healing on our blog post.

Can anyone learn Reiki then if it is available for everyone?
Technically yes. If you are correctly attuned by a qualified teacher, this will open up your channel for Reiki, allowing you to practice on yourself and others. Once this channel is activated Reiki energy will always be available. However simply receiving your Reiju does not make you a Reiki practitioner/master/teacher. As with anything, practice and dedication is needed to improve your Reiki, the Reiju process is simply the beginning stages of your learning. Regular practice strengthens your Reiki, sensitivity and own development. Only through regular practice and self work will your Reiki evolve. If you stop practicing then your learning effectively stops there. Reiki does not leave you, but it may be that you have to get back into your own self practice first as well as receive or give a few treatments to reconnect to the energy flow. It works only for the highest of good, and always flows exactly to where it is needed. If you perform it against someones wish or not for the highest of good, the energy most likely will not flow. Additionally, your mental/emotional state is also a key factor. If you are feeling unbalanced in someway it maybe more beneficial for you to receive Reiki at this time rather than learning. These are points to consider for both teacher and student before learning.

I see some therapists do hands on and some are hands off? Which is the correct form? Why do some therapists massage /pat/stroke/tap? Is this Reiki?
Reiki is a palm healing method, and generally done on the body, however it is also common for practitioners to do it off the body or on the clients energy field. Hands off can indicate cleansing of the energetic field which is also part of the body. This sometimes is preferred if the client does not like to be touched, or if the therapist is guided through the Reiki. Tapping, massaging, stroking, patting, breathing and gazing are also different ways that Reiki can be applied/transmitted. Each client is different, and Reiki will naturally flow and be guided and applied in the best interest of their well being.

Iv taught myself and have been doing hands on healing effectively, does this mean i can perform Reiki?
A fundamental aspect of Reiki is that the student receives a physical reiju/attunement directly from the teacher. There are many different and effective healing modalities around the world, but the difference is this process that reawakens your connection to your spirits energy - Reiki. If you have taught yourself it is possible you are using your own energy/Qi. Depending on your development this can be quite effective, but different to Reiki which does not use personal energy. If a practitioner is not experienced and using their own energy, it is likely they will become depleted very quickly when using the energy to help others. It takes many years for a practitioner to fully understand and learn how to work with energy in a safe and responsible way, ensuring that their own energy system and wellbeing does not get affected. This can only be gained with experience and training under a well established system and a teacher to guide you.

The word Reiki can often lead to confusion. It is the name given to both the energy, as well as the system. Master Usui named his system Usui Reiki Ryoho, clearly distinguishing the difference between his method and others that were already in existence during his time. (At least 4 other systems were known to have existed in Japan prior.) It is possible that some people become connected to"Reiki/energy/source"- (it is available to all) however if you have not received a Reiju/attunement or proper training- you will not be practicing what we all commonly refer to as "Reiki". The physical/self healing benefits of Reiki is only one part of a much larger system designed for spiritual growth. An individual needs to have received adequate training in all aspects of the system in order to be an (Usui) Reiki practitioner, not just the connection to the energy. It can be likened to holding the keys to a very powerful car. You have the potential in your hands, however if you do not know how to drive the car you could potentially cause harm to yourself or others with out adequate training from an instructor.

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Is Reiki energy the same as our own Qi?

The two are interconnected. One perspective is that we can see Reiki as Qi when it is at its most refined state. Every living thing contains Reiki energy- humans, plants, animals. It is a universal unseen energy (like air!) that gives life and surrounds us all. When we are able to connect with Reiki it assists in releasing stagnation that may block the energy flow around the body. This in turn enhances or transforms our "regular" Qi to a higher state. When Qi is able to flow freely the body's own self healing mechanism can function much more efficiently. This allows an individual to then utilize their own inner system to enhance mind, body and energy. When we connect with Reiki we essentially connect to Spirit. When we are aligned to the same frequency we can access the benefits such as healing on a mind, body and energy level. Everyone has the potential to access Reiki. Personal Qi can easily become depleted due to external influences such as environment, emotions, physical health, ego, etc, and there is a limit to an individual's own energy supply. Reiki energy however is infinite and is always accessible when needed.

As a practitioner do you feel drained after a treatment?
A practitioner does not get depleted as they are using Reiki and not personal energy/Qi. There is no limit to Reiki energy. It is simple and flows effectively to where it needs to go, without being forced. If there is too much intention or will to force an outcome, even if it is for the best intention of the client this may result in the practitioner accidentally channeling some of their own energy. The best way is to allow the Reiki to work through you, and trust that it flows to where it is needed, rather then forcing or expecting an outcome. If personal energy is used then it is highly likely the practitioner will become depleted at some stage. Providing a practitioner is practicing in the correct manner and with pure intention, giving a treatment should actually have the opposite effect. The Reiki energy flows through both client and practitioner in a cycle, clearing both energy channels to benefit both receiver and giver. 

Can there be a transfer of negative energy between the client and therapist? Is this dangerous?

Reiki is a pure clear channel and works only with the highest of good. Negative energy is simply stagnant energy, and can not be transferred. During the process Reiki energy is circulated through both the therapist and client, purifying and cleansing both. If there is a barrier in anyway to the energy (fear for example) the therapist is imbalanced in anyway, or using too much of their own intention to direct the treatment, this may interfere with the circulation of Reiki. This is often when a practitioner may unknowingly switch into their own energy, thus breaking the Reiki channel. It is common the therapist may feel unease or some discomfort when releasing stuck energy from a client, as the energy flows through the channel before being released. Your sensitivity is heightened during your treatments, so it is very normal to become more aware of any sensations running through the body, do not be alarmed. These sensations can simply serve as an important reminder that the practitioner may have similar emotions/experiences in themselves that they too can work on. After a treatment if a practitioner is ever concerned they will have follow up methods to assist in releasing any left over energy residues from the treatment/room.

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Is it safe to have a Reiki treatment during my pregnancy?

Absolutely! Some of our most memorable treatments are with our pregnant clients. Reiki is highly beneficial during pregnancy as the energy flows to both mother and child during the process. Pregnancy can often be an emotional journey, as emotions and sensitivity are heightened. Reiki helps to release any 'stress' from the body in the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual state, allowing the energy system to reboot and align. This can be highly beneficial for those who are stressed/anxious/worried/exhausted during the pregnancy. During the pregnancy stages, the child is highly sensitive and receptive to the Reiki energy which can enhance the energetic connection between mother and child.​