What is Reiki?
Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive, holistic energy healing modality that supports the natural healing process in both people and animals. It is used around the world in a wide variety of settings—from private wellness practices and yoga studios to hospitals, hospices, veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and sanctuaries.
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Most of my clients show up because they are looking for a path to reduce mental clutter and cultivate gentle healing and peace.
Finding Stillness in a Busy World
Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive, holistic energy healing modality that supports the natural healing process in both people and animals. It is used around the world in a wide variety of settings—from private wellness practices and yoga studios to hospitals, hospices, veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and sanctuaries.
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Let’s start with the basics.
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The word Reiki (pronounced RAY-key) comes from two Japanese words:
Rei, meaning Universal Life, and Ki, meaning Energy.
Together, Reiki can be understood as Universal Life Energy—the vital life force that flows through all living beings.
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Reiki is both an ancient Japanese meditation practice and a modern therapeutic modality. During a session, the practitioner uses intention, presence, breath, and focused awareness to gently “build a bridge” of connection with the recipient—whether human or animal. In this calm, receptive state, the body and nervous system are supported in returning to balance.
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Reiki does not involve manipulation, pressure, or force. Instead, it is a deeply relaxing, nurturing experience that creates a safe, supportive space for the body’s innate self-healing intelligence to activate.
You might think of the Reiki practitioner as a quiet channel or antenna—someone who helps hold the energetic container so that healing can unfold naturally, in the way that is most appropriate for the recipient.
Reiki is Complementary Healing
Reiki is considered a complementary modality, meaning it works beautifully alongside conventional medical or veterinary care. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment, and I never interfere with medical or veterinary protocols. Rather, Reiki supports the whole being—physically, emotionally, mentally, and energetically.
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Because Reiki promotes deep relaxation and activates the parasympathetic nervous system (the body’s “rest and restore” mode), it can be especially supportive for:
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Calming stress and anxiety
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Supporting emotional regulation and resilience
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Reducing pain and discomfort
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Improving sleep and energy levels
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Enhancing recovery after illness, injury, or surgery
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Providing comfort during chronic conditions or end-of-life care
Many people describe Reiki as helping them feel more grounded, centered, peaceful, and connected to themselves. Animals often respond by visibly relaxing, softening, or shifting their behavior in subtle but meaningful ways.
Reiki in Research & Modern Healthcare
Over the past two decades, Reiki has been explored in numerous peer-reviewed studies involving both humans and animals. Research suggests that Reiki may help reduce stress, anxiety, pain, and depression, and support overall well-being.
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Today, Reiki is increasingly integrated into mainstream healthcare environments. It is offered in hospitals and medical centers across the United States, including institutions such as:
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Mayo Clinic
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Cleveland Clinic
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Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
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Yale Cancer Center
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New York–Presbyterian
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Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Reiki is also widely used in cancer treatment centers, hospices, chiropractic and integrative health practices, holistic veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and rescues.
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This growing presence reflects what many people and animals already experience firsthand: Reiki is a gentle, accessible way to support healing, comfort, and nervous system regulation in a world that often moves far too fast.