Reiki is a Japanese form of stress reduction and relaxation that practitioners say promotes healing. The idea is that energy flows from the practitioner’s hands into the client. It’s that energy that creates the relaxation and healing effect.

During the session, you might notice a warming sensation in certain areas. In other areas, you might not notice anything at all. Even if you come in with a particular problem area, you may experience a sense of relaxation that affects your whole body. You might even fall asleep during the session!

Many people turn to reiki to relieve stress and anxiety. Practitioners also say that the therapy helps support the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Some healthcare professionals think that reiki helps reduce the side effects of drugs and radiation and may even reduce or eliminate the need for pain medications.

Wear comfortable clothes that you can relax in. If you’re coming from the office, feel free to bring a change of clothes — just be sure to check with the practitioner before your session to make sure there’s a place for you to change.