Preparing for your Reiki session

Approach Reiki in a light-hearted way to relax and enjoy yourself. I think you’ll be impressed with how well you feel at the end of the session.

Doing a bit of reflection before the session can help you focus and get in the Reiki frame of mind. If you can, write down all the things you want the Reiki session to accomplish. Your list might read something like:

• To get rid of this headache
•  To make my neck feel better
•  To improve my relationship with my daughter
•  To stop worrying about my marriage

By knowing what you want to get out of the session, you set the focus to

achieve just that. The practitioner might ask you, “What are your intentions for this session?” By thinking ahead of time, you’ll know exactly what it is you need.

You can sit in your car for a couple of minutes before going to receive a Reiki session, taking the time to breathe and meditate. Doing so helps you to be more focused and relaxed when you enter the Reiki room.

Try not to have a heavy meal or lots of caffeine just before a session. You are going to relax and receive energy. If your stomach is digesting or your body is speeding, you may not feel so ready to lie down and receive a little bliss.

Every Reiki session is unique, and the exact steps of each session depend on myself and each client. (Given that, you’ll find a general structure to the Reiki treatment that varies slightly from practitioner to practitioner.)


The length of an average full Reiki session is about one hour. You might have a shorter session, especially if Reiki is performed at a Reiki circle with more than one practitioner.

Reiki begins when you meet and greet — or connect with — the practitioner. I ask that you tell me if anything is troubling you so that I can address that issue. This is the time to set an intention by saying something like “I’m hoping to relieve tension and get rid of this headache.”

I will ask you to fill in some forms before the session, and you have to sign some forms for legal purposes. These forms ask for your name, contact information, and information about any health issues and medications you take.

I use a sturdy table that allows you to feel supported and allows me to stand or sit while gently putting my hands on or slightly above you. If you have mobility issues, a Reiki session can also be done using a chair. Please let me know ahead of time if you prefer using a chair. 

To prepare for reiki session, you’ll want to take off your shoes, tight belts, watches, eyeglasses, or outer clothing that is restrictive to your comfort. You remain fully clothed during a Reiki session. I typically offer pillows to place under your neck or legs for comfort and a blanket.

Speak up at any time during the session if you’re uncomfortable or too cold, or if you need a tissue or want the music turned off. It’s your time to relax, so make sure the environment is right for you!