If you are new to Reiki, it is natural to have questions about what it is, how a session works and what you may experience. The answers below can help you decide whether Reiki feels right for you or your loved one.

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What Is Reiki?

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Reiki is a gentle, complementary wellness practice that originated in Japan. During a session, the practitioner places their hands gently on the body—with permission—or holds them slightly above or near the body.

Many people find Reiki peaceful and relaxing. It may support a sense of balance, comfort and overall well-being.

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What Does Reiki Feel Like?

Everyone experiences Reiki differently. You may notice:

• Warmth, coolness or gentle tingling

• A sense of peacefulness or deep relaxation

• Subtle sensations of energy moving

• Emotional release

• Feeling rested, refreshed or more balanced

• No noticeable sensations at all

You do not need to feel anything specific for Reiki to be offered. There is no right or wrong way to experience a session.

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What Happens During an In-Person Reiki Session?

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Before your session begins, we will briefly discuss your comfort, preferences and what you hope to receive from your Reiki time.

You will remain fully clothed and may lie on a treatment table or choose another comfortable position. Reiki may be offered through gentle touch, with your permission, or with my hands held slightly above your body.

Sessions may also include crystals, pendulum energy work or chakra balancing according to your comfort and preferences.

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Do I Have to Lie Down or Remain Still?

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No. Reiki can be adapted to your individual comfort and needs. You may sit, lie down, stand, change positions or take breaks.

Children and adults may also talk, colour, hold a comfort item or enjoy a quiet activity during their session. You do not need to close your eyes or remain completely still.

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Do I Need to Remove Any Clothing?

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No. Reiki is offered while you are fully clothed. Comfortable clothing is recommended so that you can relax more easily.

You may be asked to remove your shoes, heavy coat, watch or other bulky items, but this is always based on your comfort.

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Is Reiki a Massage?

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No. Reiki is not massage and does not involve manipulating muscles or tissues. It is a gentle energy-based practice offered through light touch, with permission, or with the practitioner’s hands held slightly above the body.

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Is Reiki Connected to a Religion?

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No. Reiki is not a religion and does not require any particular spiritual or religious belief. People from many different backgrounds and belief systems receive and practise Reiki.

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Do I Need to Believe in Reiki for It to Work?

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You do not need to follow a particular belief system to receive Reiki. You are welcome to approach your session with curiosity and simply notice how you feel during and afterward.

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What Should I Wear to My Reiki Session?

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Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to relax. You may also bring a favourite blanket, comfort item or a clean 100% cotton towel or blanket that you would like to have infused with Reiki during your session.

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How Should I Prepare for My Session?

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Very little preparation is required. Before your appointment, it may be helpful to:

• Drink some water

• Wear comfortable clothing

• Avoid arriving on an empty stomach

• Allow yourself a few quiet minutes before and after the session

• Let me know about any mobility, sensory or communication needs

You are encouraged to share any questions, preferences or boundaries before we begin.

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What Is Distance Reiki?

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Distance Reiki is offered when the recipient and practitioner are in different locations. A session may be offered using a photograph or through Zoom at an arranged time.

You may relax in a comfortable place while the session is being offered. A follow-up email is provided afterward.

Distance Reiki is available for adults, children, pets and other animals.

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Can Children Receive Reiki?

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Yes. Reiki sessions for children are gentle, flexible and adapted to the child’s age, comfort, communication style and individual needs.

Children do not need to lie still or remain quiet. They may sit, move around, colour, talk, play quietly or hold a favourite stuffed animal or blanket. A parent or guardian remains nearby during the session.

A child’s favourite comfort item may also be infused with Reiki.

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Is Reiki Inclusive and Adaptable?

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Yes. Reiki sessions can be adapted for neurodivergent children and adults, people with Down syndrome, and people with other exceptionalities or disabilities.

Sensory needs, communication preferences, mobility, personal boundaries and comfort are always respected. A parent, caregiver or support person may remain nearby when helpful.

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Can Animals Receive Reiki?

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Yes. Reiki can be offered to pets and other animals in person or from a distance.

The animal is given the freedom to choose how close they wish to be and whether they want to sit, stand, lie down, move around or leave the area. Reiki may be offered hands-on when welcomed by the animal or from a comfortable distance.

Reiki should never be forced upon an animal.

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Can Reiki Help With a Medical Condition?

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Some people use Reiki alongside their regular healthcare to support relaxation, comfort and general well-being. Experiences vary, and no particular result can be promised.

Reiki practitioners do not diagnose medical conditions, prescribe treatment or advise anyone to change or discontinue medical care.

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Is Reiki a Substitute for Medical or Veterinary Care?

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No. Reiki is a complementary wellness practice and is not a replacement for qualified medical, psychological or veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Always consult an appropriate healthcare professional regarding symptoms, health concerns, medications or treatment decisions. For animals, consult a qualified veterinarian.

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Is Reiki Safe During Pregnancy?

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Reiki is generally offered as a gentle, non-invasive practice, but you should speak with your healthcare provider before receiving any complementary wellness service during pregnancy.

Your position and the way Reiki is offered can be adapted for comfort.

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How Many Reiki Sessions Will I Need?

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There is no required number of sessions. Some people book Reiki occasionally when they feel they need peaceful, supportive time. Others choose sessions more regularly as part of their personal wellness routine.

You are welcome to decide what feels appropriate for you. There is no pressure to book a series of appointments.

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Can I Talk During My Session?

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Yes. You may talk, ask questions or remain quiet. Your session should feel comfortable and natural for you.

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Will I Fall Asleep?

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Some people become deeply relaxed and may fall asleep. Others remain awake throughout the session. Either experience is perfectly fine.

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What Might I Notice After a Reiki Session?

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Afterward, you may feel relaxed, peaceful, tired, refreshed, emotional or more aware of your body and feelings. You may also notice very little.

Everyone responds differently. Drinking water and allowing yourself some quiet time after your appointment may feel supportive.

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Is Everything I Share Confidential?

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Your privacy is respected. Personal information shared during your session is treated as confidential except where disclosure may be required by law or when there is an immediate concern for someone’s safety.

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Can I Stop the Session at Any Time?

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Yes. You remain in control throughout your session. You may ask to change position, request hands-off Reiki, take a break or end the session at any time.

Consent, comfort and personal boundaries are always respected.

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Where Is Cedar Cove Wellness Located?

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Cedar Cove Wellness is located on a peaceful three-acre property near Cobourg and Baltimore, Ontario. Sessions and classes are available by appointment only.

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How Do I Book a Reiki Session?

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To ask a question or request an appointment, please contact Susan through the website. Reiki sessions are available for adults, children, pets and other animals.

Appointments are confirmed directly so that we can discuss the type of session you are interested in and find a suitable time.

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Have Another Question?

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If your question is not answered here, please feel welcome to contact Susan. I am happy to help you understand what to expect and whether a Reiki session may be a comfortable choice for you, your child or your animal companion.

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Reiki is a complementary wellness practice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent illness and is not a substitute for medical, psychological or veterinary advice, diagnosis or care.

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