What Is Trauma-Informed Reiki?
Trauma-Informed Reiki Healing is a gentle practice that supports emotional well-being and balances the nervous system by channeling universal life energy, known as “ki” or “chi.” Recognizing that trauma can disrupt the body and mind, Reiki helps restore harmony by gently guiding energy to areas in need of healing.
This compassionate approach prioritizes safety, personal boundaries, and pacing, offering a nurturing experience that supports both physical and emotional healing for those affected by trauma.
“Just for today, I will let go of anger. Just for today, I will let go of worry. Today, I will count my many blessings. Today, I will do my work honestly. Today, I will be kind to every living creature.”
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-Dr. Mikao Usui
In trauma healing, Reiki may aid in the healing process by:
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​​​​​​​​​Reducing stress and promoting relaxation
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Reiki induces a deep state of relaxation, which is essential for trauma recovery. By calming the nervous system, it helps reduce stress levels and alleviates anxiety, allowing individuals to feel more at ease during their healing journey.
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Releases Stagnant Energy and Emotions
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Trauma may result in blocked energy within the body. Reiki facilitates the release of this stagnant energy, promoting peace. As the practitioner channels universal life force energy, they may help clear emotional blockages that may have been stored in the body due to traumatic experiences.
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Balances the Chakra System
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The chakra system plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. Trauma may disrupt this balance, leading to physical and emotional distress. Reiki works on aligning and balancing the chakras, restoring harmony within the energetic body and enhancing emotional resilience.
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Enhances Self-Awareness and Mindfulness
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Through Reiki sessions, individuals often gain greater self-awareness regarding their emotions and bodily sensations. This heightened awareness can facilitate mindfulness practices that are beneficial for trauma recovery, helping individuals stay grounded in the present moment.
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Supports Emotional Release
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During Reiki sessions, clients may experience various emotional releases such as crying or laughter as pent-up feelings surface.
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Encourages Inner Child Healing
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Many traumas may have originate from childhood experiences. Reiki may be used to connect with one’s inner child, providing comfort and validation that may have been lacking during formative years. This connection fosters healing by addressing unresolved issues from the past.
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Aids in Grounding and Protection
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Trauma may leave individuals feeling disconnected or vulnerable. Reiki techniques such as grounding help restore a sense of safety and stability by reconnecting clients with their bodies and surroundings.
Holistic Approach
Finally, Reiki treats the whole person—mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual—making it an ideal complementary treatment for those recovering from trauma who may also be undergoing other forms of treatment like talk therapy.
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​Survivors of trauma often experience intense emotional and physical symptoms, including anxiety, depression, flashbacks, and a heightened sense of danger. The body may hold onto these traumatic experiences in the form of tension or pain, which can manifest in various ways. This is where Reiki comes into play as a complementary healing modality.
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How to prepare for a Reiki session
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Reflect and Set Intentions Before your session, take some time to relax and reflect on what you want to achieve from the Reiki treatment. Consider any specific issues or emotions you would like to address, such as stress, anxiety, pain, or personal growth. Setting clear intentions can guide the energy healing process.
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Hydrate and Eat Lightly It is advisable to hydrate before/after your session. Drink water throughout the day leading up to your appointment. However, avoid heavy meals right before the session; instead, opt for a light snack if needed. This helps ensure that your body is not focused on digestion during the treatment.
Avoid Stimulants Refrain from consuming caffeine, alcohol, and heavily processed sugars at least three hours prior to your session. These substances can affect your energy levels and may interfere with the calming effects of Reiki.
Dress Comfortably Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that allows you to relax fully during the session. You will remain fully clothed while receiving Reiki, so it’s important that you feel at ease in what you’re wearing.​
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Communicate Your Needs If you have any specific health concerns or preferences regarding touch (such as sensitivity in certain areas), communicate these with your practitioner beforehand. This ensures that they can tailor the session according to your comfort level.
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Create a Quiet Space (for Distance Sessions) If you are having a distance Reiki session, prepare a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed during the treatment. Turn off notifications on devices and create an environment conducive to relaxation—consider playing soft music if it helps set the mood.
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What Our Clients Say
Carolla M.
"Upon entering Melissa's studio, I immediately noticed the calming atmosphere. Soft lighting, gentle music, and comfortable mats created an inviting space. Melissa greeted me warmly, fostering a sense of safety. There was an emphasis on personal choice from the very beginning, and I was encouraged to move my body the way I wanted to move. It felt so empowering!"