If you’ve never experienced Reiki before, it can be hard to explain.
Many people describe it as a deep, floating relaxation — similar to lying under a tree on a warm day, sunlight filtering through the leaves, a gentle breeze on your skin. You’re awake, yet deeply unwound. Your body softens. Your thoughts slow. Your breathing deepens.
At its core, Reiki is a Japanese energy-based healing practice that aims to support the body’s natural ability to restore balance.
Where Did Reiki Come From?
Reiki originated in Japan in the early 20th century and is commonly associated with Mikao Usui, who developed the modern Reiki system. The word “Reiki” roughly translates to “universal life energy.”
Practitioners believe this subtle energy can be channelled through light touch (or even without physical contact) to support physical, emotional and mental wellbeing.
Sessions can take place in person or remotely — with many clients reporting similar relaxation benefits in both settings.
How Reiki Supports the Nervous System
From a wellbeing perspective, Reiki’s greatest reported benefit is deep relaxation — and that matters more than we often realise.
The nervous system has two primary modes:
Sympathetic nervous system – our “fight, flight or freeze” response.
Parasympathetic nervous system – our “rest, digest and restore” mode.
Modern life keeps many women locked in sympathetic overdrive — juggling careers, caregiving, digital overload and constant decision-making.
When stress becomes chronic, the body struggles to switch into recovery mode.
Reiki aims to gently guide the body into a parasympathetic state. During a session, clients often report:
- Slower breathing
- Reduced muscle tension
- A sense of emotional release
- Mental clarity
- Improved sleep
In simple terms, it creates space for the body to recalibrate.
What Does a Session Feel Like?
Experiences vary, but many describe sensations such as:
- Warmth or subtle tingling
- Waves of relaxation
- Emotional softening
- A quieting of mental chatter
Some people feel as though stress “melts away.” Others simply notice they sleep better or feel calmer in the days following.
While research into energy healing is still evolving, studies consistently show that practices inducing deep relaxation can lower stress hormones and support overall wellbeing.
Can Reiki Help With Anxiety?
Stress and anxiety can feel relentless — especially when the body no longer feels safe or settled.
By encouraging nervous system regulation, Reiki may help individuals reconnect with a sense of internal balance.
For women living in a constant state of urgency, that pause can be transformative.
However, Reiki should be viewed as a complementary therapy — not a replacement for medical or psychological treatment. Those experiencing ongoing anxiety or mental health challenges should seek support from qualified healthcare professionals.
How Often Should You Have Reiki?
For those exploring Reiki specifically for stress management, some practitioners suggest starting with weekly sessions for several weeks, then reassessing based on how you feel.
Ultimately, frequency depends on individual needs, stress levels and lifestyle.
The goal isn’t dependency — it’s learning how your body feels when it’s regulated, grounded and centred.
The Bigger Picture
Whether you frame Reiki as energy healing, guided relaxation or nervous system support, its intention is the same: to create a state of safety within the body.
And in a world that constantly pulls us outward, that inward reset can be powerful.
When your nervous system feels balanced, you’re better equipped to:
- Make clear decisions
- Regulate emotions
- Sleep more deeply
- Show up calmly in relationships
- Manage daily pressures
Sometimes healing isn’t about doing more — it’s about allowing your body to soften.
Women Love Health thanks Simonne Lee, Life Strategist and Reiki practitioner, for sharing her perspective.
