So, what is Reiki and what is it for?

Reiki is one of the most sought-after holistic therapies in Portugal, and also one of the most misunderstood. It is not religion, not faith, not magic. It is a practice developed in Japan in the early twentieth century by Mikao Usui, which consists of channelling vital energy through the laying on of hands.

What Reiki is

The Japanese word Reiki brings together two ideograms: Rei, universal energy, and Ki, the vital energy that animates all living beings. A Reiki practitioner, once initiated by a Master, learns to serve as a channel for that energy, placing the hands on (or near) specific points on the body of the person receiving.

What Reiki is for

In a therapeutic context, Reiki is sought mainly for:

• Reducing stress, anxiety and insomnia
• Relief of chronic pain and muscle tension
• Support through grief, separation or life changes
• Recovery after medical interventions
• Reconnecting with yourself in times of emotional exhaustion

It does not replace medical care. It complements it.

What a Reiki session is like at Ponto de Luz

A session lasts, on average, 75 minutes. You lie down fully clothed on a comfortable massage table. The therapist starts with a brief conversation to understand your present moment and, from there, places the hands in specific positions along the body. Most people feel warmth, a subtle tingling, a deep relaxation; some fall asleep.

What you may feel afterwards

It is common to leave a session feeling lighter and with a calmer mind. In the following 24 to 48 hours you may feel sleepier, more emotional, more clear. It is part of the process. We recommend drinking plenty of water and not overloading your schedule on the day itself.

How many sessions are needed?

A single session brings real benefits. To work on more deeply rooted issues, such as chronic anxiety, exhaustion or grief, we suggest a cycle of four to six sessions, weekly or fortnightly.

Learn more about Reiki sessions at Ponto de Luz, in Parede, Cascais.