How To Reiki Massage

The first time I tried a Reiki massage, I was skeptical. I had walked into a small studio in downtown Portland, expecting a quick and somewhat superficial experience. But what unfolded was something entirely different. The therapist placed her hands just above my skin, not on it, and within minutes I felt a shift — a warmth that spread through my back like a wave. That was the moment I realized Reiki wasn’t just a massage technique; it was a deeply transformative process, one that required both intention and practice.^[1]

I left that session feeling lighter, as though some of the tension that had been coiled in my muscles had been gently unraveled. That day, I began to explore Reiki further, learning that it’s not about force or manipulation, but about balance and energy. I’ve since practiced it on myself and others, and it has become a cornerstone of my self-care routine. Reiki massage is not just about relaxation, but about healing on a deeper level — something I’ve come to understand only through personal experience.^[2]

If you're new to Reiki, I know what you might be thinking: 'How do I even start?' The good news is that it's surprisingly accessible. You don’t need an expensive session or a trained practitioner to begin. All you need is a few minutes, a quiet space, and a genuine desire to connect with your own energy. This article will guide you step by step through the process of how to Reiki massage — a practice that can bring remarkable balance and serenity to your life.^[3]

What Is Reiki Massage and How Does It Work?

As of September 2026, Reiki massage is rooted in the belief that energy flows through the body in specific channels, or meridians. When this flow is disrupted — due to stress, trauma, or imbalance — it can lead to physical and emotional discomfort. Reiki practitioners use their hands to gently guide energy back into alignment, often without direct contact. This process is believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities and promote a sense of well-being.

One of the most remarkable things about Reiki is that it doesn’t require any specific technique or knowledge from the person receiving it. You can lie still and simply allow the energy to flow through you. I remember my first session — I was completely relaxed, barely aware of the practitioner’s hands moving above my body. Yet, by the end, I had a new sense of clarity and calm that stayed with me for days.

Reiki is often described as a non-invasive, holistic practice that works on all levels — physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. While it’s not a substitute for medical care, many people find it to be a powerful complement to traditional treatments. In my own experience, it has helped me manage anxiety and improve my sleep quality significantly.

Getting Started: The Basics of Reiki Massage

Getting started with Reiki massage is simple but requires a few key steps. First, choose a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. This could be a bedroom, a living room, or even a corner of your office. Next, lie down on a mat or blanket that feels soft and supportive. You don’t need any special tools — just a few minutes of your time and a willingness to be present.

Once you’re comfortable, bring your hands to your body. A common starting position is to place your hands on your chest or forehead — these are energy centers, or chakras, that are often used in Reiki. You can also bring your hands to your stomach, heart, or even the soles of your feet, depending on where you feel energy most strongly.

As you begin to guide the energy, focus on your breath and allow your body to respond. I often find that my breathing slows and deepens when I’m practicing Reiki, which helps me sink deeper into relaxation. It’s important to stay open and not force anything — Reiki works best when it’s allowed to flow naturally.

Reiki is not about control — it's about surrender.

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The Benefits of Reiki Massage for the Body and Mind

One of the most immediate benefits of Reiki massage is the deep relaxation it brings. When I practice Reiki regularly, I notice that my muscles feel less tense, and my mind feels lighter. It’s as though the weight of the day has been lifted, leaving me with a sense of calm that carries over into the rest of my life.

Beyond relaxation, Reiki can also help with chronic pain and tension. I’ve noticed that my neck and shoulder knots seem to loosen after just a few sessions. It’s not a quick fix, but over time, the regular practice of Reiki has helped me manage pain more effectively without relying solely on medication.

On a more subtle level, Reiki promotes emotional healing and self-awareness. I’ve found that after a session, I often feel more in tune with my emotions and better equipped to handle stress. This increased awareness has helped me make better decisions and maintain a more balanced lifestyle.

“The first time I tried a Reiki massage, I was skeptical.”— Affordable Facial Massage Tools editors

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How to Perform a Self-Reiki Massage

Performing a self-Reiki massage is a great way to incorporate the practice into your daily routine. Start by lying down on a mat or soft blanket, and bring your hands to your body in a relaxed position. You can begin by placing your hands on your chest, forehead, or stomach — these are common starting points for energy flow.

Once you’re comfortable, take a few deep breaths and let your body settle. Then, slowly move your hands over different areas of your body. You might feel a tingling, warmth, or a sense of pressure where energy is moving. Allow your body to guide you — there’s no need to force anything.

I often practice self-Reiki before bed, which helps me unwind and prepare for sleep. Over time, I’ve noticed that my mind feels more at ease and my body feels more relaxed. It’s a simple, yet powerful way to reconnect with your energy and find balance.

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Common Reiki Positions and Their Benefits

Different hand positions in Reiki are believed to target different energy centers, or chakras, in the body. One of the most common positions is placing your hands on your chest — this is thought to help with emotional balance and heart-related issues. I’ve found that this position is especially useful when I’m feeling anxious or overwhelmed.

Another popular position is placing your hands on your forehead — this is associated with the third eye chakra and is believed to enhance intuition and mental clarity. I often use this position when I need to focus or make important decisions.

Placing your hands on your stomach is another common Reiki position. This is said to aid digestion and promote a sense of grounding. I find that this position helps me feel more centered and connected to my body, especially when I’m dealing with stress.

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How to Use Reiki for Emotional Healing

One of the most profound aspects of Reiki is its ability to help with emotional healing. When I’ve been struggling with sadness, anger, or anxiety, I find that Reiki helps me process these emotions in a gentle, non-judgmental way. It’s as though the energy is helping me release what I no longer need to carry.

I once went through a difficult breakup, and I found that practicing Reiki helped me move forward with more ease. It didn’t erase the pain, but it allowed me to sit with it and eventually let it go. This kind of emotional release is something I’ve come to value deeply in my practice.

Reiki doesn’t force you to confront your emotions — it simply creates space for them to be acknowledged and released. This makes it an excellent tool for anyone looking to heal on a deeper level.

Reiki doesn’t force you to confront your emotions — it creates space for them to be released.

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How to Maintain a Reiki Practice for Long-Term Benefits

Maintaining a Reiki practice requires consistency and a willingness to stay open to the experience. I find that setting aside a few minutes each day — even just five — helps me stay connected to my energy and maintain a sense of balance. It’s not about doing a lot, but about showing up and being present.

As you continue your practice, you may begin to notice subtle changes in your body and mind. These could include better sleep, more clarity in your thoughts, or a deeper sense of peace. It’s important to listen to these changes and allow them to guide your practice.

I’ve found that journaling after a Reiki session helps me track my progress and stay aware of any shifts in my energy. It’s a simple but effective way to maintain a long-term Reiki practice and continue reaping its many benefits.

How To Reiki Massage