Techniques for Distance Reiki

Article by Deborah Lloyd, Reiki Master

Sending Reiki over a long distance is a beautiful way to bring healing Reiki energies to a family member, friend or client. It can be just as effective as an in-person session. Just as we develop routines for personal sessions, it is helpful for the Reiki practitioner to develop a routine for distance sessions.

I will share my routine – not because it is the “right” way, but because it may give you some ideas on what you can practice in your distance healing sessions. My first clients were family members who lived in other states. When something worked well, I kept it. And, when something did not feel quite right – because it felt like something was missing, or something was not in alignment with healing work – I made minor changes.

When possible, duplicate what you do in your Reiki practice. My treatment room is quiet, with soft lights, soothing music, and pleasant decorative touches. I talk to clients briefly before a Reiki session to ask if there are any specific worries or questions. Likewise, I practice distance Reiki in my meditative space in my home. I do not drive into my professional space to do distance healing, although that could be a good option for some practitioners. At home, I use my meditation space. I have designed my special space – an alcove in a bedroom, filled with spiritual artwork and books, my Reiki grid, crystals and a comfortable love seat.

My routine developed over time, and with much practice.

1. An appointment time has already been set. We found a time when the client can relax in a quiet room, preferably laying down on a bed or sofa. At the set time, I call the client on the phone and have a brief discussion. I remind them to relax, with no outside distractions.
2. I either sit on my comfy love seat, or a large cushion on the floor. I play soft music in the background. I turn my cellphone to silent, so there are no interruptions during the session.
3. I begin the session by doing the symbols, closing my eyes and setting the intentions. I place my hands in the air, in front of me, sending Reiki in the right direction towards the client.
4. After several minutes, I place the tops of my hands on my lap, with palms outward. I visualize myself doing a full Reiki session, placing my hands on different body areas and receiving impressions and messages for the client, relating to the chakras.
5. After the session is completed, I call the client again, giving her the opportunity to relate her experience of Reiki. This is an essential aspect of the session, so that any questions or concerns can be addressed. Usually, the client reports feeling sensations of being touched and warmth – similar to in-person sessions. 

Other Reiki practitioners have developed other techniques that are equally effective. Some practitioners like to hold a photograph of the receiver or write his name on a piece of paper to hold in their hands. Some like to use a large doll or stuffed animal, giving Reiki the same body parts. Others write the client’s intentions, and their intentions for the highest good of the client, on a piece of paper and send Reiki to the intentions. The Reiki practitioner can ask for guidance, and be as creative as they feel called to be, in distance practice. There are no rights or wrongs, as long as the intention is pure.

One of the greatest gifts of distance Reiki is that anyone can receive Reiki, no matter where they live, or the circumstances of their lives. If a person feels called to work with a particular Reiki practitioner, distance is not a barrier. There are no limits to Reiki. With creativity and spiritual guidance, a client anywhere in the world can receive the full benefits of Reiki energy healing.

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Deborah Lloyd is a Usui and Karuna Reiki® Master and certified holistic therapy practitioner, providing Distant Reiki sessions and training in Asheville, NC. Deborah is the author of two books, 22 Messages from the Archangels; and, Believe and it is True: A Story of Healing and Life Lessons. She is also one of the co-authors of Reiki 101: 101 Answers for Your Reiki Questions. Reach Deborah at [email protected] and on Facebook at Deb Lloyd Healing.