What is Reiki? Reiki is usually translated as "Universal Life Energy"-- it is a form of energy healing developed in late 19th-century Japan, although some claim its origins predate civilization as we know it. Although many forms of energy healing exist, Reiki is unique in being Divinely guided... in other words, Reiki energy has an intelligence to it, and "knows what to do" to best suit the needs of the recipient. The Reiki healer is a conduit for this energy, helping to direct Reiki toward those who need and who have requested it. What types of complaints/conditions can Reiki help with? In the very least, Reiki is a wonderful and gentle form of relaxation. However, many people also find Reiki to be helpful for reducing pain, accelerating the body's healing process, working through mental/ emotional processes and reconnecting with a sense of Divinity within and around themselves. Please note that Reiki is not intended to be used for diagnosis or in place of professional medical treatment. What should I expect during a Reiki session? Reiki sessions are typically performed on a massage table, in a dimly lit room with soft music playing. The recipient remains clothed throughout the session. Usually, the Reiki practitioner will place their hands lightly on the recipient's body, focusing especially on the chakras, and on any other areas which feel as though they need extra attention. Private regions are not touched, but are typically sent Reiki from a few inches away. Recipients commonly report Reiki energy as feeling like heat, coolness or tingling sensations. In some cases, mild physical discomfort may be felt while the body works through blockages in order to clear them. How should I prepare for my Reiki session? Comfortable clothing is strongly advised. Recipients may find they get more out of a session by limiting their intake of caffeine, sugars, fried foods and meats for a day or two beforehand, but this is only a guideline. Please avoid eating any large meals for a few hours prior to the session. Clients generally leave feeling extremely relaxed-- if at all possible, try to schedule your session at a time when you don't have anywhere to rush off to immediately thereafter. |
| About Crystal: Crystal's interest in Reiki spans back ten years, when she began learning Reiki 'under the table' through instruction from her uncle and by imitating the techniques other healers employed at the free Reiki shares she came to frequent. In October of 2003, Crystal enrolled in formal Reiki studies, receiving her Usui Ryoho Reiki I and II Certification. Crystal recently received her third degree "Master Teacher" level following a year-long apprenticeship. Currently, Crystal is primarily employed as a therapist with children on the autism spectrum. She is a PA-certified educator, holding a B.M. in Music Education from Moravian College, and is also a graduate of the Deep Muscle Massage program at the Health Options Institute. Crystal has had an avid interest in a wide range of esoteric topics for the past 15 years, and is a 2nd-degree High Priestess in the Butler Family Tradition of Witchcraft. She works as manager at Ostara* where, in addition to practicing and teaching Reiki, she also teaches "History of Witchcraft", "Witch's Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram" and co-teaches "The Geiselian Gematria". |
 |
