Many people may feel somewhat uncertain or nervous before their first Reiki session. I know I was no exception to this. You may be wondering what a Reiki session will feel like. In this post, I’ll provide some typical feelings and sensations during a Reiki session as well as my own experiences.
While a Reiki session will feel different for everyone, there are some common experiences. It’s important to remember that each person’s experience is unique and that each Reiki session will feel different. The important thing is to let go of expectations and to let the experience be what it is. When you do this, I think you will find it is much more enjoyable.
My hope is that with this information, you will feel more comfortable and confident going into your Reiki session knowing that it will be an amazing, relaxing experience.
Feelings
Most people report feeling very relaxed, grounded, and calm by the end of the Reiki session. I’ve heard clients say that Reiki gave them a feeling of more energy to do the tasks they needed to do. Some people are so relaxed during the session that they fall asleep. This is a welcome reaction! The benefit of Distance Reiki is that if you fall asleep, the Reiki practitioner can simply sign off the call and you can enjoy your relaxed state without having to then go anywhere after.
Colors
Many people see colors during a Reiki session. This is a common experience. It’s even more common if you are attuned to Reiki. This is one of the most frequent experiences that I have when I receive Reiki from others either in-person or Distance Reiki. I also experience it when I give myself Reiki. I’ve heard many people say that the colors change as the Reiki practitioner moves to different parts of their body.
A lot of people wonder what the colors mean. I’ve heard some people say they correspond to the chakras. Chakras are different energy centers within our body that run from the base of the spine to the crown of the head. Each one is represented by a different color and they are thought to be wheels of energy that influence physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being. In my experience, the colors mean something different to everyone. I would recommend not letting the mind get too caught up in the “meaning” of such things and instead to just relax and enjoy the experience. I have found that it simply means for me that the Reiki energy is flowing through me and going to where it needs to go.
Tingles
Many people experience a pleasant sensation of “tingles” on different parts of their body. This is my personal favorite experience during Reiki and my most common one. This can make the Reiki experience a very enjoyable one. It can also be one of the ways that helps bring relaxation to the person receiving Reiki. It’s amazing that you can feel so much sensation from light touch or in the case of Distance Reiki, no touch.
Warmth
Often people feel a warming sensation on different parts of their body. This is a very common experience. The Reiki practitioner’s hands often become warm during a session. If you are experiencing an in-person session, you may feel the warmth from their hands. I know when I give in-person sessions clients have reported this. If you are receiving a Distance Reiki session, you may still feel that warmth travel up and down your body even without anyone physically touching you.
Cold
Sometimes you feel some cold during the session, which is why I always advise having a blanket nearby in case you experience this. Some believe that this happens as you release energy or situations that no longer serve you. I have experienced this myself and for me it’s a brief chill that quickly passes.
Images
Some people report seeing specific images or visions. Sometimes these images provide clear guidance while other times it’s not immediately clear what the images represent. It can take days or weeks to integrate the Reiki session. Be patient and open to what the images may mean without trying to force an interpretation.
Hearing Guidance
Some people hear specific guidance about their life. Some people hear it as a voice, while others may get a knowing of next steps either during the session or even days or weeks later. There are different beliefs about who is providing the guidance. It doesn’t matter if you believe this voice is God, angels, guides, or your own inner wisdom. Reiki doesn’t tell you what to believe. It works with whatever belief structures you already have in place.
Nothing
There are some people who do not feel anything different during a Reiki session. It’s important to realize that this does not mean that Reiki is not working. Reiki is flowing through you during a session whether you notice it or not. Just because you don’t feel anything doesn’t mean that nothing is happening. I would suggest journaling about how you feel physically and mentally over the days after a Reiki session to see if you notice any difference.
The End of the Session
Most people are so relaxed by the end of the session that they need to move slowly and gently as they get up. I love seeing the look on people’s faces as they finish the Reiki session! I see a sense of calm, relaxation, and joy all mixed together. As they gently and slowly come back to the present moment, I see a smile form across the face of almost every person. I can sense their lightness and ease.
This is why I do this work. It helps so many people regulate their nervous system and feel more calm, grounded, and at ease. If you are curious about Reiki and have questions, you can always contact me at [email protected]. If you feel called to experience Reiki yourself, you can book a Distance Reiki session here.
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Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This post as well as products or services listed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Reiki is a powerful energetic tools, but it is a complementary practice and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health treatment.
Copyright © 2026 Amy Majewicz-Hefley, LLC. All rights reserved.
