Classified as a biofield or energy therapy by the National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Reiki (RAY-key) is a form of energy work. Originating in the 1800's in Japan as a spiritual practice, it has emerged in the United States as a healing practice.
The word Reiki means universal (Rei) life energy (Ki). During a Reiki session, you will lie on a massage table or sit comfortably and the Reiki practitioner will place their hands on or near the body, allowing the Reiki energy to flow. Other than removing your shoes, you remain fully clothed.
People most often report a feeling of full relaxation and warmth during and after a session. Reiki is offered in more than 800 hospitals and clinics throughout the country, most notably by the Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine, and locally through the IU Health Cancer, Health, and Wellness program.