Sometimes after a Reiki session symptoms can become more prominent..
Reiki is widely regarded for its ability to balance the body’s energies and promote holistic well-being. Yet some experience an exacerbation of symptoms. While this may seem unsettling, I deeply believe it actually is a powerful indicator of deeper energetic shifts taking place within the body.
Remembering that Reiki always works for a person’s higher and greater good – sometimes that is hard for our intellectual selves to get to grips with this – because intellectually we believe we know best, and, quite simply, we want those symptoms gone! However, rather than frustration, what if you viewed any increase in symptoms as a beautiful sign that your energies are working in your favour; understanding that an increase in symptoms after Reiki can offer profound insights into the bigger overall healing process.
Understanding the Energetic Flow
During a Reiki session, practitioners work to align and balance the body’s energy systems, dissolving blockages and allowing life force energy—often called “ki” or “chi”—to flow freely. The session will place the body into a deep relaxation, allowing it to feel safe to start processing and hence healing. For many, this process simply feels deeply relaxing; but for others, due to the safety created within the body, it can awaken dormant energies or stir up emotional and physical residues that have been suppressed.
When energy begins to flow more freely in areas where it was once stuck, it can bring to the surface unresolved imbalances, which might manifest as intensified symptoms. This could include heightened physical sensations, emotional release, or even vivid dreams. From an energetic perspective, this is not a sign that something is “wrong,” but rather that the body and mind are beginning to process and release long-held patterns.
Increased Symptoms: A Message from the Body
An increase in symptoms after Reiki is often the body’s way of communicating with us. Here’s what these symptoms might be saying:
- The Body Is Releasing Stored Energy
Symptoms such as fatigue, muscle aches, or heightened sensitivity can occur when the body starts to process stored energetic blockages. These sensations might feel uncomfortable in the moment but signify that the body is releasing old stagnation to make way for a more harmonious flow for deeper inner peace. - Old Emotions Are Rising to the Surface
Reiki works on all energetic levels (emotional as well as physical, mental and spiritual) and is unique in creating a safe and nurturing energetic space. Once the body has been allowed to breathe and feel safe, it may finally allow previously suppressed energies or symptoms to emerge. This is often a sign of trust—your system feels ready to address deeper layers of healing that were previously inaccessible This may show up as Increased feelings such as sadness, anger, or anxiety – remembering this is temporary and will pass is key to not compounding or re-suppressing these energies (emotions). - Detoxification of Mind, Body, and Spirit
Just as physical detoxification can lead to temporary discomfort, energetic detoxification can manifest as an increase in symptoms. Whether it’s a headache, digestive upset, or emotional volatility, these signs often indicate that the body is recalibrating itself to a new state of balance.
How to Support Yourself Through the Process
While it’s essential to honour and trust the healing process, there are practical ways to support yourself if symptoms intensify:
- Stay Hydrated: Water aids the body’s natural detoxification process and helps to ground the energies stirred by Reiki.
- Rest: Allow your body the time and space it needs to integrate the changes. Rest is a powerful ally in the healing process. It is not being lazy, it is being clever!
- Journal: Writing about your experiences can help you process any emotions or thoughts that arise post-Reiki.
- Communicate with Your Practitioner: If symptoms feel overwhelming, discuss them with your Reiki practitioner. They can provide insight and may adjust future sessions to address your needs.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Recognise that healing is not always linear. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate this transformative process.
A Shift Towards Wholeness
Ultimately, an increase in symptoms after Reiki is a sign that your body, mind, and spirit are engaging with the healing process. These sensations are not an indication of failure or harm but rather evidence that energetic patterns are shifting. By embracing these changes with curiosity and compassion, we open ourselves to a deeper level of healing and transformation.
Reiki teaches us to trust the wisdom of our bodies, even when the journey feels challenging. Every sensation, every emotion, and every experience post-Reiki is a step closer to greater balance and harmony within ourselves. Listen to your body—it’s speaking to you, guiding you towards wholeness, and as a result ultimate peace through life’s ups and down.
