Reiki Massage Supports the Client’s Intention

In Reiki Massage, the client reports an intention or desired feeling, in addition to discomforts and health concerns. Each session is customized, based on the client’s current intention and condition. Within the structure of the client’s stated intention, the Practitioner remains open to paths for Reiki healing, while facilitating the desired outcome with congruent thoughts and bodywork.

The client’s intention serves as a mind-body bridge. Intentions set the tone for subsequent behaviors. Electrical and chemical energy of the mind is transmitted to body tissue, such as with the release of adrenaline for a fight-or-flight response. Similarly, the body produces hormones for relaxation.

The emphasis in Reiki Massage is on intention because our thoughts can have a profound effect on our emotions. As with certain sounds, lights, colors or fragrances, thoughts influence how we feel. Accordingly, the Practitioner may suggest breathing from the lower abdomen, an aroma, visualizations of color or desired images and affirmations to enhance the client’s experience. Also, for a unity of mental and physiological components, the Practitioner offers a silent prayer in support of the client’s intention.

Like Reiki and the power of prayer, intention is an invisible energy force. Reiki Massage distinguishes itself from other wellness practices by its focus on intention. The Practitioner is freed from extensive diagnosis, trusting that the client and Reiki guides know what is best for health and well being. Reiki Massage cannot be used to go against one’s will. By basing the session on the client’s intention, it is less likely that the client’s beliefs or values will be violated.

The Practitioner guides the client to assume responsibility for the desired intention. In Reiki Massage, it is up to the client to let go of thoughts that may be a block to healing and relaxation. The client’s body and mind are invited to release attachments to unhealthy habits and tension. Because the most important healing comes from within, the Practitioner must sometimes educate clients to awaken and utilize their internal healing powers.

To compliment subtle energy work, Reiki Massage may include supportive and respectful strokes, light and rhythmic compressions, and mild stretches for flexibility and relaxation. The movements and hand positions are pure, because they are right for the time and place. They are also pure in that they convey a message beyond that of any language, connecting the Practitioner and client in profound ways. The Practitioner’s hands are also held for a few minutes on various energy points of the client. Universal life-energy, through the Practitioner’s hands, is guided by a healing intention.

The Reiki Massage Practitioner uses only enough physical effort to be effective, while being mindful of the client’s intention and energy dynamics. Unlike some Asian and Western pressure-point modalities, it involves no forceful actions. It does not rely on vigorous or rapid soft-tissue manipulation, such as petrissage or tapotement, which can create hyperemia and could cause bruising on a client taking a nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drug or anticoagulant such as aspirin or ibuprofen. By avoiding excessive pressure or stretching, it minimizes risk of tissue damage and bruising, particularly of clients taking muscle relaxants, narcotic analgesics or corticosteroids.