Hands-on Reiki is a popular service in my practice. A lot of new clients are surprised to learn that it’s an option. Apparently many practitioners use a hands-off approach. That might be the protocol in their lineage, absurd state regulation or personal preference; I can’t say for sure. I don’t think I’ve ever met a Reiki practitioner who operated exclusively hands-off.

I find that resting my hands gently on a client during a session just feels right, but then again, I’m a massage therapist and quite comfortable touching people. Clients report that the connection provided by intentional touch adds an additional element of healing to the wonderful healing qualities of Reiki. I suspect that might be oxytocin, AKA the love hormone, at work. At least in part.

Of course there are times when touch is inappropriate- such as when working on the pelvic floor, sunburn or rashes, or a client’s aversion. These situations are easily accommodated and the practitioner can hover their hands above the body, or beam the energy from across the room (or globe, but that’s another story!).

For those who are touch-deprived, or merely find it comforting to feel the warmth and added reminder that a caring, nurturing person is nearby, hands may be gently placed on the body. You can always ask the practitioner what their policy is before scheduling a session. I primarily practice hands-on, unless the client prefers hands-off, or there’s another reason to avoid contact.

Let’s face it- we need all the healing benefits we can get these days, and if simple human contact is of benefit to you, please know that you can have your Reiki and touch too.