How does Reiki Work? Exploring the Energy Flow Dynamics of a Reiki Session

Elevated Vibrations
Feb 22
2 min read

February 22, 2026

By Jess Smith,

Reiki Master, CEA (Chief Energy Alchemist) and Owner at Elevated Vibrations Collective

Reiki, a form of energy healing, might seem mysterious to those unfamiliar with its practices. It’s often misunderstood as a practice that drains the practitioner, but in reality, the experience is quite the opposite. Let's delve into how Reiki works and why both practitioners and clients find it so rejuvenating.

WHAT IS REIKI?

Becoming a Reiki Practitioner

To become a Reiki practitioner, one undergoes an initiation process known as an attunement. This involves the opening of the persons energy pathways and aligning the chakras, allowing the individual to become a channel for Reiki energy.

Reiki, also called “universal life force energy” is channeled through the Reiki practitioner from the source to the client in its purest form.

The Misconception of Energy Drain

A common question posed to Reiki practitioners is whether the practice exhausts them. The truth is, instead of depleting energy, Reiki actually revitalizes both the practitioner and the client.

When I perform a Reiki session, I’m not giving you my personal energy; rather, I’m serving as a conduit for Reiki energy. This energy flows through me to you, creating a healing experience for both parties involved.

As a result, I often feel more invigorated post-session than I did before.

Me, after giving two Reiki sessions!

The Practitioner’s Experience

Outside of my Reiki practice, I have a physically demanding full-time job. Surprisingly, weekends filled with multiple Reiki sessions often leave me feeling more relaxed and rejuvenated compared to weekends spent resting without clients.

The act of channeling Reiki energy seems to replenish my spirit, providing a sense of peace and vitality that carries over into my workweek.

Addressing Client Concerns

Another frequent concern potential clients express is the fear of transferring their negative energy to the practitioner.

Rest assured, the Reiki process does not involve swapping energies. Instead, it’s more of a one-way street where the practitioner channels healing energy (Reiki) to the client.

Although I may sense a client's energy through visions, emotions, or sensations, I can distinguish between their energy and my own.

Their energy does not penetrate my being, nor do we exchange energies.

The Joy of Practicing Reiki

Practicing Reiki brings me immense joy, a sentiment shared by many other practitioners. The process not only helps others but also nurtures my well-being, creating a harmonious cycle of healing and rejuvenation.

Ready to Experience Reiki?

If you’re curious about Reiki, why not give it a try?