10 Reiki Myths That Call for Busting

Being a well-known energy healing method, Reiki often gets misunderstood because we're dealing with something that's beyond our five senses. As a result, some see it as magic, religious, or a blatant scam.

Misinformation can lead to doubt, so it’s time to clear up the most common myths surrounding Reiki. Here, we separate fact from fiction to give you a better understanding of what Reiki truly is.

Myth 1: Reiki Is a Religion

Far from it, Reiki is not linked to any religion or belief system. It is a practice that recognises there's energy in the universe which can be used by anyone, regardless of their faith or background. While some people incorporate Reiki into their spiritual journey, it does not require religious belief to be effective.

Myth 2: Reiki Healers Have Supernatural Powers

I wish we did but fact is, Reiki does not involve magic or supernatural abilities. Reiki healers neither use their own superhuman ability nor do they possess special powers, so please don't ask them to diagnose your disease. Instead, they act as channels for universal energy, directing it to where it is needed. Anyone can learn Reiki with proper training by a Reiki Master Teacher.

Myth 3: Reiki Can Cure Any Illness

Reiki is not a substitute for medical treatment. While it can support the body’s natural healing process, it does not replace medicine or professional healthcare. Many people use Reiki alongside conventional treatments to reduce stress and improve well-being, but it is not a guaranteed cure for diseases.

Myth 4: You Must Believe in Reiki for It to Work

Skepticism is natural, but Reiki does not rely on belief to be effective. Many people who were unsure at first have reported feeling relaxed or noticing positive effects after a session. Reiki works by encouraging balance and relaxation, whether or not the person believes in it.

The common WiFi serves as a great example here. It's in every household, everyone uses it, but few people truly understand how it works. Is its effectiveness dependent on your faith? Certainly not!

Myth 5: Reiki Is the Same as Massage

Both Reiki and massage helps you relax but they are wildly different practices. Massage involves physical manipulation of the muscles, while Reiki works with energy flow. Reiki practitioners place their hands lightly on or above the body, without applying pressure or movement.

Myth 6: Reiki Is Only for Physical Healing

Reiki actually supports overall well-being, not just physical health. Many people use it for emotional balance, stress relief, and mental clarity. Many find that it helps them feel more focused, centred, and calm in their daily lives.

Myth 7: Only Special People Can Learn Reiki

This couldn't be further from the truth. Anyone can learn Reiki! It does not require special skills or prior experience. With the right training and guidance, anyone can practice Reiki, whether for personal use or to help others. Many people learn Reiki for self-care and later choose to share it with family or clients.

Myth 8: Reiki Is Just a Placebo Effect

The relaxation and stress reduction people experience from Reiki are very real. While science does not fully understand how Reiki works, and even the founder Mikao Usui doesn't, studies suggest that it can promote relaxation, lower stress levels, and improve well-being. Thanks to its qualities, Reiki has helped many people feel better.

In fact... did you know research has proven that Reiki is more effective than placebo?

Myth 9: Reiki Works Instantly and Solves Everything

Yet another Reiki myth... Reiki is far from a quick fix. While some people feel immediate relaxation, deeper changes can take some time. Like meditation or other healing practices, Reiki often works best with regular sessions. Hence, to make Reiki therapy sustainable, it's highly recommended that you learn Reiki and practice it on your own... for FREE!

Myth 10: Reiki Requires Physical Contact to Be Effective

Reiki can be performed with or without physical touch. Some practitioners place their hands lightly on the body, while others work with hands slightly above it. Reiki can also be sent over a distance, as energy is not limited by physical space. Many people report feeling its effects even when there is no direct contact.