frequently asked questions
How does REIKI work during covid?
For the safety of all clients, I use PPE (personal protection equipment), such as masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer. I also take your temperature at the start of session and ask quick questions for screening. The massage table or chair is thoroughly sanitized prior to each session. I also ask that you wear a mask, full clothing (as always), and try to minimize contact with me. I also have an optional outdoor reiki setup, which is has high ventilation. For more, see my Services page for outdoor reiki.
What is reiki?
Reiki ("universal life force" in Japanese) is a healing practice, used to facilitate the flow of energy to address physical, spiritual, mental, and even financial challenges. Its historical roots lay in Japan and Tibet, primarily through the work of Usui Mikao and his students. For an easy-to-follow history of reiki, click below for a discussion with Frans Stiene, master reiki practitioner, historian, and Japanese language translator of over 25 years.
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How does it work?
The ​University of Minnesota scientists theorize that reiki balances a "biofield" of energy. Biofield is a "term medical science has adopted for the intricately layered vibrational energy field that is said to surround and penetrate the physical body." Other practices that work with this subtle vibration of biofield energy include acupuncture, qigong, shiatsu, yoga/pranayama, and Healing Touch Program (accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission of Accreditation).
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Is this backed by any scientific evidence?
The Center for Reiki Research is a hub of medical research published in national journals that show the effects of reiki in treatment of various diseases. In 1999, placebo standardization was introduced to study of reiki, meaning that all studies included tests to show the positive effect of reiki wasn't "just in your head," or the effect of placebo.
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What happens during a reiki session?
A hands-on healing session may look like this below. Chair reiki is usually reserved in my practice for more advanced reiki attunement or reiju. Tuning forks use vibration to effect sound healing. Depending on your physical comfort, alternate positions work as well. My goal is to ensure your maximum comfort.
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How did you get trained?
I am honored to say that I am fifth generation from the founder of reiki, trained under Kerri Draper at Huntington Beach Reiki. I was also trained under Anne Reith, Ph.D. at the IMPART Center.
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My reiki lineage (line of teachers, not relatives):
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Usui Mikao
founder of the reiki system
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Kanichi Tak Etomi
3rd president of the usui reiki ryoho gakkai
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Koyama Kimiko
6th president of the usui reiki ryoho gakkai
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Doi Hiroshi
current member of the usui reiki ryoho gakkai
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Frans Stiene
International House of Reiki
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Kerri Draper
Huntington Beach Reiki
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Nat Newton, Ph.D.
Luminous Reiki
"Reiki lineage" describes the line of teachers who trained or "attuned" each student after them. We are not relatives.
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What do you specialize in?
I am a general practitioner. But I was also certified and trained in Kundalini Reiki, Reiki for Depression and Anxiety, Reiki for Reproductive Issues, and Basic Reflexology.
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If Dr. Nat is tired or in "bad energy," will I absorb this energy? Likewise, will I "drain" you due to my bad energy?
Fortunately, reiki does not work like this. Reiki translates to "universal life force," meaning that the energy is infinite. Reiki is not the exchange of energy, either from or to the client. The role of the practitioner is to facilitate connection between the client and the universal life force that is already within and around all of us. We act as an activation system, not a source. Also, as a practitioner, I strive to maintain support systems and routines of well-being in order to serve others best.
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Is reiki a form of Buddhism?
No. The way that reiki is practiced in the West is not embedded in the same cultural context of Japanese Buddhist society where reiki was formalized. However, the esoteric roots of reiki undoubtedly carry Buddhist influence in the philosophical framework of reiki. For example, Buddhist philosophy influences concepts of universal energy, the five precepts, and what I would call manners of being as a practitioner, such as be humble, be compassionate toward yourself and others, and do not anger. See the video above with Frans Stein for more.
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Where does a session take place?
Reiki sessions are conducted in your home or office. However, a healing studio can be arranged for a rental fee.
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When will I see results?
Some of my clients see results immediately, depending on the issue. Other clients take many sessions over months to undo complex and multilayered issues. No specific result is guaranteed. Most clients feel an immediate a sense of well-being, calm, light, and openness, regardless of their original issue. See more on my Testimonials page. Or feel free to contact me for more detail.
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Are you covered by medical insurance?
I am not on any medical insurance panels.
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Are you available for a free consultation?
Yes, my first consultation is free for 15-minutes over phone.
How often should I get reiki treatment?
I leave this up to the client's comfort, as reiki is a form of access to energetic infinity, not a prescription.
How does REIKI work during covid?
For the safety of all clients, I use PPE (personal protection equipment), such as masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer. I also take your temperature at the start of session and ask quick questions for screening. The massage table or chair is thoroughly sanitized prior to each session. I also ask that you wear a mask, full clothing (as always), and try to minimize contact with me. I also have an optional outdoor reiki setup, which is has high ventilation. For more, see my Services page for outdoor reiki.