Reiki Program

Reiki (pronounced “ray-key”) in Japanese means “universal life force energy,” which is described as the energy flowing through all living things. Reiki is a relaxation technique that supports the body's natural ability to balance itself and to experience a sense of well-being. It is a simple, gentle and safe “hands-on” technique that promotes stress reduction for those who receive it. Reiki provides the patient with a few quiet moments away from the hospital routine to refocus and relax.

The person receiving Reiki is fully clothed during a Reiki session. The practitioner will discuss hand placement prior to the session, so you will know what to expect. They can also help answer any questions you might have. During a Reiki session, the practitioner will place their hands lightly on or above different areas of your body. Usually, the practitioner’s hands rest on or above an area for three to five minutes before moving on to the next area. There is no specific order to the locations where the practitioner’s hands are placed. Sessions last from approximately five to 20 minutes.

The person receiving Reiki can be in any position that is comfortable and may change positions during a session, if desired. Whether you are lying down or sitting, this is a time for you to relax. You can close your eyes, take relaxing breaths and allow the Reiki to provide whatever it is that you need for the moment or the day. You may have your session accompanied by music or in silence.

The most common sensations described as being felt during a Reiki session are warmth, coolness, gentle tingling and/or pulsation in particular areas of the body. This is usually felt just below the area where the practitioner’s hands are placed. You may feel a sense of deep relaxation and well-being. Other times, you may feel nothing at all. You may also experience something different during each Reiki session.

Trained Reiki practitioners who volunteer to staff the program provide Reiki sessions four days a week.

The program's services are free of charge.

Please speak with your nurse, social worker or doctor if you would like to request a complimentary Reiki session. You can also contact Joyce Delgardo, the Reiki Program Coordinator, by phone (617-667-5831) or email (jdelgard@bidmc.harvard.edu) for more information about Reiki.