Frequently Asked Questions
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a gentle hands-on healing practice rooted in relaxation and natural wellness, founded in Japan in the early 20th century. The word itself offers a clue to its nature: rei translates as wondrous or universal energy, while ki refers to the vital energy present in all living things. Reiki is a gentle hands-on therapy. Reiki can do no harm—its only goal is the highest level of healing.
How does Reiki work?
Reiki creates an energy shift. It may be subtle or even imperceptible, but the energy that enters the body supports the body’s natural capacity to heal—like a tuning fork, helping the body, mind, and spirit of the recipient access and activate a healing power already within them. The comfort that human touch can bring, coupled with a higher vibrational life-force energy, forms the basis for this healing therapy.
What does Reiki feel like?
Everyone has their own unique response to Reiki. Reiki can be profoundly relaxing and recipients do often fall asleep. Some do not physically feel anything at all; others may experience a warm sensation, pulsation, or a tingling. Perceptions may be subtle or pronounced—and all responses are equally valid.
Can anyone learn Reiki?
Yes—people of any age, background, or state of health can learn Reik, including young children. Learning Reiki begins with self-practice, which is a meaningful foundation in itself, regardless of whether the student later chooses to work with others. After the initial class training, Reiki continues to teach the student—the more they practice, the more they learn. Anne remains available to her students between and after classes to support their continued growth. She also offers free monthly Student Shares to answer any questions, lead discussion of experiences, and support practice of skills.
What happens during a Reiki session?
During a session, you lie fully clothed on a table, covered with a sheet or blanket. Anne places her hands in a gentle sequence of positions on the head, chest, torso, and back — typically three to five minutes in each position. A full appointment is 90 minutes, with 75 minutes on the table. Anne encourages questions and conversation to be saved for after the session, so you can remain relaxed throughout. After the session, some people feel deeply relaxed and at ease, while others feel quietly energized. Drinking water afterwards is always encouraged to flush any toxins that have been released.
What should I do to prepare for a session?
No special preparation is required. Simply plan to arrive a few minutes early so you can settle in without rushing. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, and avoid heavy meals immediately beforehand. If you have any special needs, feel free to share them with Anne when booking your session—this helps her support you most effectively.
Can Reiki be used as a complementary or integrative therapy alongside more traditional treatments?
Yes. Reiki can help to enhance medical treatments and reduce potential side effects. It fosters relaxation and a sense of well-being that supports a wide range of other therapies, including medication, surgery, physical therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, and counseling. If you have any special needs, feel free to share them with Anne when booking your session—this helps her support you most effectively.
Is Reiki safe during pregnancy or serious illness?
Yes. Because Reiki is entirely gentle and non-invasive, it is safe to receive at any stage of pregnancy and can be a wonderful source of comfort and calm. It is also appropriate for people experiencing serious illness, and may be offered as a complement to medical care—not as a replacement for your doctor’s care. If you have specific health concerns, please first consult your physician. Anne is then happy to discuss them with you before your session to support you most effectively.
How is Reiki different from massage?
While both practices involve touch and promote relaxation, they are quite different in intention and technique. Massage works physically with the muscles and soft tissues of the body. Reiki, by contrast, works with the body’s subtle energy—the hands are placed gently on the body, without manipulation or pressure. You remain fully clothed throughout a Reiki session.
How many sessions will I need?
Every person and every situation is different, so there is no single answer. Some people feel a meaningful shift after one session; others find that a series of sessions deepens the benefit over time. Anne is happy to talk with you about what might be most supportive for your individual needs and goals.
Where are sessions held, and what should I wear?
Sessions are held in Anne’s studio Ventana al Cielo Studio, 911 Tanglewood Lane, Kerrville, TX 78028. The setting is calm and private, designed to help you feel at ease the moment you arrive. Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, and shoes easily removed—you will remain fully clothed throughout the session.
How do I know if Reiki is right for me?
If you are drawn to Reiki—even out of simple curiosity—that is often reason enough to try it. Reiki is gentle, non-invasive, and appropriate for virtually anyone. The best way to discover whether it resonates with you is to experience it. Anne welcomes questions and is happy to speak with you before you book your first session.
What is a Reiki attunement?
As students advance through the degrees of Reiki, they receive what is called an attunement — sometimes referred to as an initiation — from a Reiki Master. This process reconnects us with our natural capacity for healing, allowing us to align permanently with the healing vibration of Reiki energy. Each level of training includes its own attunement, opening the student’s ability to channel this energy for their own wellness and, if they choose, for others.
What is the difference between Reiki I, II, and Master training?
Each level of Reiki training builds on the one before it, opening new dimensions of practice and understanding. A full description of each level—including what is covered, what students experience, and what each prepares you for—can be found on the Reiki 3 Degrees page.
Do I need any experience before taking Reiki I?
No experience is needed before taking Reiki I training—no advanced knowledge or prior background of any kind. Anne encourages students to arrive open and ready to develop energy- and self-awareness for the purpose of healing, setting aside expectations and stepping in with fresh curiosity.
Is Reiki a religion?
No. Reiki is an energy-healing practice, not a religion. It carries no dogma and requires no particular belief system. However, it’s worth noting that many people find Reiki naturally nurtures and supports their spiritual life, whatever form that takes.


