What to Expect at Your First Reiki Session
At your first Reiki session, you'll lie fully clothed on a comfortable treatment table while Sonia places her hands lightly on or just above your body. There's nothing you need to do — no experience, no belief, no preparation beyond wearing comfortable clothing and arriving with an open mind. Most first-time clients leave feeling calm, lighter, and genuinely surprised by how relaxing it was.
For those who may find it difficult to get on to or lay down on the table, Reiki can be also done with you seated comfortably in a chair.
Before Your Session
- →Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing — you stay fully dressed
- →Avoid a heavy meal in the hour before your appointment
- →Drink water before and after your session
- →Arrive a few minutes early to settle in
- →No prior knowledge of Reiki is needed — just an open mind
During Your Session
Sonia will begin with a brief intake conversation — a few minutes to understand what you're hoping to address. Then you'll lie on the treatment table, close your eyes, and simply rest. Soft music plays in the background. The room is warm and quiet.
Sonia moves through a series of hand positions on or just above your head, shoulders, chest, abdomen, and legs. You may feel warmth, gentle tingling, or a wave of deep relaxation. Many first-timers drift into a light sleep.
The treatment itself lasts approximately 45 minutes for a 60-minute session, or 75 minutes for a 90-minute session.
After Your Session
Sonia will gently bring the session to a close and give you a moment to return to full awareness. She may share any observations and answer questions. You'll be offered water.
Most clients feel calm, clear, and lighter. Some feel tired — this is normal and passes within a day. Drink plenty of water and rest if you can. The effects of a session often continue to unfold over the following 24–48 hours.
Common First-Timer Questions
What should I expect at my first Reiki session?
You'll arrive, have a brief chat with Sonia about what you're hoping to address, then lie fully clothed on a comfortable treatment table. Sonia will place her hands lightly on or just above your body for 45–60 minutes. Most first-timers feel deeply relaxed, warm, or tingly. Afterward, you'll have a moment to return to full awareness before leaving.
Do I need to believe in Reiki for it to work?
No. You don't need any prior knowledge of or belief in Reiki. An open mind and a willingness to relax are all that's needed. Many clients who were initially sceptical have found Reiki deeply beneficial.
What should I bring to my first session?
Just yourself. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You may want to avoid a heavy meal in the hour before your session. Arrive a few minutes early so you can settle in without feeling rushed.
Is it normal to feel emotional during or after Reiki?
Yes. Emotional releases — tears, laughter, or a sense of relief — are common and completely normal. Reiki can surface emotions that have been held in the body. This is part of the healing process.
Ready for Your First Session?
Sonia's Healing Place serves Quinte West, Trenton, and Belleville, Ontario. Call 613-242-0922 or book online.
Book Your First Session