Yes, distant Reiki absolutely works. While it may seem counter-intuitive, the practice of “absent healing” is a foundational component of Reiki Level II training. It operates on the principle that energy is not bound by physical location. As a Reiki Master-Teacher, I use distant healing frequently, and in my experience, the energy is just as powerful and effective as it is in an in-person session. The recipient receives the full benefit of the healing, whether they are in the next room or on the other side of the world.
The Principle: How Distant Reiki Works
The entire practice of distant Reiki hinges on a concept that is core to many spiritual traditions: we are all interconnected within a universal energy field. Just as a Wi-Fi signal is “sent” from a router to your device, Reiki energy can be “sent” by a practitioner to a recipient. The connection is not physical, but energetic.
Transcending Time and Space
In Reiki, the concept of separation is an illusion. There is no “here” and “there.” This principle also applies to time. An adept practitioner can send Reiki to support a person through a future event (like a surgery or job interview) or to help heal the energetic imprint of a past trauma.
The Key: The Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen Symbol
This practice is not just wishful thinking; it is a specific technique that is taught and attuned during Reiki Level II (the practitioner level). Students are given the “keys” to this practice in the form of sacred symbols, and the most important one for this purpose is Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen.
This complex symbol is an energetic “key” or “bridge.” Its name is often translated as, “No past, no present, no future.” When a practitioner activates this symbol, it allows them to create a direct, instantaneous connection to the recipient’s energy field, bypassing all physical limitations.
Distant Reiki Healing Techniques
When I prepare for a distant healing session, I create a sacred, focused space just as I would for an in-person client. I set a clear intention for the recipient’s highest good. Then, I form an astral, energetic link to “bridge” our energy fields. From there, I use one of several common techniques to transfer the healing energy.
While personally I don’t use the Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen symbol (I simply do not need it), some practitioners find it very helpful. Bear in mind, however, that the symbol is there to trigger the healing power that already lies within you. Some find it supportive, while others say it doesn’t make any difference for them.
Using a Proxy (Photo or Object)
This is the most common method. A “proxy” (or surrogate) is a physical object used to represent the client.
- A Photograph: The practitioner can hold a photo of the recipient and send Reiki to it.
- A Teddy Bear or Pillow: Some practitioners use a teddy bear or cushion. We intend for this object to represent the client, and then we perform all the standard hand positions on the proxy, just as if the client were physically on the table.
- The Practitioner’s Own Body: A practitioner can also use their own knee or thigh as a proxy to represent the client’s body.
Visualization and Intention
An experienced practitioner may not need a physical proxy. Instead, they will:
- Enter a meditative state.
- Clearly visualize the recipient in their mind’s eye.
- “Beam” the Reiki energy to the person, often visualizing them being filled with healing, white light.
The specific technique is a matter of practitioner preference. The mechanism—intention + the Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen symbol—is what makes it work. Advanced practitioners and masters (including me) may not even rely on the Reiki distant healing symbol at all; they simply focus, visualize, and send the energy to the recipient.
Distant Reiki vs. In-Person Reiki
This is the most common question I receive. Is one “better” than the other? My answer is no—they are just different experiences.
A Note on Efficacy
The energy itself is equally powerful. In some cases, distant Reiki can feel more potent because it is pure, unadulterated energy. It is not “filtered” through the physical presence of the client and practitioner. It is a direct energetic transmission.
The Client Experience
The main difference is the subjective experience for the client.
- In-Person Sessions offer the significant, added psychological comfort of physical presence, a safe environment, and (if used) gentle, therapeutic touch. For those who need to “get away” from their home to relax, this is ideal.
- Distant Sessions offer profound convenience. The client can receive the healing energy in the comfort of their own bed or favorite chair, without having to travel. This is perfect for those who are hospitalized, have mobility issues, live far away, or simply prefer not to be touched.
During the appointed time, the recipient’s only job is to sit or lie down quietly and be open to receiving. Most people report the same sensations they would in person: a feeling of deep, profound relaxation, sudden warmth, gentle tingling, or simply falling into a peaceful sleep.
As a Reiki Master-Teacher, I am passionate about making healing accessible. This is why I offer private Reiki sessions both in-person and remotely. I also teach these powerful techniques in my Reiki Level II attunements to empower others to share this gift across any distance.
