The practice of Reiki is an original method of healing, believed to come from ancient texts and developed by Mikao Usui in Japan during the early part of the 20th century.

As a therapy, Reiki is an effective and simple way of tapping into the universal energy, and transferring it for the benefit of the receiver, to stimulate the body's own natural healing potential. It is the recipient that heals not the practitioner.

The energy of Reiki can be used for many different reasons including reducing stress or tension, balance the emotions and free us from restrictive mental attitudes. Reiki healing may also provide a closer connection with inner wisdom.

Reiki healing energy is gently and may be used safely by all ages, including the newborn, pregnant mothers, surgical patients, the frail and the elderly, regardless of their state of health. Reiki healing can enhance everyday day and has been of benefit to clients with chronic fatigue syndrome and ME.

Reik is being used in GP surgeries, hospices, cancer support groups, post-operative recovery, drug rehabilitation, prisons, HIV/AIDS centres, and the care of the elderly.

What happens during a session?
Initially Frances will take a case history and explain about Reiki healing energy and Mikao Usui's method of healing. She will then ask you to lay on a couch for 45-50mins or if this is unconfortable, you will be asked to sit upright in a chair.

Frances will place her hands gently in a series of positions, on or over the body and the client's system automatically draws in the Reiki healing energy as is needed, using it in whatever way is most appropriate at the time.

Some people describe Reiki as a flow of energy, mild tingling, warmth, coolness and other sensations or nothing at all. Reiki is deeply relaxing, eases stress and has a calming effect. Clients are advised to drink plenty of water following a treatment to allow the body to detox. The beneficial effects may be felt for several days.

Frances Watkins has been practising Reiki healing since 2002 and teaches Reiki at the Bushey Practice, Magpie Hall Road, Bushey Heath.

A 45 min Reiki session costs £40 - please allow up to 60 min for each appointment. To find out more about Reiki healing call Frances on .