Embarking on your Reiki journey is both exciting and transformative. As a beginner, you may experience moments of doubt, confusion, or even imposter syndrome—especially when you start working with others. But these challenges are a natural part of the process.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
- Imposter syndrome in Reiki (and why it’s normal)
- Common challenges for new practitioners
- Spiritual growth through Reiki practice
- Reiki as an embodied practice (not just a technique)
- A gentle way to begin working with others
1. Imposter Syndrome: "Am I Really a Healer?"
Many new Reiki practitioners worry:
- "What if I’m not doing it right?"
- "What if nothing happens?"
- "Am I really channeling energy, or is it just my imagination?"
These thoughts are common, especially in the beginning. Remember:
- Reiki is intelligent energy - it flows where it’s needed, with or without your "effort."
- Trust the attunement - your connection to Reiki was opened during your training.
- You don’t control the energy; you facilitate it.
Trust yourself, during your training you will learn how to be with your own experience and trust the process.
In Reiki I, you will keep case studies of your own experiences, which help grow your confidence and knowledge. You will be working with friends and family, who will be the most understanding and allowing (possibly!).
2. Common Challenges for Beginners
A. Feeling "Nothing" During Sessions
Some days, you might not sense heat, tingling, or energy flow—that’s okay! Reiki works even if you don’t feel it physically.
What to do:
- Relax and trust the process.
- Focus on intention rather than sensation.
- Come back to your own sensation, using the exercises in your training.
B. Overthinking Hand Positions
Strict hand placements are guidelines, not rules. If you feel drawn to place your hands elsewhere, trust your intuition.
C. Doubting Your Abilities
Reiki is a practice, not perfection. Even seasoned practitioners continue learning.
3. Spiritual Growth Through Reiki
Reiki isn’t just about healing others—it’s a path of personal transformation.
How Reiki supports your growth:
- Deepens intuition – You become more sensitive to energy.
- Encourages self-healing – Regular self-Reiki brings emotional and spiritual insights.
- Promotes mindfulness – Reiki teaches presence and surrender.
In your training you will be shown many exercises on how to connect to your own energy and experience, all of which will deepen your practice of Reiki. This is the nature of Reiki I and beyond.
4. Reiki as an Embodied Practice
Reiki isn’t just a technique—it’s a way of being. The more you practice, the more it becomes part of your daily life.
How to embody Reiki:
- Practice self-Reiki daily
- Bring Reiki into everyday actions (e.g. sending Reiki to your food, your commute, or stressful situations).
- Let go of expectations—allow the energy to flow naturally.
5. How to Start Working with Others (Without Overwhelm)
My training is trauma-informed, which means you work at a pace that your nervous system can hold, within your own capacity. In this space, you will find your own natural growth (and healing awareness too).
Step 1: Start with Friends & Family
Offer short (15-20 min) sessions to people you trust. Explain that you’re still learning—most will be happy to support you.
Step 2: Keep It Simple
- Use basic hand positions.
- Don’t worry about "fixing" anything—just let Reiki flow.
Step 3: Reflect & Learn
After each session, jot down:
- What you noticed (energy sensations, intuitive messages).
- How the recipient felt afterward.
Over time, your confidence will grow naturally.
During your training you will be given full support on how to deepen your understanding at a pace that is right for you.
Final Thoughts
Every Reiki master was once a beginner. Imposter syndrome, challenges, and self-doubt are part of the journey—but so are profound healing and spiritual growth.
Your Reiki practice is unique to you. Trust the process, be patient with yourself, and let the energy guide you.