Demystifying the Reiki Experience: What Are Those Symbols All About?

Celine Veloso
Jan 20
3 min read

If you are new to energy healing, walking into your first session can feel like stepping into the unknown. You might have seen artistic symbols on a practitioner’s wall or heard them mention a "symbol" during a treatment. For some, this feels mysterious; for others, it can be a little intimidating.

At Reiki with Celine, I believe that healing happens best when you feel safe and informed. Let’s take a closer look at what these symbols actually are and why they are a positive, grounded part of your wellness journey.

1. Are Reiki Symbols "Magic"?

It’s a common question, especially if you’ve seen Reiki portrayed in movies or on social media. Many people worry that symbols are part of a "spell" or a supernatural ritual.

The Reality: There is no magic involved. In a professional setting, Reiki symbols are cognitive tools—mental shortcuts that help the practitioner stay present.

Think of it like an athlete using a specific mental "cue" before a big game, or a surgeon following a specific checklist. The symbols help the practitioner "tune in" to a specific type of frequency, such as relaxation or emotional support, ensuring your session is high-quality and focused.

2. The Science of Focused Intention

While the symbols themselves aren't "power sources," the intention behind them has measurable effects. When a practitioner uses these tools to maintain a deep state of mindfulness, it creates a "coherence" in the room.

Research in the field of Biofield Therapy suggests that when a practitioner is deeply focused and calm, the client’s nervous system begins to mimic that calmness. This is called entrainment.

Heart Rate Variability (HRV) improves.
Cortisol (stress hormone) levels drop.
The Parasympathetic Nervous System (your "Rest and Digest" mode) activates.

The symbols are simply the "steering wheel" the practitioner uses to guide the session toward these results.

3. Why You Might Hear or See Symbols During a Session

During your time on the table, you might notice your practitioner making a small hand gesture or pausing in silence. Here is what is actually happening:

Customizing Your Care: One symbol might be used to help with physical tension, while another is used for mental clarity. Your practitioner is "switching tools" to give you exactly what your body needs in that moment.
Creating a "Container": Some symbols are used at the beginning and end of a session to "seal" the space, making sure you feel grounded and refreshed before you head back out into the world.
Distance Healing: If you are receiving a session from home, practitioners use a specific "connecting" symbol. Think of this like a digital bridge—it’s a mental tool that helps the practitioner focus on your energy even when you aren't in the same room.

4. You Don't Need to "Believe" for it to Work

One of the best things about Reiki is that you don't need to understand the symbols, and you don't even need to believe in them. Because Reiki works by calming the nervous system, your body will respond to the relaxation regardless of how much you know about the "technical" side of the practice.

The symbols are for the practitioner's benefit—your only job is to lie back, breathe, and enjoy the peace.

Your Path to Peace Starts Here

At Reiki with Celine, my goal is to provide a grounded, professional experience that leaves you feeling lighter and more centered. I prioritize transparency and ethics, so you never have to wonder what is happening during your session.

Whether you’re dealing with daily stress, emotional hurdles, or just need an hour of deep rest, I am here to support you.