A Reiki session moves through a sequence of hand positions, resting at each one for a few minutes before moving on. The positions are a well-worn guide rather than a strict rule — the aim is to cover the body gently and evenly, head to toe.
The principle
The hands stay flat, soft, and relaxed, resting lightly on the body or hovering just above it. There is no pressing and no massage. A practitioner usually lingers at each position for as long as it feels active — often three to five minutes — and trusts comfort over the clock. The receiver stays fully clothed throughout.
A full-body sequence
A typical treatment works down the front of the body and then the back. One common sequence looks like this:
Hands rest gently over the top of the head, then softly across the forehead and eyes.
Cupping the sides of the head, framing the temples and ears.
Cradling the base of the skull, a deeply settling position for many.
Hands placed beside — not on — the throat, resting over the collarbones.
Over the centre of the chest, following the natural rise and fall of the breath.
The soft area above the navel, a position often linked with letting go of tension.
Resting over the belly, low and central, grounding the session.
Turning to the back: shoulders, mid-back, and the lower back in turn.
Timing and flow
A full session usually runs forty-five minutes to an hour. Move on when a position feels complete rather than counting minutes, and let the sequence flow smoothly from one place to the next. Many practitioners finish at the feet, or by lightly smoothing down the body, to leave the receiver feeling settled and whole.
This is a general map, not a fixed rule — teachers vary the order, and a hands-on class is the best way to learn the positions in your own hands. Always let the receiver’s comfort guide you.
Frequently asked questions
How long are the hands held in each position?
Often three to five minutes, but a practitioner moves on when a position feels complete rather than counting minutes.
How long does a full session take?
A full session usually runs forty-five minutes to an hour.
Is there any pressure or massage?
No. The hands stay flat, soft and relaxed, resting lightly on the body or hovering just above it, and the receiver stays fully clothed.