Cleveland Clinic explains: 

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Reiki has roots in ancient Japanese healing practices and is considered a form of energy healing. It stems from the Japanese words “rei,” meaning universal, and “ki,” meaning vital life force energy.

The theory is that a Reiki master (a practitioner trained in Reiki) can channel the “universal life force energy” to you. They say they do this by either lightly placing their hands on you or by hovering them just above you, using a series of hand positions. Some people will call these techniques:

• Centering

• Clearing

• Beaming

• Smoothing the aura

Reiki masters say they don’t create energy or give their energy to you. Rather, they say they act as a “conduit” for the universal life force energy that exists around us.

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WebMD states: 

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Reiki therapy is based on an Eastern belief that vital energy flows through your body. The idea is that a person who specializes in reiki treatment, referred to as a reiki master, uses gentle touch – or places their hands just above your body – to help guide this energy in a way that leads to balance and healing.

While there’s no research to show that the energy field involved in reiki exists, you may find it relaxing.

Reiki has been studied for conditions like pain, anxiety, and depression. It’s a complementary treatment, which means you use it along with proven traditional medical treatments. It doesn’t cure or get rid of any health conditions by itself.