Curious About Reiki?
You don't have to believe in it to explore it.
Reiki may sound unconventional—and that's okay. This page is for the curious, the skeptical, and everyone in between.
Be curious. Ask questions. Explore. Decide for yourself.
Okay... Reiki sounds a little woo-woo.
I get it.
Energy work isn't familiar to everyone. You don't have to share my spiritual beliefs—or even be sure what you think about Reiki—to explore it.
I'm a spiritual person, but I also have a background in psychology and believe in asking questions, looking at evidence, and being honest about what we know and what we don't.
Reiki has been scientifically studied, particularly in people. Some research has reported promising findings in areas such as relaxation, anxiety, pain, and quality of life, while the overall evidence is still developing.
Research specifically involving animals is much more limited.
Animal Reiki in the Real World
Sometimes the most interesting way to explore something unfamiliar is simply to see how others have experienced it.
Animal caregivers, shelter volunteers, practitioners, and organizations have shared their experiences offering Reiki to animals—from frightened shelter cats to sanctuary animals.
These stories aren't scientific proof. They're observations and experiences. I think they're worth exploring.
Psychology Today
Reiki for Animals: The Power of Peace to Heal
A conversation with Animal Reiki practitioner Kathleen Prasad about an approach that allows animals to participate on their own terms—including choosing whether to approach, remain at a distance, move around, or accept touch.
Forbes
Volunteer Calms Shelter Cats With Innovative Approach: Reiki
The article follows Aurora González, a volunteer at a Best Friends Pet Adoption Center in New York City who offers Reiki to shelter cats. She describes frightened or stressed cats approaching her, settling on her lap, falling asleep during sessions, and becoming more comfortable engaging with people.
Best Friends Animal Society
Reiki for Animals
A firsthand look at Reiki being offered to animals at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and the observations of people caring for those animals.
Reiki Beyond the Animal World
International Center for Reiki Training
“Reiki in Hospitals”
This article explores how Reiki has been incorporated alongside conventional medical care in a number of U.S. hospital and clinical settings. It shares experiences from nurses, physicians, Reiki practitioners, and patients, including programs where Reiki was offered for relaxation, comfort, stress, and patient well-being.
Still Curious?
Give it a try!
If you're curious about Animal Reiki, you're welcome to try two complimentary sessions and observe your animal for yourself. There's no obligation to continue afterward.