You may have heard the word "reiki" thrown around here and there, but may not have known what it means. Dr. Oz spoke about using a Reiki healer while performing a surgery on a cardiac patient, but what does it all mean? Reiki is a Japanese word, pronounced "ray-kee." The "Rei" means universal and the "ki" meaning "life-force energy." Reiki is a natural therapy that works to balance, realign, and recharge the mind, body, and spirit on all levels. It is not a religious practice nor a massage or physical manipulation. The benefits of Reiki are numerous, according to "The Healing Power of Reiki" by Raven Keyes, Reiki eases aches and pains, relaxes muscles and reduces tension, relieves fatigue, balances energy, relaxes the body and mind, promotes a feeling of calmness and well-being, encourages emotional release, soothes emotional distress, and promotes peace

Reiki is a simple, natural healing system. During a Reiki session, the practitioner positions their hands at the various energy centers of the body, this activates the flow of energy or ones' "chi." During this time one may feel a sensation or warmth, a pulsating rhythm, tingling or calmness, and relaxation. It is also effective at reducing anxiety and inducing relaxation and balance. You're probably reading this and thinking "Okay awesome, sounds cool, but it definitely doesn't work," and I totally get where you're coming from. My mom is a certified Reiki master and at first, even though I never admitted it to her, I didn't believe in it at all. It wasn't until I caved and finally went to a session that I fully appreciated and understood what my mom had been talking about for weeks.

Prior to moving into college, I had been suffering from anxiety over the big transition, so my mom suggested I go to a session, at first I was hesitant, but then thought that nothing negative could come from the session. I went in with an open mind and for some reason the curiosity over what color my aura is. The session is 90 minutes, you lay on your back for half and then your stomach for the other half. I know what you're probably thinking: Laying completely still for ninety minutes not doing anything must be unbearable! But I can honestly say it was probably the most relaxing and comfortable experience for my life.

I kept my eyes closed during the session so I could fully relax, and during this time I kept seeing the color green over and over. Before the session, the practitioner explained that I may see colors, feel things, or hear sounds during the session and that I should bring it up after to discuss. During the session, the practitioner said she picked up on energy blockages showing up in my throat and heart chakras, she related this, in detail, to a falling out months before with a friend and a boy. This immediately shocked me as nobody had informed her about this experience prior to the session. She explained to me that she would be clearing both of these chakras, as she did it I immediately began to cry, but at the same time felt relieved as well as happy.

The session soon ended and she explained to me that my anxiety had been over my transition into college but she ensured me that the universe and guiding spirits would help me on my journey. (I know I sound crazy but this was super cool). Before walking out, she looked at me and said, "Oh and by the way, they said your aura is green." My mouth immediately dropped, as I had completely forgotten to mention her that during the entire session I kept seeing green. She went on to explain that a green aura relates to one's throat and heart chakra which she cleared during my session. I left the session feeling completely relaxed, and for the first time in months, not anxious. It was the most eye-opening experience I've ever had. My mom later went into detail explaining the universe and how the energy you put out is the energy you in turn receive.

Since my first session, I have gone back to receive another, and am planning on going again during winter break. I'm also planning on taking a class this summer in order to become Reiki certified, but until then I've just been telling my story to whoever will listen with the hope that it peaks their interest and motivates them to go and have an as amazing experience as I did.