The Healing Crisis
Why You Feel Worse Before You Feel Better
Feeling worse after Reiki is called a healing crisis. It is temporary. Your body is releasing stored tension and emotions.
According to Reiki practitioners, the body is processing the energy. Stored toxins and emotions are surfacing. The symptoms may include fatigue, emotional release, mild headaches, or temporary worsening of symptoms.
The healing crisis usually lasts 24-48 hours. It is a sign of healing. It is not a problem. It is a good sign.
The Healing Crisis
Temporary worsening before improvement.
Baseline
How you felt before Reiki.
Temporary Worsening
Healing crisis. Fatigue, emotional release, mild discomfort. Lasts hours to days.
Improvement
New baseline. Reduced symptoms. Greater well-being.
Not linear
Healing is rarely straight line. Ups and downs are normal.
The Process
Understanding the Healing Crisis
A healing crisis is a temporary worsening of symptoms after a healing session. It is common in many healing modalities, not just Reiki.
The theory is that as the body shifts into healing mode, it releases stored toxins, tensions, and emotions. This release can temporarily exacerbate symptoms before they improve.
Think of a fever breaking. You feel worse right before you feel better. The healing crisis is like that.
Supporting Your Body
What to Do During a Healing Crisis
Rest. Sleep if you can. Do not push through the discomfort.
Hydrate. Drink plenty of water. Water supports the release process.
Eat light. Eat warm, simple foods. Avoid heavy, processed foods.
Be gentle. Do not expect to be productive. Give your body time to heal.
Trust the process. The discomfort will pass. You will feel better afterward.
Key takeaways
The shortest useful version of this page.
Feeling worse after Reiki is called a healing crisis.
It is temporary. It usually lasts 24-48 hours.
Your body is releasing stored tension and emotions.
It is a sign of healing, not a problem.
Rest, hydrate, and be gentle with yourself.
If symptoms are severe or persistent, see a doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I feel worse after Reiki?
You are experiencing a healing crisis. Your body is releasing stored tension and emotions. It is temporary.
How long does the healing crisis last?
Usually 24-48 hours. It is temporary.
What should I do during a healing crisis?
Rest, hydrate, and be gentle with yourself. Do not push through the discomfort.
Is the healing crisis a sign that something went wrong?
No. It is a sign that something shifted. It is a sign of healing.
When should I see a doctor?
If symptoms are severe, last more than a few days, or include concerning signs, see a doctor immediately.
Sources
- Bronwen and Frans Stiene, The Reiki Sourcebook, 2003.
- Practitioner experience and client reports.
- Healing crisis literature in complementary medicine.
