Emotional Release
Why Crying During Reiki Is Normal
Crying during Reiki is very common. According to Reiki practitioners, it is a sign of emotional release. Stored emotions are surfacing.
It does not mean something is wrong. It means something is shifting. Let the tears flow. Do not suppress them.
After the session, you may feel lighter and more peaceful.
Why You Might Cry
Reasons for emotional release during Reiki.
Stored Emotions
Emotions held in the body (Reiki tradition).
Reiki Relaxation
Relaxation allows emotions to surface.
Emotional Release
Emotions release. Crying, laughing, or other releases.
Healing
The release is healing. You may feel lighter afterward.
If You Cry
What to Do If You Cry During Reiki
First, do not suppress it. Do not apologize. Do not try to stop the tears. According to Reiki practitioners, emotional release is healing. Let it happen.
Second, do not try to figure out 'why.' You may not know why you are crying. That is fine. According to Reiki tradition, the body knows. You do not need to understand it intellectually.
Third, breathe. Deep, slow breaths help the release move through you. Do not hold your breath. Do not tighten your body. Soften. Let go.
Finally, after the release, drink water. Rest. Be gentle with yourself. The release may continue in waves. That is normal.
The Physiology of Tears
Why Crying Is a Healthy Release
Crying is not a sign of weakness. It is not a sign that something is wrong. It is a physiological release mechanism. Tears contain stress hormones. Crying literally removes stress chemicals from your body.
There are three types of tears. Basal tears lubricate your eyes. Reflex tears respond to irritants like smoke. Emotional tears respond to feelings. Emotional tears have a different chemical composition. They contain stress hormones and pain-relieving endorphins.
When you cry during Reiki, according to Reiki practitioners, you are releasing stored emotions. From a scientific perspective, you are releasing stress hormones. Either way, let it flow.
Key takeaways
The shortest useful version of this page.
You might cry during Reiki. It is normal.
Crying is a sign of emotional release.
According to Reiki practitioners, it is a sign of healing.
Do not suppress tears. Let them flow.
You may not know why you are crying. That is fine.
Afterward, you may feel lighter and more peaceful.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to cry during Reiki?
Yes. Crying is very common during Reiki. It is a sign of emotional release.
What if I do not know why I am crying?
That is fine. According to Reiki tradition, the body knows why. You do not need to understand it intellectually.
Should I stop crying during Reiki?
No. Let the tears flow. According to Reiki practitioners, emotional release is healing.
What if I feel overwhelmed?
If you feel overwhelmed, talk to your practitioner. They can help you ground. If the release continues for days, talk to a therapist.
Will I cry every time?
Not necessarily. Some sessions are emotional. Others are quiet. Both are normal.
Sources
- Bronwen and Frans Stiene, The Reiki Sourcebook, 2003.
- Practitioner experience and client reports.
- Studies on emotional tears and stress hormones.
