Clients usually feel a pleasant sensation of warmth or, if inflammation is present in the area being treated, coolness. Occasionally slight discomfort might be experienced while blockages are cleared, but this lasts only for a short while. During the session, stress is often released and the client becomes so relaxed they frequently doze.

Chronic illness usually responds well to Reiki, often after only one session. Acute conditions may need a series of treatments as the body may need time to accept the change.

As treatments progress energy levels should rise, physical symptoms begin to disappear and thinking patterns become more positive.