Last Updated on April 27, 2026 by Brenda

Listen to this informative podcast here:

Sometimes, the root cause of chronic pain or persistent anxiety isn’t a medical mystery—it’s trapped emotion. This is the core principle of Reiki, the powerful energy healing practice discussed with practitioner Tanya Rivera. Reiki is often called “energy healing.” It’s non-invasive, safe, and works alongside your doctor’s care to help your body manage stress, pain, and illness.

According to holistic practices, when we experience trauma, high stress, or simply ignore difficult emotions, they can become physically “stuck” in the body. This is referred to as an energy block. These blocks can manifest as:

• Unexplained aches and pains.
• Chronic stress and inability to relax.
• A feeling of heaviness or persistent sadness.

Reiki works on the philosophy that universal life energy knows exactly where to go. A certified practitioner places their hands lightly on or just above the body. This simple, non-invasive process facilitates the movement of blocked energy.

Sessions focused on emotional release, clients often experience spontaneous crying—a physical sign that the trapped emotion is finally being released. Afterward, clients report feeling lighter, calmer, and better able to manage their stress. This shift is key to achieving whole-body wellness, as clearing the emotional root often alleviates the physical symptoms.

Reiki is not a replacement for traditional medicine, but a powerful complement. By addressing the energetic root of symptoms, it allows the body to find a new state of balance, supporting its natural ability to heal. If you’re seeking to break free from the invisible burden of trapped emotions, Reiki offers a gentle, effective way to start.

What to Expect During a Session

A typical 45- to 60-minute session is deeply relaxing.

Set Your Intention: Before starting, you discuss with the practitioner what you want to work on (e.g., knee pain, stress, grief). Setting a clear intention—”I am going to heal from this”—is a crucial part of the self-care participation.

The Touch: You lie face-up on a table while the practitioner starts at your head and moves along your body. You choose whether you prefer a light touch or no touch (hands hovering slightly above the body).

The Healing: The universal life energy flows through the practitioner, going to the parts of your body that need it most. You may feel warmth or simply drift into a deep state of relaxation—some clients even fall asleep!

Maximizing Your Wellness: The Aftercare

The work isn’t done when you stand up! Because Reiki can release physical and emotional toxins from the body, aftercare is important for maximizing the ripple effect of the session:

Hydrate: You must drink plenty of water after a session. This helps flush the newly released energy (and any physical toxins) from your system.

Duration: The effects of the session—which may feel similar to a detox—can last anywhere from three days to three weeks.

Whether you’re seeking relief from physical pain or a tool to help you unwind, Reiki offers a gentle, structured way to support your whole-body wellness from the inside out.

Option 1: Focus on the “Energy Block” Mystery and Emotional Release

Episode Description 1: Unlocking Trapped Emotions

Have you ever felt that your emotions were stuck, manifesting as physical pain or persistent stress? You might have an energy block. Host Brenda Bishop is joined by Tonja Rivera of Sagebrush Healing and Wellness to go beyond the symptoms and explore the ancient practice of Reiki. Tonja explains how this non-invasive, light-touch technique uses universal life energy to clear the emotional roadblocks that hinder your health. Learn how Reiki supports whole-body wellness by releasing trapped emotions, providing deep relaxation, and complementing your existing medical care. Plus, find out how life coaching can help you maintain your newly cleared path.