We all know someone who seems to carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. Maybe they’re always giving to others but rarely pause to refill their own cup. Or maybe you know they’re going through a rough patch but aren’t the type to ask for help or even admit they need it. Perhaps they don't want anyone to worry about them.
When someone we care about could benefit from healing but isn’t likely to seek it out themselves, gifting them a Reiki session or membership can be a powerful way to say, “I see you, and I want you to feel supported.” Here’s how to approach this thoughtful gift in a way that feels natural and supportive, even if they’re skeptical or hesitant.
Non-judgment, Care, Practical Support
For many people, a healing session such as massage, reiki, or acupuncture can seem self-indulgent. They are sometimes perceived as luxury experiences rather than practical care. Framing a Reiki session as an opportunity to give some time and space to yourself in the presence of someone who cares can help people begin to see that it's not fluff and they won't be forced into any magical thinking.
I bring a grounded approach to Reiki, knowing there is no need to infuse it with any kind of magical aura. I meet the patient, we discuss what's going on and what their goals are, and we engage a variety of practices to support their personal process. It doesn’t require belief or prior experience—it simply invites relaxation, stress relief, and a deeper connection to the body’s innate ability to restore balance.
For someone who may feel burned out, overwhelmed, or stuck, Reiki offers a safe space to just be. Often, the symbolism of this act can be surprisingly powerful, especially when it is out of the ordinary for the individual. We also simply have ample research that shows that receiving attention and compassion can be transformative for our nervous systems, minds, and bodies.
Try framing a session as a practical tool to help alleviate challenges and burnout caused by chronic stress, illness, pain, loneliness, and so on. Avoid making any promises or guarantees, because Reiki unfolds very differently for everyone and is a dynamic process. Frame it as something to simply try, and reassure them that it is never a waste to fill your cup, and that it ultimately helps everyone around them.
By gifting a session, you’re giving them permission to pause, recharge, and receive care—something many people find difficult to allow for themselves.
Addressing Skepticism or Hesitation Toward Reiki
If your loved one is on the skeptical side or feels that self-care services are indulgent, Somatique is an ideal place to explore, due to my grounded and evidence-based approach to sessions, and refusal to make any claims that we simply aren't in any position to make. Here are some ways to frame Reiki in a way that feels approachable and grounded:
Emphasize relaxation and human connection: Emphasize that Reiki is about creating a space for relaxation and stress relief, much like a massage or meditation. You could say:“I know how much you’ve been juggling lately, and I thought you might appreciate some time to just relax and unwind.”
Explain the Anthropological backdrop: Highlight that for thousands of years and across cultures, humans have engaged in symbolic healing rituals. Explain that we've been able to trace a pattern across time and place - people do not heal alone, and social support is foundational to our well-being.
Explain the multi-modal approach: You can share with them that Somatique intentionally integrates evidence-based practices of meditation, breathwork, and somatic practices, ensuring that the client not only receives direct support of their mind-body system, but also comes away with tools and practices to implement on their own.
Offer it Without Strings: Let them know they can try it without any pressure to commit. You could say:“There’s no obligation—just a chance to relax and see how it feels.”
Frame it as a Gift of Care: Reassure them that this isn’t about fixing anything but simply giving them a moment to feel cared for.“You give so much to others—I wanted to give you something that’s just for you.”
How to Explain Reiki Without Overloading
Sometimes simplicity is best. If they’re curious but unsure, you could say:“It’s like a guided rest session where you can relax while someone helps to regulate your nervous system. You won't be asked to believe in anything and the session is personally tailored to you."
Or, if they’re open to more details:“It’s a Japanese practice that focuses on relaxation and stress relief by working with the body’s energy. Your practitioner will walk you through some simple exercises, and then you just lie down and relax - on a heated massage table *wink wink*."
Choosing the Right Gift
You can tailor your gift to what you feel they’d most benefit from:
One Session: Perfect for an introduction to Reiki and allows them to experience it without feeling committed.
Membership or Multi-Session Package: Ideal for someone you know could use consistent support but might not prioritize it for themselves - only AFTER they have had a chance to try a single session and decide for themself how they feel about it.
How to Present the Gift of Reiki
Make it feel thoughtful and intentional. You could include a note like:"I’ve noticed how much you’ve been taking on lately, and I wanted to give you a little space to relax and recharge. This session is for you—no expectations, just a moment to pause and breathe."
Reiki at Somatique, Boulder CO, as a Door to Self-Care
For many people, the hardest part of self-care is allowing themselves to receive it. By gifting a Reiki session, you’re not just offering relaxation—you’re helping them take the first step toward prioritizing their own well-being. Just IMAGINE if everyone on earth did this!
Sometimes, all it takes is a little nudge from someone who cares.
Ready to give the gift of healing? Reiki is available right here in Boulder, CO. Let’s help this person you love begin their journey toward balance, relaxation, and renewal.