Possible Physical Responses to Energetic Wellness Practices

Energy based wellness practices, including Reiki and sound healing, help restore balance to the body’s chakra system by rejuvenating the natural flow of energy within the human biofield. These practices are thought to enhance the natural energy flow positively. By releasing energetic blockages that hinder the energy circulation both within and around individuals, they promote the relaxation response and foster healing. Such blockages often stem from unprocessed emotions stored in the body’s physical tissues, occurring when an individual is unable or unwilling to fully engage with their emotions.

As blockages are cleared from the body’s energetic system, individuals may often encounter temporary physical, mental, or emotional symptoms. These manifestations can signify that recent shifts in life force energy have enabled emotions that were once held in the body to surface, facilitating their release and aiding the healing process. Common signs of emotional release may appear as fleeting symptoms in the musculoskeletal system, changes in behavior, emotional outbursts, and various other physical indicators.

The muscular system can manifest a variety of symptoms. Throughout my experiences in Energy based wellness—both as a client and a practitioner—I have noted these sensations, whether in myself or others. Although they may seem unsettling, these symptoms typically last only a few moments as the nervous system undergoes recalibration. Fine tremors in the extremities or sensations of trembling or shaking (comparable to the chills that accompany a fever) may indicate the release of physical and emotional tension from the body. Additionally, random muscle twitching or jerking sensations can occur, as well as transient muscle pains that feel like knots forming, tightening, and then releasing. While many of these symptoms are often associated with the activation of the sympathetic nervous system's “fight or flight response,” they can also arise when the parasympathetic nervous system is actively disengaging the stress response and guiding the body back to a state of relaxation after recognizing that a threat has passed.  

Outbursts of emotion are a prevalent indicator of emotional release. These expressions can vary widely, from a solitary tear to intense sobbing and even spontaneous laughter. Although it may seem obvious, crying is one of the most recognized ways for the body to express emotions. Emotional tears serve as a mechanism for eliminating the accumulation of stress hormones that influence cortisol production. Moreover, they can trigger the release of oxytocin and endorphins, which enhance feelings of well-being and alleviate pain. These elements may contribute to the way tears appear to help restore emotional balance.   

Behavioral changes that may arise include heightened sensitivity to various stimuli, alterations in appetite, and fluctuations in sleep patterns. The experience of fatigue and an increased need for sleep is a common aspect of the healing journey when dealing with a physical condition, and it can also play a significant role in emotional recovery. The relaxation response naturally leads individuals into what is known as the “rest and digest” state. When a previously blocked emotion, once perceived as a threat by the body, is released, it can ideally facilitate a seamless transition into this state of restorative rest, as it becomes safe for the individual to unwind. Furthermore, deep REM sleep contributes to emotional regulation by aiding mental processing and reorganizing information. There may also be an increase in sensitivity to visual, auditory, or tactile stimuli. Additionally, the suppression of emotions—whether consciously or unconsciously—can dull a person's overall capacity to feel. As these emotional blocks are released, a rebound effect may occur, resulting in heightened sensations with increased intensity.

Now that you are aware of the range of physical symptoms that can occur during and after an energy healing session let's talk about a few things that you can do to facilitate your healing process and prevent yourself from becoming overwhelmed. 

*Create space for your healing

Prepare for your session by crafting a supportive atmosphere where you can dwell for the rest of the day. This day is dedicated to self-care and healing for you, so take the time to plan accordingly. You can tackle stressful tasks on another occasion. On the day of your session, envelop yourself in comfort. Aim to reduce intense external distractions. Consider taking a nap, enjoying the outdoors, exploring your emotions, and journaling.

*Support Your Body’s Natural Detoxification 

Staying hydrated is crucial after any bodywork session. This advice, often shared during massages, holds true here as well. Your kidneys, liver, skin, and gastrointestinal system collaborate to detoxify your body naturally. Enhance this process by increasing your fluid intake and opting for whole, natural foods rich in fiber.  

Enjoying a warm bath infused with Epsom salts and select essential oils or herbs can offer numerous benefits. Dr. Vellinga, MD, from the Temecula Center for Integrative Medicine in Temecula, CA, provides valuable insights into the advantages of Epsom salt baths in his article, “Easy Detox & Stress Relief: The Simple Power of Epsom Salt Baths”

*Allow yourself to feel the feels

Sometimes, emotions can be painful and difficult to manage. As humans, we are literally designed to avoid things that cause us pain.  Many of us weren’t taught what to do when we experienced powerful emotions.  Instead of holding onto them or hiding from them, try a different approach.  Feel them and then allow them to pass through you and let them go.  Clinical psychologist Beth Kurland, PhD describes several excellent methods for managing emotions in her article, “Three Ways to Navigate Difficult Emotions.” 

With gratitude,

Jamie Shanks BSN, RN-BC