Reiki is based on the eastern idea that illness is caused by a disruption in the body’s energy field or life force (Qi). It involves the client lying on a massage couch fully clothed, whilst the Reiki Practitioner rests their hands lightly on or above the client in a sequence of specific positions. This opens up the body's energy channels and helps to clear any blockages that may be affecting the flow of Qi. Reiki can be used to relieve the symptoms of chronic illnesses such as anxiety, insomnia, back pain and arthritis and is thought to accelerate the body's own natural ability to heal itself on a physical and emotional level.