Reiki vs. Qigong — What's the Difference?

Reiki, a Japanese technique, emphasizes healing by laying hands to channel universal life energy into the body, aiming to enhance spiritual and emotional well-being. On the other hand, Qigong, rooted in Chinese tradition, involves specific physical postures and exercises to cultivate body energy, or Qi, focusing more on physical health and vitality.

Reiki practitioners often use their technique as a complementary therapy, providing gentle touch that can help alleviate stress and promote deep relaxation. Whereas Qigong is practiced both as a form of physical exercise and a meditative technique, helping improve fitness and reducing stress through dynamic movements and still meditations.

In Reiki, the flow of energy is directed by the healer, who places hands over specific body parts, channeling healing from a higher source. In contrast, Qigong practitioners direct their own body's energy through concentration, breath work, and fluid movements, aiming to improve their own energy systems.

Reiki sessions typically occur in a quiet, private setting to enhance the recipient’s meditative state and facilitate emotional healing. Conversely, Qigong can be practiced alone or in groups, often outdoors, making it a more versatile and socially engaging activity.

While Reiki is mainly passive, involving receiving energy from a practitioner, Qigong is an active practice requiring personal effort and discipline to master the techniques that maintain and enhance one’s health.