Part 3- Sound, Crystals, and Reiki: A Dive into Energy Healing

This post is part of my series, “From Stillness to Cacao: My Mexican Wellness Journey,” where I try different wellness practices and share what I learn along the way.

I found myself back at Holistika in Tulum, curious and ready for my next wellness experience. A class titled Sound Healing, Crystals, and Reiki caught my attention. Honestly, it’s not something I’d typically go for. I’ve experienced sound healing before, but the inclusion of crystals and reiki felt a little too “woo woo” for my usual taste. However, one of the intentions behind this blog is to explore practices beyond what I’m familiar with and to approach wellness from a broader perspective. With that in mind, I decided to book the class.

Notes From the Field

The class was held in the most beautiful dome shala that was filled with shimmering tiles and geometric shapes. The group was invited to lie down and to set an intention for the practice. I chose to focus on cultivating a sense of calm and peace. As we settled in, the instructors gently placed crystals on various parts of our bodies such as the hands, heart, and forehead. Initially, I wasn’t sure what role the crystals played, but I later learned they’re commonly used in energy work to help amplify or guide healing. In Reiki, crystals are believed to support the flow of energy and assist in balancing the body’s chakras.

What happened over the next 60 minutes is a little hard to describe, mostly because I was in a deeply relaxed state with my eyes closed. From what I’ve learned, Reiki involves the practitioner using light touch or hovering their hands just above the body to guide energy where it’s needed. During the session, I noticed a pulsating sensation around my head, which I later discovered is a common experience in Reiki. Pulsing, vibrating, or tingling sensations are often interpreted as the release or movement of energy. Throughout the session, a variety of high-vibration sounds filled the space played from bowls, gongs, and other instruments. Personally, I found some of the sounds a little eerie which left me feeling unsettled at times.

When I stepped out of the dome, it felt as though I had emerged from a deep sleep. In the hours that followed, I noticed a lingering drowsiness and a heightened sense of body awareness. These sensations gradually faded after a long, restful sleep. To be honest, I didn’t observe any significant shifts in the days or weeks that followed.

What the Data Says

Research on the effectiveness of sound healing, Reiki, and crystals for mental wellness remains limited. Some studies suggest that sound healing, particularly use of Tibetan singing bowls and gongs may promote relaxation, and reduce anxiety, stress, and anger (Goldsby et al., 2016; Sung et al., 2020). However it is worth noting that these studies have been limited by their small sample sizes, lack of control groups, and reliance on self-report data.

Reiki has received somewhat more research attention. A 2025 meta-analysis by Liu and colleagues found significant improvements in quality of life following Reiki therapy, particularly when interventions included at least eight sessions of 60 minutes or longer. Another meta-analysis reported that short-term Reiki sessions effectively reduced anxiety (Guo et al., 2024). Despite these promising results, the studies are limited by methodological weaknesses and variability in Reiki protocols, such as session duration, practitioner experience, and frequency.

As for crystals, there doesn't appear to be any empirical studies that explore their therapeutic benefits. Their reported benefits are largely anecdotal and rooted in traditional beliefs. Scientific study is challenging because the proposed mechanisms (energy or vibrations) lack clear, measurable definitions in physics or biology.

Personal Reflections

My attendance at the Sound Healing, Crystals, and Reiki class was definitely an interesting experience. Did it change my life or become something I want to regularly include in my routine? Probably not. However, my research has shown that there is significant variability in how sound healing and Reiki are delivered, and that benefits tend to be greater with repeated sessions. So, it’s possible that my single 60-minute session didn’t fully capture the essence of these practices.

That said, the physiological sensations I experienced during Reiki were hard to dismiss, which suggests there may be genuine energy movement or effects happening, even if scientific evidence is limited. As I’ve mentioned before, a lack of scientific proof doesn’t necessarily mean there’s no real effect.

Are you curious about how you can incorporate more wellness practices in your day to day life to support mental wellness? Let's explore it together. Reach out to book your free discovery call today https://www.isabellarosenthalpsychology.com.au/contact

Stay tuned for Part 4 as I explore ancient cacao rituals.

Please note: This blog is intended for general information and reflection, and does not constitute psychological advice or treatment.