Laying on of Hands

Presentation

Laying on of hands is one of the oldest and most universal forms of healing. Present in virtually all civilizations and spiritual traditions — from Egyptian temples to shamanic practices, through biblical and Buddhist traditions — it represents the very archetype of energy healing. Laying on of hands differs from magnetic passes by the static nature of the gesture: hands are placed (contact) or held motionless near the body (non-contact) for extended periods.

This technique is found in many modern therapeutic systems: Reiki, Therapeutic Touch, Healing Touch, Johrei, Pranic Healing, and healing magnetism. Each system provides its own understanding of the mechanism of action, but all share the fundamental principle of energy transmission through hands.

Core Principles

Two application modes exist:

• With contact: Hands are placed directly on the patient's body, touch is light, without pressure. Physical contact facilitates thermal transmission and tactile perception
• Without contact: Hands are held 2 to 10 cm from the body, working in the auric field. This mode is preferred for sensitive areas or patients reluctant to be touched

Technical Details

Duration per position

3 to 10 minutes

Distance (non-contact)

2 to 10 cm from body

Pressure (contact)

Very light, weight of hands only

Main zones

Head, shoulders, solar plexus, abdomen, back, feet

Total duration

20 to 60 minutes

Main Indications

• Acute and chronic pain
• Severe stress and anxiety
• Palliative care and end-of-life support
• Burns (recognized application in hospital departments)
• Sleep disorders
• Post-operative convalescence
• Pregnancy support
• Emotional support in crisis situations

Session Overview

The practitioner centers their intention and prepares their hands (rubbing to activate palmar chakras). The patient is settled comfortably, clothed. The practitioner places hands on identified areas, typically starting at the head. Hands remain motionless for several minutes. The practitioner focuses on energy transmission, often guided by sensations (warmth, tingling, pulsation) indicating energy flow. When the area is 'saturated' (sensations diminish), hands move to the next position. The session ends with placement on the feet to ground the energy.

Contraindications

• Never apply pressure on painful, inflamed or injured areas
• Caution on areas with metallic implants
• Respect patient consent for touch
• Do not practice on open wounds (non-contact mode possible)
• Practitioner must wash hands before and after each session