When the Body Speaks: Understanding Stomach Rumbling During Reiki
One of the most common—and often surprising—experiences people have during a Reiki session is stomach rumbling or gurgling. Many clients feel embarrassed when it happens, but in truth, it is a very natural and positive sign. In my practice, I often reassure clients that this response tells us the body is relaxing and beginning to let go.
The Body Entering ‘Rest and Digest’
Reiki encourages the nervous system to shift out of a state of tension or alertness and into what is known as the parasympathetic state—often called ’rest and digest’.
When this happens:
The heart rate slows
Muscles soften
Breathing deepens
Digestion becomes more active
As the digestive system awakens, it is completely normal to hear or feel movement in the stomach or intestines. This is simply the body returning to its natural rhythm.
Energy Moving and Releasing
From an energetic perspective, Reiki helps clear areas of tension or stagnation. As energy begins to flow more freely, physical sensations can arise.
These sensations may include:
Gentle gurgling or rumbling
Warmth or coolness
Tingling or pulsing
Small muscle twitches
Emotional release, such as tears
Each person’s experience is unique, but all of these responses are signs that the body is processing and integrating the work.
A Light-hearted Perspective
Among Reiki practitioners, stomach rumbling is sometimes jokingly referred to as the body ‘applauding’. While said with a smile, there is truth in this—it often reflects the body responding positively to deep relaxation and energetic balance.
Nothing to Feel Self-Conscious About
One of the most important things I remind my clients is this: there is nothing to feel embarrassed about during a Reiki session. Your body is simply doing what it knows how to do—release, restore and return to balance. Reiki is a gentle, supportive process. It does not force change; it allows the body and soul to reconnect with their natural state of harmony.
Creating Space for Healing
In the quiet of a Reiki session, the body is given permission to rest in a way that many people rarely experience in daily life. And when true rest begins, healing often follows in subtle but meaningful ways. Sometimes, that healing begins with something as simple—and as beautiful—as a rumbling stomach.