Energy Healing vs Reiki: What’s the Difference?
"Energy healing" is an umbrella term for many practices that work with the body’s energy and nervous system. Reiki is one specific Japanese system within that umbrella, with its own hand positions and lineage. The traditional Balinese approach is another lineage. They share the same intention — a calm space for the body to rebalance — but differ in method and roots. All are complementary, non-medical practices.
An Umbrella and a Branch
Think of "energy healing" as the umbrella and Reiki as one branch beneath it. Reiki is a Japanese method founded by Mikao Usui, with structured hand positions and attunements passed through a lineage.
What They Share
Both invite the nervous system to relax and the body to rebalance. In both, you usually rest, clothed, while a practitioner holds a calm, intentional space. The felt experience — warmth, calm, release — is often similar.
Where They Differ
They differ in tradition, technique, and framing. Reiki has its own symbols and structure; the traditional Balinese approach comes from a different cultural and spiritual lineage, with its own way of working with life energy and presence.
“The label matters less than the presence of the person holding the space.”
The Balinese Approach
Mathieu Sun works within the traditional Balinese energy lineage — rooted in ceremony, respect and deep presence. Whether you have tried Reiki or never experienced energy work, sessions are offered in Antibes or online.
Book an energy session with Mathieu Sun →