Imposing hands is a spiritual practice that involves the laying of hands on a person for therapeutic or religious purposes. Some synonyms for imposition of hands include laying on of hands, hands-on healing, therapeutic touch, and healing touch. This practice is used by various traditions: it is a common practice in Christianity, and it is also used in Reiki and other forms of energy healing. The core belief behind this practice is that the laying on of hands can transfer healing energy from the healer to the individual in need. Imposition of hands is an effective form of stress relief, and it can provide comfort and promote spiritual insight.