Regarding the question: How can energy come to you before it is sent out?
I have experienced this on several occassions. I think it is connected to the intension of the healer. The energy is sent with the original intention to do something. So, in essence, it "is" sent out. I have done some healing work that has involved traditional ritual in the process. Perhaps prayers were done, maybe some burning of sage, etc., all to focus on the healing work at hand, and create a sacred space to do it in. By the time you get to doing the actual energy work on the patient, it is already done. The complete process of going through the actual healing,is very fulfilling, even if you are aware of an energy exchange, perhaps being done before you finish your movements or work.