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Reiki is a form of touch therapy used for relaxation and healing.
Reiki is a Japanese word that translates to universal life energy.
It is composed of two words:
- Rei: Transcendental Spirit, Universal Power or essence
- Ki: Life force energy that flows through all living things. (Chi in Chinese)
Reiki is a complimentary therapy, meaning it works well with other forms of healing,
such as Western medicine. Reiki is not associated with or in conflict with any
faith or belief system. What separates Reiki from other forms of therapeutic touch
or healing touch is the attunement or initiation process. Attunements must be
passed on through a Reiki Master. In the attunements energy is transmitted to the
student and the energy centers in the student are opened to allow energy to flow
through them and out their hands.
History of Reiki
There are actually entire books written about the history of Reiki. Very briefly,
Dr. Usui, a Christian Dean at a seminary in Kyoto, rediscovered the ancient healing
method of Reiki in by studying Sanskrit formulas and symbols in Buddhist sutras
in the mid 19th century. He spent the rest of his life teaching and healing and
passed the healing method on to others. He also developed the 5 Reiki Principles.
How Reiki is Done
The Reiki practitioner places his or her hands just above or on the recipient's
body in a series of positions or over the affected area. For a full treatment,
the person receiving Reiki lays down on a massage table or on the floor. The person
remains fully dressed. Energy can pass through clothes, shoes, and even a cast.
Through the attunements, training, and practice, the practitioner develops a
heightened sensitivity to where energy is needed, and for how long the hands
should stay in that position. The practitioner is taught a series of hand positions
for the front and back of the body and the head in the Reiki I class. A full
body treatment generally lasts about 45 minutes.
What Happens
Reiki works on many levels - including body, mind, and spirit. Reiki sends energy
into the body, accelerating the healing process. It promotes a profound sense of
relaxation. It gives the recipient a sense of being grounded and centered.
Reiki opens the mind to the sources and causes of pain and disease, and allows
the recipient to take responsibility for their life. It allows him or her to
make choices rather than to simply react to circumstances.
Our bodies have the innate ability to heal themselves on all levels. Reiki
provides the opportunity to return to balance and harmony.
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