Reiki Healing
Reiki is a form of energy healing that originated in Japan in the early 20th century. The word "Reiki" comes from two Japanese words: "Rei," which means "universal" or "spiritual," and "Ki," which means "life energy" or "vital energy." Reiki is based on the concept that there is a universal life force energy that flows through all living beings and that this energy can be harnessed and directed for healing purposes.
Reiki was developed by Mikao Usui in Japan in the early 1900s. Usui was a Buddhist monk who, after years of study and meditation, experienced a profound spiritual awakening that led to the development of the Reiki healing system. He dedicated his life to teaching others about Reiki and healing practices. After Usui's death his students continued to spread Reiki and it eventually reached the Western world in the mid-20th century.
Mikao Usui's teachings have had a profound impact on millions of people worldwide. His simple yet profound system of natural healing has evolved into various lineages, but all modern forms of Reiki trace their origins back to Usui's original practice. Today, Reiki is recognized as a complementary healing method in wellness centers, hospitals, and private practices around the world. Reiki remains a powerful tool for personal and spiritual growth, healing, and deep relaxation, continuing to help people live balanced and harmonious lives, in alignment with universal life energy.
Reiki is administered by a trained practitioner who channels this universal energy through their hands to the recipient. The recipient lies down fully clothed or while sitting down, often in a peaceful environment, while the practitioner places their hands lightly on or just above specific parts of the body. The practitioner's role is to serve as a conduit for the Reiki energy, directing it where the recipient needs it most.
Key Principles and Philosophy of Reiki
Universal life force
Reiki is founded on the belief that there is a universal life force energy that exists everywhere in the universe. This energy is believed to be the source of all life, and its flow can be affected by our thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Energy Healing
Reiki practitioners believe that energy can become blocked in the body due to stress, trauma, or negative emotions, which can lead to physical, mental or emotional imbalances. Reiki aims to clear these blockages and restore the natural flow of energy, promoting overall health and well-being.
Non-invasive practice
Reiki is a non-invasive practice where the practitioner places their hands lightly on or just above the recipient’s body. The practitioner then channels the universal life force energy into the recipient, to balance and harmonize their energy system.
Holistic Approach
Reiki is considered a holistic practice, it addresses the whole person—mind, body, spirit, and emotions. It is used not just for physical healing but also for emotional, mental, and spiritual well being.
The Reiki Practice
Attunement process
To become a Reiki practitioner, one must receive an attunement from a Reiki Master. This attunement process is a spiritual ceremony where the master opens the student's energy channels, allowing them to connect more deeply with the universal life energy.
Hand Positions and Techniques
During a Reiki session, the practitioner uses specific hand positions that correspond to different energy centers (or chakras) on the body. The hands can be placed directly on the body or held just above it. The practitioner does not need to apply pressure or manipulate the body physically; instead, they focus on channeling the energy.
Distance Healing
Reiki can also be practiced at a distance. Practitioners believe that because energy is not confined by time or space, they can send Reiki energy to someone who is not physically present. This practice is known as “distance healing” or “remote healing.”