Reiki, simply put, is an ancient method for relaxation and stress relief that promotes healing. The
therapeutic touch of Reiki involves clearing and enhancing energy according to the needs of your body to bring it
back into balance. It is both safe and gentle for all while not requiring disrobing, lotions, oils, medications,
supplements, or manipulation.
Reiki is pronounced "ray-key" which means Rei "spiritual" or "sacred " and ki "energy."
In Japanese these two kanji together are translated in the West to mean "Universal Energy." Ki has the same meaning
as Chi in Chinese, Prana in Sanskrit, and Ti or Ki in Hawaiian. Whatever you choose to call this energy it's the
same vital life force of all living things. The basis of Reiki energy is the understnding that when an individual's
energy is low they are most vulnerable to illness.
This ancient method was rediscovered by Dr. Mikao Usui in the mid-1800s through his search in the Sutras of
Japan and renamed as the Usui Shiki Ryoho method of healing. The technique is basically the same as that used by the
Lamas of ancient Tibet, who are thought to have been the originators of the Reiki system of healing. The Principles
of Reiki, often referred to as the Principals, Percepts, Gokai, or Tenets, were formulated by Dr. Usui with the intention
that all who follow his teachings would adapt these principles to their daily life and in doing so they would create a level
of healing in themselves and others beyond that which one could concieve possible. In following these principles and
removing negative thoughts you will find that you are more open to heal and to being healed.
Reiki was passed on to Dr. Chugiro Hayashi after Dr. Usui's death and later the teachings were introduced in
the United States by Hawayo Takata around 1938. Currently there are well over 100,000 Reiki practitioners within
the United States alone and the original Gokai is still practiced daily around the world.
Many hospitals have incorporated Reiki into their patient care plans before and after procedures and have
reported that while Reiki helps to promote healing with fewer complications they often saw a decrease in the
use of pain medication, a quicker recovery time, and a shorter hospital stay.
Reiki is taught by practitioners who have been attuned, a procedure for preparing them so that they
may be an open channel for the energy by an individual who is a Reiki Master/Teacher (RMT). The ancient
Reiki initiations open the door to grace and a deepening connection with both self and spirit. They offer the gift of
light. It has been said that Reiki is like a very powerful light that fills each person illuminating the darkness within.
The energy of Reiki is so powerful that it inspires awe and yet it is so gentle that it feels like unconditional love.
Reiki helps to replenish your vital energy and strengthen the immune system. At the
same time Reiki helps with both acute and chronic illnesses by reducing and relieving stress.
Note: Reiki is not a form of
massage although it is often learned and combined with massage by trained therapists to enhance their sessions.
