Reiki

Reiki (pronounced Ray-key) is a Japanese word meaning Universal Life Energy, being derived from its two constituent words: Universal Life (Rei) Energy (Ki).

Reiki is the vital life energy which flows through all living things and which can be activated for the purpose of healing. Reiki practitioners believe that everyone has the ability to connect to their own healing energy and use it for the purposes of strengthening the Ki (or life energy) of others.

Vital Energy

The Reiki therapist channels the Ki through his or her hands to the recipient, activating the body’s natural ability to heal itself. When a person’s Ki is strong and flowing freely, the body and mind are in a positive state of health. However, the vital energy may become weak or blocked, and this may lead to symptoms on a physical or emotional level.

The founder of Reiki, Dr Mikao Usui, spent many years seeking the knowledge of healing and found information on Reiki in Sanskrit texts and from ancient Buddhist teachings. He received information on Reiki through a vision when meditating on a Japanese mountain.

Reiki is taught by Reiki Masters who have trained in the tradition passed down from Master to student. The Reiki practitioner will have received ‘attunements’ to open their healing channels. The guidelines for the practise of Reiki are concerned with ethics and behaviour and include living in harmony with others, taking responsibility for one’s own health and happiness, helping others, and being positive about all things.

Channel

The aim is to heal at any level of being: physical, mental, emotional or spiritual. Acute injuries can be helped to heal very quickly but more chronic illness takes longer. In some cases such as terminal illness, there is not enough time for the progress of the disease to be reversed. However, in such cases there is usually great benefit and enhancement of the quality of life giving a sense of peace and acceptance during the time remaining. Reiki healing can be given anywhere at any time as no special equipment is needed. The practitioner is a channel which the energy is drawn through by the need or imbalance in the recipient. Neither person has to use any effort of will or concentration during this process.