“Reiki” (ray-key) is Japanese for ‘universal life energy’, a term used to describe many systems of natural healing. This healing tradition was founded by Dr Mikao Usui in the early 20th century and evolved as a result of his research, experience and dedication.
We live in a world of energy that nourishes and maintains all living things. When this energy flows uninterrupted there is balance and harmony within and around us and we experience a sense of well being.
There are many variations of Reiki, but in essence it is a healing process that works at bringing us into balance and reinforces the body’s natural ability to heal itself at all levels, whether physical, mental, emotional or spiritual. It is a tradition that is open to any belief system.
Reiki is a healing process that anyone can benefit from in the normal course of their life and may also bring help and comfort to people suffering from a range of conditions. It should not, however, be regarded as a cure for such conditions. As a natural form of healing Reiki can support and enhance other forms of treatment.
The method of receiving a Reiki treatment from a therapist is simple. The recipient remains clothed and lies on a couch or sits on a chair and relaxes. The therapist gently places their hands non-intrusively, on or near the body. There is no massage or manipulation and the whole person is treated rather than specific symptoms. It is also possible to receive reiki at a distance.
Reiki therapists are not trained in diagnosis and will not offer any diagnosis or prognosis. If people are concerned about their symptoms they should see a doctor. They may or may not feel sensations during a treatment and most people feel relaxed and at peace afterwards. However, a treatment could stir up emotions or lead to a healing reaction, such as headaches or flu like symptoms.
Reiki is taught by Reiki Masters, who have trained in the tradition passed on in person from Master to student. Students go through a process of initiation/attunement to the Reiki energy. They are then able to treat themselves and others, not only from a healing perspective, but also as an aid to personal development and spiritual growth.
provided by the Reiki Regulatory Working Group
Reiki Links:
UK Reiki Regulatory Working Group – set up by representatives of a number of Reiki organisations in collaboration with the Prince of Wales’s Foundation for Integrated Health to explore and establish public and professional standards to regulate the practice of Reiki in the UK.
The UK Reiki Federation – one of the largest independent Reiki organisations.
The Reiki Association – an association of people initiated into Reiki and part of the world-wide Reiki community.
Reiki.com – a website developed to serve the Reiki community internationally.
Reiki.Org – information and articles on Reiki.