Reiki (pronounced ra kee) by definition is “a healing technique based on the principle that the practitioner can channel energy into the patient by means of touch, to activate the natural healing processes of the client’s body and restore physical and emotional well-being.” Reiki is of Japanese origin and means “universal (rei) life energy (ki)”.
In short terms, it is the practice of a practitioner placing their hands lightly on or over specific areas of the head, torso, and limbs for approximately two to five minutes with each area. The practitioner uses gentle light touches or no touch which can sometimes feel cool or warm and possibly tingly in that area. The treatment in total can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour as the hands can be placed over 20 different areas of the body. This produces natural healing vibrations or frequencies with results that can last several days or even weeks.
Having been around for thousands of years, Reiki is said to help the relaxation process and assist the body in healing naturally. It is alleged that Reiki can help develop emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. This in turn can aid in our coping ability to relieve stress, anxiety, and difficulties that prevent us from feeling complete and content. Long distance Reiki can provide mental healing as well.
The Reiki method was founded by Mikao Usui. Usui Sensei, born in Japan in 1865, desired for a way to heal that was not attached to any specific religion or religious belief. This would ensure that anyone and everyone can practice this method of healing. It was during a 21 day meditation on Mount Kurama that Dr. Usui experienced a new type of energy. After fasting, praying, and meditating, it was on the last day that what was experienced changed Dr. Usui’s life. It was this experience that led to Usui Reiki. Dr. Usui then established a clinic for healing and teaching in Kyoto.
Dr. Usui believed in five Reiki principles. He believed that if you live your life according to those five principles, then you will have lived a fulfilled life. The five Reiki principles are:
•Just for today, do not be angry
•Just for today, do not worry
•Just for today, be grateful
•Just for today, work hard
•Just for today, be kind to others
These are recited daily in this manner: Every morning and every evening, join your hands in prayer. Pray these words to your heart and chant these words with your mouth.