Reiki (pronounced ray-key) is an ancient method of healing using the universal life energy force and directing that energy through the laying on of hands.
There are many different variations of the history of Reiki and Mikao Usui and many of the details are disputable. Many web sites have variations of the Takata versions but there is one that rings truer for me. I highly recommend checking out Dave King's site for his well researched version of the history of Reiki.Links to variations of the Reiki stories:
The Reiki Threshold
The International Center for Reiki Training
The Reiki Page(s)
The energy that radiates warmth and energy from our bodies and all living things in the universal life force. This energy has been called many things in many cultures and through out history. Ch'i or Ki is another familiar name for this energy. Every living thing radiates Ch'i, it is our aura or energy field.A person who is trained and attuned to Reiki is one who can channel or tap into this universal life energy. They magnify it and direct it into or through themselves into the person who is receiving Reiki but, it is actually the recipient that is controlling and pulling the energy into themselves. You cannot force Reiki or anyone, they must willingly accept the gift of Reiki. You cannot 'over' energize someone, they will accept only what they need. You cannot inflict harm, Reiki energy will go to where is it needed within the body. Reiki heals not only the physical body, but the emotional and spiritual levels too.
One of the most important points when treating someone with Reiki is the intent you bring to the healing session. I always feel that since the energy 'knows' where and what to heal, and the recipient draws only what they need, the intent should be kept simple. For instance I will always ask that the healing be done for the greater good of the recipient without focusing on specifics and then relying on the guides to know what that greater good is. This appears to free the Reiki energy from any limitations.
Once you have received an attunement it becomes part of your being. You can never lose this magical gift that transforms your life. Some people experience a radiating warmth, or a pulsating flow of energy, each person experiences it in a unique and wonderful way. Often after an attunement your body will go through a transformation. If you have been eating poorly or not getting proper rest prior to the attunement, you may sleep very soundly and your body may go through a detoxification of some kind. After each attunement that I have received I experienced vivid spiritual dreams for several days after the attunement.
Reiki can be performed on all animate and inanimate objects, humans, pets, plants, and even lawn mowers. I have even performed Reiki on my car when it wouldn't start, and yes, it did work.
Reiki is not a religion. This healing method is older than any of today's belief systems. It is as ancient as the mountains and older than time. There are people who have added there own spirituality and their own 'stuff; into their Reiki teachings. But I find most of these additions just extraneous 'stuff' - the simplicity and wonder of Reiki fits into any belief system without all the additional trappings.There are also many variations of precepts or principals of Reiki, but again I believe these were embellishments to make this ancient Eastern healing art more acceptable to westerners. I have included the variation that I was taught along with the translation from Usui's personal writings.
Just for today I will give thanks for my many blessings
Just for today I will not worry
Just for today I will not be angry
Just for today I will do my work honestly
Just for today I will be kind to my neighbor and every living thing![]()
The Secret Method of Inviting Blessings
The Spiritual Medicine of Many IllnessesFor today only, do not anger, do not worry.
Do your work with appreciation.
Be kind to all people.In the morning and at night, with hands held in prayer,
Think this in your mind; chant this with your mouth.The Usui - Reiki method to change your mind and body for the better
The founder, Mikao Usui
Reiki One Bookstore
Traditional Japanese Reiki
The International Center for Reiki Training
The Reiki Reference Page
The Reiki Cafe
The Reiki Pages