What is Reiki?

Re-posted from Michelle's Weebly blog

(pronounced Ray-Key) Perhaps the gentlest form of complimentary/Eastern medicine, Reiki is, in general terms, a Japanese technique for stress reduction, relaxation, and healing. It is administered by "laying on hands" or by working just above a person's body, in their energy field. (In some ways, it is similar to other forms of gentle energy healing, like Therapeutic Touch.) This is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and causes us to be alive (similar to the Chinese concept of "Chi"). When there is a block in this energy, especially over several areas of the body or multiple chakras (energy centers), we can develop health or emotional problems over time. Some of the principles behind this form of healing are similar to those of Accupressure, Accupuncture, and Reflexology. Many of the hand positions for Reiki correlate with the energy centers which are stimulated by these other forms of healing. The actual translation of the word Reiki is as follows: Rei means "Universal" or "Higher Power," and Ki means "Life Force Energy." So, the combination of terms means "Universal Life Force Energy." This spiritual and physical healing technique, which is believed to be ancient in origin, was rediscovered and perfected by Dr. Mikao Usui (Hence the name "Usui Reiki") in the 1800's, and eventually made its way to America. This form of healing is taught only by Usui Reiki Master-Teachers with a lineage going all the way back to Dr. Usui of Japan himself. The traditional process of becoming a Reiki Practitioner is usually long and involves attunements by the teacher and much learning and being tested prior to each attunement, usually in three stages--Reiki I, Reiki II, and Reiki Master or Master-Teacher. This incredibly gentle form of energy healing is relaxing and calming, treating the whole person, including body, emotions, mind, and spirit. It brings about feelings of peace, security, and well being. Often, a client will fall asleep to wake at the end of the treatment refreshed and energized. Some people also feel a warming sensation before drifting off to sleep. Anyone can benefit from Reiki, as it balances energy, promotes relaxation, and even helps to manage pain caused by a wide variety of ailments! It is gentle enough to be safe for everyone, even those with severe special needs and skin sensitivities. This form of energy healing, like many others currently available to the public, is regularly being offered in many hospitals before and after surgery and as complimentary medicine for other procedures, such as cancer treatments and hospice care. It is one of the gentlest forms of alternative healing and can be used to help heal everything, including, but not limited to people, animals, plants, the Earth, etc.