So what is Reiki?
A brief History
Reiki, a form of energy healing, originated in Japan in the early 20th century. It was developed by Mikao Usui, who sought a method for healing and spiritual awakening. He travelled extensivelly and studied many cultures and martial arts. Following a transformative experience on Mount Kurama in 1922, Usui developed the ability to channel universal life energy, which he called "Reiki." He founded a healing society and began teaching his system, emphasizing physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Reiki translates as universal life force energy.
After Usui's death in 1926, Reiki was further developed by Chujiro Hayashi, one of Usui's students. Hayashi introduced standardized hand positions and formalised Reiki as a practice. One of Hayashi's students, Hawayo Takata, brought Reiki to the West in the 1930s, where it gained popularity and evolved into various forms.
Today, Reiki is practiced worldwide, valued for its holistic approach to healing and personal growth, blending tradition with modern adaptations.
What happens during a reiki session?
During a Reiki session, the practitioner channels healing energy through their hands to the recipient. The session usually begins with a brief discussion about the recipient’s needs. The recipient lies fully clothed on a massage table or sits in a comfortable chair.
The practitioner places their hands lightly on or just above the recipient’s body, moving through specific positions corresponding to energy centers or areas of concern. Recipients often experience deep relaxation, warmth, or gentle tingling. This will vary from session to session. The session typically lasts 45–60 minutes, promoting balance and well-being on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.
Who can benefit from Reiki?
Reiki can benefit anyone, regardless of age, health condition, or background. It is a gentle, non-invasive practice that supports overall well-being. People seek Reiki for various reasons, including:
Stress reduction and relaxation
Physical healing
Emotional balance
Spiritual Growth
Management of chronic conditions.
Since Reiki is holistic, it is adaptable to individual needs, making it a versatile practice for anyone seeking improved physical, emotional, or spiritual harmony.
I have worked with adults and children.
Please check that your reiki practitioner is properly qualified and insured.
What Reiki isn’t!
Reiki is not a religion. People of all faiths and non can benefit from the healing properties of Reiki. People of all faiths and non can become reiki practitioners.
Reiki is not a quick fix or cure. Reiki works in conjunction with other approaches. Reiki can help to bring clarity leading to better decision making and improved choices. Just as one salad will not result in our ideal body weight or shape, one reiki session will not solve complex issues. Repeated sessions are recommended alongside taking action on what becomes clear.
I hope this has been informative. I’d love to hear if you have any questions.
Reiki blessings
Caroline
What is Reiki?