Reiki
What is Reiki?
Reiki was developed as both an enlightenment system and a healing system by Dr Mikao Usui in Japan in the early 1900's, although it is a combination of far more ancient Oriental techniques and traditions. Reiki is based upon the channelling of universal life force energy - known variously as chi, qi, or prana - in order to balance, harmonise and transform the body's energy systems.
This subtle energy permeates and surrounds us, and can be experienced, moved and directed through us and others. Whilst this may seem a strange thing to believe from a Western perspective, it is a central belief in many Asian cultures, and underlies many exercise systems, meditation practices, and healing systems.
I find it strange to consider how many of us never for one moment doubt the existence of the energies that power and connect our mobile phones, the contactless technology of new credit cards and so on, yet become skeptical when asked to consider the subtle energies of our own bodies!
Reiki is not a religion or a doctrine, although Dr Usui did develop a code for right living - see elsewhere on this website. Reiki is used by practitioners of all religions, and compliments any faith. No matter what the individual's beliefs are, Reiki will harmonise their life on many levels.
Reiki, like many other therapies, asserts that the human body has its own in-built natural wisdom, and is self- repairing, given the right conditions. It trusts that the use of universal life energy will be directed by that wisdom in a way which best serves the health and needs of the client.
Medical science has demonstrated both the very real links between the stress response and many illnesses and conditions, and also the real benefits to mind and body of the relaxation response. Reiki promotes deep relaxation and facilitates healing of mind, body and spirit.