Reiki

Reiki
Energy Healing / Spiritual Practice / Esotericism / Complementary Therapy

Definition:

Reiki is a Japanese method of energy healing through hands-on energy transfer, intended to balance the body’s energy, support self-healing, and promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The word Reiki combines Rei (“universal”) and Ki (“life energy”).

Origins and Founder:

• Founded by Mikao Usui (1865–1926), a Japanese spiritual teacher

• According to tradition, Usui received Reiki after a spiritual experience during meditation on Mount Kurama

• Brought to the West by Dr. Chujiro Hayashi and Hawayo Takata

Principles and Practice:

• The Reiki practitioner serves as a channel for universal energy, transmitted through the hands

• Sessions involve light touch or hands hovering above the body, following intuitive or structured hand positions

• Treatments are conducted fully clothed, in a calm, meditative environment

• Reiki is taught in levels or degrees, with attunements (Reiju) given by a Reiki Master

The Five Reiki Precepts (Usui's Principles):

1. Just for today, I will not be angry.

2. Just for today, I will not worry.

3. I will be grateful.

4. I will do my work honestly.

5. I will be kind to all living things.

These affirmations support spiritual and emotional alignment.

Applications:

• Physical: stress reduction, pain relief, immune support

• Emotional: emotional balance, trauma healing, anxiety relief

• Spiritual: inner guidance, personal growth, energy purification

• Also used for animals, plants, and spaces

Styles & Expansions:

• Usui Reiki (original style)

• Karuna Reiki, Kundalini Reiki, Rainbow Reiki – Western adaptations

• Often combined with chakra work, crystals, aromatherapy, or guided meditation

Criticism and Evaluation:

• Not scientifically proven, though widely used in wellness and care contexts

• Effects attributed to placebo, touch-based relaxation, and focused intention

• Many report deep personal and spiritual transformation

• Practiced in hospitals, hospices, and integrative health centers in some countries

Symbols and Rituals:

• Advanced practitioners use Reiki symbols (e.g., Cho Ku Rei, Sei He Ki, Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen)

• Attunements are seen as openings of spiritual energy channels

• Reiki also involves distant healing, aura cleansing, and spiritual protection