Reiki is pronounced “Rei” (Universal Spirit) and Ki (Life force energy). It means universal life-force energy, which can be found in and all around us.
Usui Reiki is a hands-on technique, a restorative practice to help one come back to balance on all levels. 
The founder of this modality is Mikao Usui, a Japanese scholar and teacher who also worked for the Mayor of Tokyo. Among his Japanese students, he trained naval officers including Chujiro Hayashi, a surgeon who later trained Hawayo Takata, a Japanese-American lady. Mrs Takata then trained teachers and practitioners in North America and Europe. They, in turn, have spread this modality worldwide.
Reiki Treatments
Reiki is classified as a form of Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) and offered at public institutions such as hospitals, hospices, homes, schools and churches.
Clinical studies in North America, Europe and Australia have shown that Reiki can effect deep relaxation and alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression. Our bodies have the innate ability to heal itself. When we relax, our bodies can heal more quickly. Reiki is safe and non-intrusive. It supports all forms of medical treatment and does not counter any medication.
During a Reiki Treatment, you can lie on a massage table or be seated comfortably in a chair. You will remain fully clothed. The practitioner will rest their palms lightly on your body in a series of hand positions.
Reiki is simple and profound:
- The effect does not differ between believers and non-believers.
- Reiki supports all medical treatments. While practitioners do not diagnose or prescribe, Reiki can assist your recovery after a medical procedure by offering pain relief and boosting your level of well-being.
- The more Reiki you give and receive, the more restorative it is. You can never have too much Reiki and it does not counter any prescription medication.
Usui Reiki Practitioners and Training
Reiki Practitioners abide by Codes of Ethics and Practice. These are summed up by the Five Principles of Reiki:
Just for today, do not anger,
Just for today, do not worry,
I accept my many blessings,
I live honestly,
I love and respect all life.
Reiki is not knowledge-based but experience-based. Since the ability to share Reiki is passed from teacher to student, you cannot acquire this skill from a book, a DVD or online video. There are a few online programmes reportedly offering Reiki training at extremely low prices. It can be difficult to verify the quality of such courses and get support afterwards. These courses are typically not recognised by Reiki bodies and associations worldwide. It is necessary to learn Reiki in person from an experienced Reiki Master Teacher who is a member of one of these Reiki organisations. When choosing a Reiki teacher, please ask him or her about their lineage, practice and how this meets recognised Reiki training standards.
Are you curious to try a Reiki treatment, or start your Reiki training?