The Healing Art of Reiki
Reiki is an alternative healing technique that reduces
stress and promotes healing. The energy is channeled through the giver's hands, and
embodies the idea that life force energy flows through us and is
what causes us to be alive. Simply put, depletion of one's life force energy results in stress
and sickness; its restoration promotes health and wellbeing.
The word comes from two Japanese kanji: KI, life energy, and REI,
the higher spiritual consciousness that guides it. So Reiki is actually
spiritually guided life force energy.
Reiki is a simple technique that anyone can use. It is applicable to every illness
and imbalance, and works in conjunction with other therapies (including allopathic drugs)
to enhance their benefit and speed recovery.
One common misconception is that Reiki is a form of massage. Although
a massage-type table is often used, the resemblance ends there. Reiki
involves the transference of healing energy into the body by a gentle laying
on of hands. This is usually effected at the chakra points but can be
directed to any area where there is discomfort or energy blockage. The
practitioner acts as a channel for this energy.
The ability to use Reiki is not taught in the usual sense, but is
transferred to the student during "attunements" received during Reiki classes. While Reiki is
spiritual in nature, it is not a religion, nor is it dependent on one's beliefs or
background.
Although Reiki is independent from religion, it encourages us to live and act in a way
that promotes harmony with others. Dr. Mikao Usui, the founder of the Reiki system
of natural healing, recommended that one practice certain simple ethical ideals to promote
peace and harmony, which are nearly universal across all cultures. Reiki
practitioners hold these as part of their "mission statement."
Dr. Usui adopted these ideals from the five principles of the Meiji emperor of Japan, whom
he admired. The ideals were developed to add spiritual balance to Usui Reiki. Their purpose is to help people realize that healing the spirit by consciously deciding to
improve oneself is a necessary part of the Reiki healing experience. In order for
the Reiki healing energies to have lasting results, the client must accept
responsibility for her or his healing and take an active part in it. Therefore,
the Usui system of Reiki is more than the use of the Reiki energy. It must also
include an active commitment to improve oneself in order for it to be a complete system.
The ideals are both guidelines for living a gracious life, and virtues worthy of
practice for their inherent value.
Dr. Mikao Usui
Reiki healing sessions can be done with the client
sitting, standing or lying on a comfortable, padded table.
Reiki is good for animals, too!
Dr. Usui's ideals (translated from the
Japanese):
The secret art of inviting happiness
The miraculous medicine of all diseases
Just for today, do not anger
Do not worry and be filled with gratitude
Devote yourself to your work. Be kind to people.
Every morning and evening, join your hands in prayer.
Pray these words to your heart
and chant these words with your mouth
Usui Reiki Treatment for the improvement of body and mind
The founder, Usui Mikao
In addition to its potential in a ritual setting, I also give private Reiki sessions at my home in Willimantic, CT. I have been practicing Reiki for four years and I can attest to its life-changing effects! Click on contact below if you would like more information.
