Where Reiki comes from
‘Rei’ means universal, ‘ki’ means life force. Dr Mikao Usui began the method in Kyoto, Japan, in 1922. Today it is used as a complementary therapy even inside hospitals around the world.
The five principles
No anger today. No worry today. Be grateful for everything. Work honestly. Be kind to every living thing. Holding these five principles in mind daily is the foundation of Reiki.
How a session works
The client lies on a table fully clothed. The practitioner places their hands on the body or a few inches above it, resting 3–5 minutes over each chakra. Calm, warmth or a gentle tingling may arise during the session — that is normal.
Self-Reiki
Anyone who has taken Level I training can give themselves Reiki daily. Twelve hand positions — head, eyes, ears, throat, chest, abdomen — 3 minutes at each. Keep it up for 20 minutes a day and you will notice a difference in sleep, digestion and stress.
What Reiki is not
Reiki is not a substitute for medical treatment. For cancer, diabetes or mental illness it is only a complementary therapy alongside your doctor. Don't forget to check the practitioner's certification. Expecting a miracle from a single session is a mistake.