The name Reiki originates from Japanese REI, meaning spirit and KI, meaning energy, or life force). Reiki therapy utilizes spiritual, or universal, energy to assist the healing process. Healing can occur on a physical, emotional or spiritual level.
Reiki as a modern healing method
was initiated at the beginning of the 20th century by Dr. Mikao Usui (1865 –
1926), a Japanese Buddhist monk, but it is possible to trace the origins of
Reiki back to Buddhist healing
practices.
Reiki treatments can be performed in person or at a distance. During “hands-on” treatment the Reiki practitioner places their hands in specific positions on or above the patient's body, and allows Reiki, or the universal energy, to assist in the patient’s healing.
During distant
treatment the practitioner focuses on the patient, using
the Reiki symbols and the
patient’s name, and allows Reiki
to assist in healing. It is believed that the distance between the
Reiki practitioner and the
patient does not affect the effect of treatment.
During Reiki treatment, the
patients usually experience relaxation and peace and may feel a warmth and other
subtle and pleasant sensations. The treatment usually lasts about an hour.
The practitioner does not use their energy, but rather, transmits the universal
energy of love and compassion. During the treatment the practitioner does
not diagnose the patient, and does not perform any manipulations (i.e. addition
or removal of energy) on the patient’s energy field. The purpose of the
practitioner during the treatment is to be a pure conduit of healing energy. It
is believed that during the treatment the patient’s body (energy body) “draws”
the necessary healing energy and distributes it according to its own needs.
Reiki therapy is safe and
non-invasive. It has been used a number of medical settings -- hospices,
nursing homes, emergency rooms, operating rooms, organ transplantation care
units, pediatric, neonatal and OB/GYN units. Reiki facilitates relaxation
and often decreases anxiety and pain.
"The purpose of our lives is to give birth to the best that is within us."
(Marianne Williamson, A Return to Love)