Reiki is a Japanese word meaning:
REI: Universally or Spiritually guided, wisdom and knowledge of the universe
KI: Life Force energy (which flows through every living thing and is present in some form in everything around)
Reiki is a healing system developed in Japan by Mikao Usui in the early part of the 20th century. Reiki is used to treat physical, emotional and spiritual conditions. It is based on the idea that all living things produce an energy field and that illness, injury and emotional disturbances can be treated by influencing that field.
How does it work?
The body is more than just a collection of functioning parts. Since everything generates a frequency, the body and its organs have their own energy field which is continually changing. All conditions that affect the body are rooted in this energy system. Reiki heals by influencing negatively affected parts of the energy field with positive energy. Energy fields in the body each have different vibratory levels and Reiki practitioners use their hands in an attempt to rebalance these vibrations in the negatively affected part of the body. When used actively, the Reiki practitioner uses intention and visualization to work directly on the condition being treated.
What does it involve?
The method of receiving a Reiki treatment from a practitioner is a very simple process. Although the Reiki practitioner may ask questions about the client’s health prior to treatment, it is important to note that no diagnosis, prognosis or advice will be offered. Remaining fully clothed, the client prepares for treatment by relaxing on a massage couch, or sitting if that is more comfortable. The practitioner gently places their hands in a sequence of positions which cover the whole body. The hands can be placed on or slightly above the body but are always non intrusive. The whole person is treated with particular intention directed towards any specific symptoms. A full treatment usually takes 1 to 1½ hours with each hand position held for a few minutes.
What is it good for?
Reiki is very helpful in dealing with emotional and physical issues caused by stress and anxiety and is a beneficial support in the treatment sleep disorders. It can also be used to relieve the symptoms of chronic illnesses and has been shown to be particularly helpful in managing and relieving chronic pain often producing long-term beneficial changes. In most cases the practitioner will suggest a course of four, six or twelve treatments for maximum benefit. Reiki has become an accepted method of complementary therapy for many disorders as well as palliative care for cancer sufferers in many hospitals in the UK and USA.
What are the benefits?
Aside from the benefits of potential healing effects on physical, mental and emotional problems, most clients report that a Reiki treatment feels wonderful, and promotes a tremendous sense of relaxation and well being.
What are the side effects and when should it be avoided?
As a general rule, Reiki can’t do any harm because it is a form of non-invasive energy healing and will adjust itself to create the most appropriate effect for each individual person. However, although most people feel peaceful and relaxed after treatment, it can stir up emotions as part of the healing process. Some people also experience a healing reaction such as a headache or flu like symptoms, but any discomfort should be short-lived.