What Is Reiki?
Reiki is a gentle, safe and holistic system of healing working to harmonise, heal and balance the body, mind, emotions and spirit. In the west today Reiki is presented by many, simply as a system of healing. Many traditional Japanese teachers call the system ‘Reiki Ryoho’ which means ‘spiritual energy healing method’.
What Does The Word Reiki Mean?
The word Reiki is Japanese in origin and is made up of two words: rei, meaning ‘spiritual’ and ki, meaning ‘energy’ and refers to the life force within us and around us – the life force of the entire universe. Most cultures have a name for this ‘life energy’, known as c’hi in Chinese acupuncture and Tai Chi and prana in Sandskrit and Yoga.
The word Reiki is pronounced Rey-kee in the west and Lay-kee in Japan. Reiki is also a system of healing and spiritual development as taught by Dr Usui, the founder of Reiki.
How Did Reiki Originate?
Dr Usui was the dean of a Christian university in Kyoto, Japan, in the latter half of the 19th Century. He was also a Buddhist who taught his students within the framework of Buddhism and devoted his life to unravelling the mystery of healing.
This does not mean that Reiki is a Buddhist practice, but it does mean that Dr Usui taught his students about the laws of karma and the importance of using Reiki with good motivation. Reiki is a culmination of everything Dr Usui learned and is about re-establishing the connection to our true spiritual nature and enabling us to follow a more spiritual path.
How Does Reiki Work?
Energy of ‘ki’ flows through us and keeps us alive and healthy, ki runs through pathways in our body called meridians. When the flow of ki is disrupted or blocked usually by negative emotions such as fear, worry, resentment and anger this energy will stagnate and physical or mental illness, pain or disease can occur.
Reiki goes to the heart of the problem and works on clearing any blockages and restoring the healthy flow of ki.
What To Expect In A Reiki Treatment
You will be invited to lie comfortably on a therapy bed fully clothed. Little or no pressure is applied and no oils are used. A Reiki treatment lasts for one hour and the technique is so adaptable that you can receive it in almost any setting, in a chair or hospital bed.
During treatments Reiki practitioners use specific hand positions that correspond to the physical body, its organs and the seven chakras. The chakras are centres of concentrated energy that vibrate over specific areas of the body. Reiki energy gently balances the chakras and the energy field that surrounds the body, as well as soothing physical and emotional complaints.
Reiki works to clear any blockages and restore the healthy flow of Ki. In this way our healthy balance (or homeostasis) is restored and good health returns.
The Benefits Of A Reiki Treatment
Reiki treatments from a qualified and experienced practitioner can be an incredibly positive experience resulting in:
- Deep relaxation
- A marked improvement in one’s overall well-being
- Alleviation of pain and stress
- Relieving anxiety and depression
- Relaxation helping to restore immune function and improve circulation
- Promoting healing throughout the body
Marie is an Energy Practitioner and Reiki Master in Balmain, Sydney. Reiki therapy includes Chakra work to harmonise and balance mind, body and spirit.