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What is Reiki?

Rifa Bhunnoo
May 2004

Reiki is an ancient form of hands-on healing, revived from Tibetan Buddhist scripts by Mikao Usui in Japan in the late 1800s.  Since reiki (which means 'universal life-force') came to the West in 1938, many thousands of people have felt the therapeutic benefits from reiki treatments. Even more people from all walks of life are learning how to heal themselves and others.

What is Reiki therapy?

The practice of Reiki is believed to come from ancient texts rediscovered and developed by Mikao Usui in Japan early last century.  The Japanese word Rei-ki means 'Universal Energy'.  Eastern medicine has always recognised and worked with this energy, which flows through all living things and is vital to the well-being of life.  The energy is known as 'ki' in Japan, 'chi' in China, and 'prana' in India. Acupuncture, tai chi and yoga are also based on the free-flow of this energy in a person.  As a therapy, Reiki is an effective and simple way of tapping into this energy, and transferring it for the benefit of the receiver, to stimulate the body's own natural healing potential.

What are the Benefits?

The energy of Reiki can be used to great effect in many ways.  Whether one is suffering from stress or tension, and the many symptoms associated with this, or wishing to improve the quality of relationships at home or work, the beneficial effects of Reiki occur on many levels.  Reiki can accelerate the healing of physical problems, balance the emotions, and free us from restrictive mental attitudes.  It may also provide a closer connection with inner wisdom.

Reiki encourages and supports positive personal change such as improving the diet, having more rest, exercise or leisure time, and may reduce the need for alcohol and tobacco.  Reiki can allow us to respond more calmly to all events, and build on a more resourceful state of being. Reiki is a gentle energy and may be used safely by all ages, including the newborn, pregnant mothers, surgical patients, the frail and the elderly, regardless of their state of health.  Reiki can enhance everyday life, and regular sessions help to ward-off illness and fatigue.

Reiki is a non-invasive therapy that can be used without fear of any side-effects or overdose.  It may be used with confidence alongside conventional medication or natural remedies because it acts in a complementary way.  Reiki is being used in GP surgeries, hospices, cancer support groups, post-operative recovery, drug rehabilitation, prisons, HIV / AIDS centres, and care of the elderly.

What happens in a treatment?

A session is usually carried out with the client lying down or sitting, in a comfortable and peaceful environment.  There is no need to remove any clothing. The practitioner places their hands gently, in a series of positions, on or over the body. The client's system automatically draws in only as much Reiki as is needed, using it in whatever way is most appropriate at the time.  Reiki may be felt as a flow of energy, mild tingling, warmth, coolness, other sensations, or nothing at all.  Reiki is deeply relaxing, eases stress, and has a calming effect. Treatment is enhanced if one can rest for a while afterwards and drink plenty of water to help the body detox.  Be responsive to the needs of your body, eg resting if tired, and allow the energy to continue its work after the session ends.  The beneficial effects may be felt for several days.

The author practices Reiki and runs workshops, further details can be found on her website: www.brightonreiki.co.uk