Reiki – A Brief History

Reiki is a form of energy that can be used for self-treatment and well-being. It originated in Japan in the mid-19th century. It was discovered by Mikao Usui (1895-1926), a Japanese Christian monk, who traveled to America to learn theology. He aimed to understand the healing powers of Christ through the imposition of hands.

After many years of study and without finding the answer to his question, Mikao Usui returned to Japan. There he discovered formulas and symbols that could shed some light on the matter. Therefore, to meditate on what he had found, he went to the sacred Mount Kurama in 1922 for 21 days. There he tryed to reach the level of consciousness necessary to achieve that goal. And then, on the last day, he had a revelation, which showed him Sanskrit symbols written in gold.

After this revelation, he quickly realized that he had the power to heal many ailments of the body through his hands. So he spent many years of his life helping and healing the poor.

A few years later, he decided it was important to teach what he had discovered. Consequently, he opened a big center in Tokyo for healing and teaching. He also travelled a lot in Japan, making that knowledge available to many. Then,  from Japan, his teachings spread throughout the world.

What Is Reiki?

The word “Reiki” comes from two Japanese words: “Rei,” meaning God’s Wisdom or Higher Power, and “Ki,” meaning life force energy. Reiki, thus, means spiritual vital energy. It’s the same as Qi for the Chinese, Prana for the Hindus, and Light or Life for the Christians. Reiki energy is used for self-treatment and well-being.

This holistic practice has at its core the belief that life force energy flows through all living beings. Therefore, we can use it to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Practitioners of Reiki use their hands to channel energy into a person’s body. Their objective is to restore its natural flow, which is believed to be crucial for overall harmony and well-being.

Although spiritual in nature, Reiki is not a religion, and you don’t have to believe in it to experience its benefits. Nevertheless, it is important to live and act according to simple ethical ideals. These ideals promote harmony and well-being and are universal in almost all cultures.
Mikao Usui added these Ideals to the practice of Reiki. He aimed for people to understand that part of this healing experience comes from an active commitment to healing the spirit by constantly improving oneself,

The secret art of inviting happiness,
The miraculous medicine of all diseases:
Just for today, do not anger,
Do not worry, and be filled with gratitude.
Devote yourself to your work. Be kind to people.
Every morning and evening, join your hands in prayer.
Pray these words to your heart
and chant these words with your mouth.
Usui Reiki Treatment for the improvement of body and mind.

The founder,
Usui Mikao

How Does It Work?

One of the key principles of Reiki is that when our energy is low or blocked, we are more susceptible to disharmony, stress, and emotional imbalance. So, by releasing energy blocks, our energy circulates more freely throughout our body, restoring well-being and a sense of balance.

A typical session

Reiki sessions typically involve the practitioner placing their hands lightly on or just above the recipient’s body. Then, he follows a series of positions, allowing the energy to flow to where it is most needed.
The practitioner should not be attached to a specific goal but should merely wish for their patient to feel better. Moreover, the receiver must be open to the treatment and desire to get better.

The benefits and indications

This process seems to activate the body’s natural restorative abilities, promoting relaxation and a sense of peace and well-being and reducing stress.
It is the conviction of the practitioners that Reiki strengthens the body and spirit, balances energy circulation by releasing energy blockages, and cleanses the body of toxins and poisons. It also cleanses and protects environments from negative energies.

Reiki is a gentle and non-invasive practice, making it accessible to people of all ages and health conditions. While it is not a replacement for conventional medical treatment, which should never be stopped without a doctor’s advice, many people find that Reiki is a complement to other forms of therapy. As a result, it helps them manage pain, anxiety, and other conditions.

Whether you are seeking to improve your health, enhance your spiritual awareness, or experience deep relaxation, Reiki offers a powerful way to connect with the healing energy that exists within and around us all.

The correct approach

It is important to approach Reiki energy with respect and mindfulness, recognizing it as a profound force that supports our well-being.

This energy should be treated with care and gratitude, as it is a gift that helps us reconnect with our true selves and the world around us. By honoring the Reiki energy, we create a harmonious environment for restoring well-being and personal growth, allowing this ancient practice to work its magic in our lives.

My Experience with Reiki

It was in June 2015 that I received the knowledge and energy transmission (“attunement”) of the First Level of Reiki, which was passed to me by Mme Sophie Fadier, a French Reiki Master.
Some years later I was formed to the Second Level, which allows the work at a distance, both in time and space.

I mainly use it for myself, as self-treatment, with good results, especially when I have digestive issues or am feeling stressed or anxious.

The best way to profit from its great power is to use it daily. Moreover, the simplicity of its use makes it compatible with daily utilization either in the morning or at night or even when you have a little moment of rest and peace during your day.

If you want to know more about reiki, you can contact the International Center for Reiki Training here.