I still have a hard time succinctly answering the question, What is Reiki?. I want to say, Let me show you. But here is a bit more of an explanation of what is Reiki and how it works.

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a Japanese energy system for healing, promoting stress reduction and relaxation. The word Reiki translates to universal life energy. Reiki was discovered in Japan by Mikao Usui who began teaching Reiki in the early 1920s.

The Reiki system is made up of five main elements, which are:

• Precepts
• Meditation and techniques
• Hands-on healing
• Symbols and mantras
• Attunements

How does Reiki work?

Reiki uses Universal Life Force Energy (also known as Chi and Prana) to help the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Energy is the foundation of life; it simultaneously flows through us and from us.

Simply put, when your energy levels are low or disrupted you are more likely to get sick or feel stressed. And if your energy is high and flowing freely you feel happy and healthy.

When you use Reiki you are tapping into the Universal Life Force Energy. A Reiki Practitioner transfers (also referred to as channels) this energy to create balance and wholeness. Healing and true wellness is achieved by returning your entire being into balance. You begin to feel well when you are whole.

It is important to note that the Reiki Practitioner does not generate Reiki, it surrounds us and we are Reiki.

Healing doesn’t mean the damage never existed.

It means the damage no longer controls your life.

~ Akshay Dubey

What does Reiki do?

Reiki supports your health and emotional well-being. Reiki is completely safe and cannot interfere with any medical treatment. In fact, Reiki has been delivered in many medical environments (i.e., operating rooms and infusion suites). Most clients describe the experience of receiving a Reiki treatment as a deeply relaxing experience.

There is research to show that Reiki treatment can be effective for relaxation, pain management, reduced anxiety, reduced depression, and enhanced well-being. For more information about the scientifically proven benefits of Reiki see Pamela Miles’ site.

Other commonly reported benefits of Reiki are:

• Improved sleep
• Improved digestion
• Reduced stress
• Stronger self-esteem
• Support for substance abuse recovery
• Accelerated surgical recovery
• Reduced side effects from prescription drugs (including radiation and chemotherapy)
• Greater self awareness
• Greater ease and satisfaction in relationships
• Heightened intuition

The idea that Reiki is a relaxation and stress reducing technique is becoming quite accepted and widespread. Reiki can enhance other healing modalities, as well as assist with spiritual development.

Please note Reiki does not cure nor is it a replacement for allopathic treatment (mainstream medicine). Instead Reiki heals and is a wonderful companion.

I’d love to try Reiki, now what?

There are two ways to experience Reiki. You can find a Reiki practitioner and go for a treatment. Or you can learn how to give yourself Reiki treatments.

What does a Reiki treatment look like?

Reiki is applied via the practitioner’s hands while the client is either laying down or seated. There is no need to touch the client. The hands are placed slightly above the body transferring energy directly to the client. Treatments are typically 45 to 60 minutes in length.

How can I learn Reiki?

Anyone can learn Reiki; any age and any religion. It does not require a special talent or skill. It does require a Reiki Master to teach the theory and methods, and equally important, complete an attunement.

The attunement is what ensures that you can channel Reiki. You become aligned to the Reiki frequencies, like an antenna. At the end of a Reiki level 1, you should be able to complete Reiki self-treatments as well as give treatments to others with confidence.

The bottom line

Receiving Reiki treatments is so beneficial, but practicing the entire Reiki system will change your life. Are you ready?

My favourite resources

The International House of Reiki, Frans Stiene and his books

Reiki, Medicine & Self-Care, Pamela Miles

Penelop Quest’s books

Canadian Reiki Association