Reiki

Historical Background

Reiki, a Japanese word meaning “Universal Life Force Energy,” is a holistic healing technique that originated in Japan in the early 20th century. Rooted in ancient Eastern traditions, Reiki is a complementary therapy for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The practice of Reiki aims to balance and harmonize the body’s energy, promoting natural healing processes.

Reiki’s origins can be traced back to the early 1920s when Mikao Usui, a Japanese spiritual teacher, developed the system. Usui drawing inspiration from Buddhist teachings, Tendai, martial arts practice, Shintoism and spiritual mountain practice, Shugendo formulated a method to channel healing energy through the hands. Chijuro Hayashi was intitiated by Usui and went on to teach Hawayo Takata. Takata was a Japanese-American woman born in Hawaii who introduced the spiritual practice to the Western world. In 1936, Takata was given Shoden (Beginner Teachings, Level 1) and in 1937 Okuden (Inner Teachings, Level 2) by Dr. Hayashi after which she returned to Hawaii. Soon after Hayashi came to visit and they worked together to establish Reiki in Hawaii. In 1938, Takata was initiated into Shinpiden (Mystery Teachings, Reiki Master) by Hayashi after which he returned to Japan. Takata practiced and taught for 40 years, initiating 22 Reiki Masters.

It is believed that the closer a Reiki Master is to the original teachings of Mikao Usui, the stronger the potential for energetic healing. Dr. Kowata began Reiki Level 1 teachings in 1997 and was fully initiated in 2000 at Master Level.  Tenchi Shiki Mikkyo Reiki empowers her as a sixth generation Reiki Master level practitioner along the Usui lineage.  

Principles of Reiki:

At the core of Reiki philosophy are five principles or affirmations known as the Five Reiki Precepts. These principles serve as a guide for practitioners to cultivate a positive mindset and foster emotional well-being.

1. Just for today, I will not be angry.
2. Just for today, I will not worry.
3. Just for today, I will be grateful.
4. Just for today, I will do my work honestly.
5. Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing. 

Benefits of Reiki:

Reiki involves the transfer of energy from the practitioner to the recipient through light touch or simply placing the hands near the body. The practitioner acts as a channel for the universal life energy, directing it to specific areas of the body that may require healing. The process is non-invasive and is often described as a deeply relaxing experience. Proponents of Reiki claim a wide range of benefits associated with the practice. These include:

1. Stress Reduction: Reiki helps in reducing stress and promoting relaxation, which can contribute to overall well-being.
2. Pain Management: Many individuals report relief from chronic pain conditions through regular Reiki sessions.
3. Emotional Healing: Reiki is believed to aid in emotional healing by releasing blocked or stagnant energy and promoting emotional balance.
4. Improved Sleep: Many individuals experience improved sleep patterns and better quality of sleep after Reiki sessions.
5. Enhanced Spiritual Awareness: Reiki is also seen as a tool for spiritual growth and self-discovery, fostering a deeper connection with one’s inner self.

Reiki, with its roots in ancient Eastern traditions, has found a place in modern wellness practices. As the interest in holistic well-being grows, Reiki stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of ancient healing practices in the contemporary world.