What is Reiki?

Reiki can be translated as ‘rei’ meaning 'spiritual' (or universal) and ‘ki’ meaning meaning ’energy’. So Reiki is the channelling of spiritual energy for the recipients highest good - to balance the mind, body and soul and this in turn can bring about healing. Reiki was initially a self-healing method which then developed into a method to help others. It is quite common for people to go on to learn Reiki themselves after receiving Reiki from a practitioner.

The term ‘healing’ comes from the ancient Saxon word 'haelen' which means 'to make whole' - as in mind, body and spirit, and should not be confused with a cure for disease.  Reiki is complimentary to modern medicine and not an alternative therapy. The way in which the energy channelled is used by the body is not under the control of the practitioner, so I make no claims as to the effectiveness, although all my clients find receiving Reiki a deeply relaxing experience. There has been research conducted that demonstrates the benefits of Reiki.

Reiki is a wonderful energy not just to receive, but also to channel, it allows clarity of thought and a deep relaxation and in some cases it brings about a complete change of life. There are many styles of Reiki. I practice a form of Reiki that has its roots in the original Japanese methods.

Distance healing can be sent and will be received at time to suit the individual as Reiki (and indeed all energy work) is not constrained by time and space. A Western development has been to give Reiki to animals and plants. Most animals welcome Reiki and cats seem  particularly curious, while horses and dogs also enjoy it. House plants seem to thrive on a little Reiki to their roots! 

Reiki is a form of spiritual energy and for many practitioners, a way of life. It is a healing method and not a religion and as such is acceptable to people from a wide range of faiths however, you do not have to believe in any form of religion for it to be effective.  Indeed, you don’t even have to believe in Reiki for it to work!

Reiki was developed in Japan by Mikao Usui around 1920, though elements go back many hundreds of years.  The history of Reiki is complex and constantly changing as new information is brought to light in Japan.  If you are interested in learning more about the history of Reiki, I highly recommend The Reiki Sourcebook - the details are on the ‘Books & Music’ page.