Reiki (pronounced Ray-Key) is the name of a complementary therapy technique that is deeply relaxing, which helps to reduce stress and can promote healing. When the Reiki practitioner places their hands on you an unseen "vital life energy" flows into your body. This "vital life energy is what keeps us and every other living thing alive. If one's "vital life energy" is low, then we are more likely to become ill and be stressed. The word Reiki is made of two Japanese words. A direct translation is very difficult as there are many meanings, however the main one that is accepted is that - Rei means "Universal, God's Wisdom or the Higher Intelligence" and Ki means "vital life energy". So Reiki is actually "spiritually guided vital life energy" which can be used more or less at any time and any place.
Dr Mikao Usui, who was born in Japan in 1865, most recently rediscovered it. He studied many subjects including medicine, psychology, religion and spiritual development and he also studied Buddhism. During a 21 day retreat, he meditated under a waterfall with the stream falling on his head. This resulted in an enlightening experience receiving the Reiki energy in the form of attunements. He began practising and then teaching Reiki. One of his students taught a Hawaiian woman called Hawayo Takata Reiki who brought Reiki to the West.
During the session all you need to do is take off your shoes, and lie down on the table. You may experience states of deep relaxation, heat, tingling sensations and energy releases, people often fall asleep.
Reiki is a holistic, complementary practice that can aid relaxation, balance and healing. It is compatible with all other forms of medicine, assisting the body to make the most of the medications available. Reiki helps to normalise the entire range of bodily functions, furthering overall good health and supporting the body in self-healing.
I have been practising Reiki since 1990 when I completed my Reiki I and Reiki II training. I became a Reiki Master/Teacher in 2000 and have also attended Reiki I and Reiki II trainings as a refresher in 2001.
A Reiki session lasts up to an hour.