Reiki is a very ancient form of healing with its origins in Tibet. It was rediscovered by a Japanese man named Dr Miko Usui in the middle of the 19th Century - hence its Japanese name.
Reiki involves the channelling of Universal Energy using gentle, light hand touch. Everyone has the potential to feel and use this energy, but a practioner will have had their energy pathways opened and attuned to these energy wavelengths, and can channel the energy for particular purposes.
It is based on the chakra energy system of Buddhist culture, whereby there are 7 main energy centres throughout the body, each with their own physical and emotional correspondences. The flow of Reiki energy will clear any blockages that occur in the chakras and will balance them all, so that the individual person feels more balanced and 'whole'.
What is Reiki good for?
Reiki is a very safe therapy that can be used for almost all conditions, whether physical or emotional, acute or chronic. The Reiki energy will go where it is needed most, and has the potential to heal many conditons. It is a tool for empowerment and self-transformation, and for universal good.
Reiki tries to harmonise the flow of energy throughout the whole person: mind, body and spirit. It promotes health, wholeness and creative energy. Stimulating the body’s energy, and relieving stress and tension, will help your own immune system and enhance your body’s natural ability to heal itself.
What form does a Reiki treatment take?
A Reiki treatment can take a number of forms. In clinical practice this usually involves the practioner using their hands with a gentle, light touch, to channel energy through each of the energy centres. In order to balance the whole person, a set sequence of hand positions may well be used, especially in initial treatments. However, the practioner may also concentrate on particular areas that are felt to need more work. Where a full treatment is not possible, the practioner can spend a more limited amount of time concentrating on channelling Reiki to the most needy areas. It is also possible work 'off body' if this is appropriate, e.g. if the client has a problem which is very painful to touch. In addition, more advanced Reiki practioners can do distance healing.
Reiki can be carried out anywhere and anytime, but in a clinical situation it would be normal for the client to lay on a couch, or other comfortable surface. The client would remain fully clothed throughout, and should wear loose-fitting, but warm comfortable clothing including socks. It is inadvisable to eat a heavy meal in the 2 hours prior to the treatment.
What does Reiki feel like?
Wonderful! During a treatment, it is common to drift into a deep meditative state and many people feel movements of energy, such as pleasurable tingling or warmth, some see colours and hear sounds. After a treatment it is likely you would feel deeply relaxed and sleep very deeply. Energetic changes can take place between treatments as the body's energy rebalances itself, but these are rarely unpleasant - though emotional feelings may surface.
Are there any side-effects?
Reiki is safe to receive in conjunction with any other form of treatment, and will not adversely react with any medication. In fact it will likely reduce any adverse side-effects of medication and boost the therapeutic effects. However, any concerns pre- and post- treatment should be discussed with your practioner.
