How Does Reiki Work?
Although many Asian healing systems have a history of thousands of years of use, reiki is not one of them. Reiki was developed in Japan by a Dr. of Theology, Mikao Usui in 1922. Although reiki itself is derived from the much older system of Qi Gong, the reiki we practice today is a combination of Dr. Usui’s principles, combined with some Tibetan disciplines known as Karuna. Mikao Usui had climbed to the top of mount Kurama tyo meditate and fast. After 21 days, he had an epiphany that led to the formalization of the basic reiki principles.
Mostly what we know of reiki is theoretical, because as yet, we have no way to detect reiki energy, but we can see it’s results, and we can control and use it. It is much like the world of physics, because on one has ever directly seen and electron, and their presence is detected only through their results (electrical current).
Due to the popularity of the Bruce Lee movies, and other martial arts depictions, most people are familiar with the concept of ki (Japanese), or chi (Chinese).The word reiki is actually a contraction of two Japanese words, Rei, which refers to a Higher Intelligence that guides creation and permeates everything, like the Christian ‘Light of God’. The second work, ki, is the non-physical energy that animates all living things, and is even present in non-living things to a degree. It also permeates, and surrounds everything. Reiki was obviously the basis for the concept of ‘The Force‘ in the Stars Wars movies. Martial Artists have learned to use ki to find their center, and allow them to do things outside the bounds of normal physical feats. Ki is also the basis for acupressure, reflexology, acupuncture, and Ayurveda. Reiki uses that same energy to create healing, and well-being.
Reiki energy flows along pathways through your body, known as meridians. When the flow of ki is interrupted, or blocked, then bad things begin to happen, such as disease, depression, etc…In reiki, as well as most other Asian healing systems, the object is to find these trouble spots, and restore the flow of reiki. There are 7 areas that are junctions for the meridians, and treating these areas can often result in amazing results very quickly. The most common term for them is Chakras, which is an ancient Sanskrit word meaning ‘circle’, or ‘wheel’. Chakras are where reiki energy enters the body before branching out into the individual meridian pathways. Each chakra is located in a different part of the body, and controls different emotional and physical aspects of the individual, and each one has a specific color associated with it. A reiki practitioner will place his, or her hands over each chakra to channel reiki energy directly to the trouble spot. Many people say they can feel heat, and tingling sensations when this is done. Some practitioners may actually place their hands directly on you, while others just place them within your aura. There is no consensus as to which method is best, but in some states, touching anyone in any way constitutes massage, and will require a license. As long as a practitioner does not make actual physical contact with you, a license is not required in any state that I am aware of at this time. In any case, many reiki practitioners are also doctors, nurses and licensed massage therapists, so its usually not much of an issue, either way.
Reiki is physically painless, but some people do have some emotional reactions to it. This is a result of the pathways being cleared and they can now feel all their emotions, many for the first times in their lives. Reiki addresses mental and emotional problems as well as physical.
While anyone can learn to use reiki to a certain extent, to get really significant results, reiki should be administered by a formally trained reiki practitioner who has been attuned to the appropriate level. Trained reiki practitioners and Masters have been taught how to properly channel the reiki energy through their hands, in order to get the best results. They also have been trained in procedures for specific purposes. Regardless of who you use, or if you decide to try it on yourself, reiki can never do any harm, even if done improperly. It is the absolute safest thing you can do for yourself.
**** Reiki does not take the place of standard medical care. It is complimentary only. If you feel you have a medical problem, see a physician as soon as possible. This article is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice in any way, shape, or form.
