Reiki is a natural, gentle, but effective therapy that induces deep relaxation and can initiate healing of the body, mind and spirit. It is perfectly safe for anyone to receive Reiki and it is also a wonderful experience for animals. It can also be used for situations, community and environmental healing and integrated into other therapies.

It is believed that the origins of Reiki lay in Tibet, but that the ability to practice it was lost. It was rediscovered in Japan in the early 1900s by its founder Mikao Usui, and  introduced to the West in about 1938. Since then, Reiki has become increasingly popular and is know practised and taught all over the world.

Reiki is an energy therapy that utilises the use of ‘Chi’ or ‘Life energy’. It involves the practitioner placing their hands on specific areas of the recipient’s body and allowing the energy to flow very naturally. It is non-invasive and is performed whilst you are fully clothed and usually lying comfortably on a treatment couch.

As the life energy is received, it naturally detects and flows to areas of the energy body that are blocked or imbalanced. Each individual’s energy system is similar to a series of centres and vessels that draw in essential life energy and feed the body with a healthy and adequate flow. There are times when the centres of the energy field become imbalanced and areas become ‘blocked’. When this occurs, life energy does not flow effectively throughout the system.

Factors such as emotional problems, too much stress, poor diet, inappropriate lifestyle, illness and the environment can cause areas to become imbalanced and blocked. If blocked centres are not remedied, life energy will not flow where it is needed and illness can manifest itself. Reiki works by breaking down and removing these blockages.

A Reiki treatment is extremely relaxing and feels similar to being in a meditative state. Many people who have received Reiki treatment report feeling more positive, relaxed and harmonious, with an increased energy and vitality.

Regular Reiki treatments assist with keeping the energy system balanced which can help to prevent future problems. They are beneficial for high blood pressure problems and for any stress or emotional related problems. Reiki has also been found to be beneficial for assisting with pain management conditions, especially for chronic ones such as arthritis.

Reiki treatments can be extremely helpful for cancer sufferers. The relaxing effects of treatments assist with maintaining a positive attitude and help to manage pain and the negative effects of some medication. It can also bring relief from anxiety and fear in terminal cases.

Reiki can be easily learned by anyone. A Reiki class can teach you to give Reiki to others and treat yourself. It is taught in levels, or degrees, by a Reiki Master. Taking a level one class will enable you to give Reiki to yourself, family and friends.

It is important to find the right Reiki teacher for you before taking a class with them. Ideally you should meet your teacher before committing to any training, to ensure there is a good rapport between you. Also ask questions about their training, experience and qualifications. Your training should be accredited by a recognised therapy organisation. This ensures that your teacher is professional, teaches to a code of conduct and that any qualifications you receive are recognised.

You can learn more about Reiki and Reiki training from the books and websites below.

Julie Burke
SPA.ITEC.Cert.Ed
Member of the Complementary Therapists Association
for Third Age.

Reiki Fire
Frank Arjava Petter (Lotus Light Publications)

UK Reiki Information and Courses:
Julie Burke (Approved Reiki Master -  Complementary Therapists Association)
www.merrymeetcottage.weebly.com