What Is Reiki?

Reiki is a healing method developed from an ancient Tibetan Buddhist technique, by Dr.Mikao Usui, in Japan around the early 1900’s.  “Rei” means spiritual wisdom and “Ki” means universal life energy force.  When our “Ki” or “Chi” is low or blocked we are more susceptible to illness.  Reiki can then be defined as “spiritually guided life energy force.”  This energy works on the Chakras and Meridian systems of the body to balance the flow of energy.    Although developed by Buddhists, Reiki is not a religion, nor does it require any specific religious beliefs from client or practitioner to be affective.   

How does it work?

The practitioner has been trained by a Reiki Master to allow energy, the same energy that is flowing all around us at all times, to flow through them and out through the palms of their hands.  This means that the practitioner does not use his or her own energy to heal, and the client’s energy intelligence will pull more intensely where the balancing is needed the most.  If you look at the Chakra System, you will see 7 main circles, all representing different emotions, physical body systems, in different colors.  These are what the practitioner will be focusing on, these Chakras or “Energy Wheels” are what are responsible for the healthy flow of energy throughout the entire body. 

Fun Fact: Dr Robert Becker, Dr John Zimmerman and Max Cade experiments have shown the biomagnetic energy coming from a Reiki practitioners hands to emit over 1000 times more than normal.  For more information check out http://www.ttem.org/forum/index.php?topic=143.0 

Why choose Reiki?

Reiki is a non-invasive treatment that has no contraindications.  The treatment is balancing the body, emotions, mind and spirit.  In a few words, Reiki energy goes where it is needed the most.   Although every treatment varies, the very least that clients feel is deep relaxation, we all need that from time to time!  Imagine feeling absolute peace, almost like reaching a state of deep sleep or even meditation, only you are awake and fully aware, this is what most people feel when receiving a Reiki treatment.   However, in some cases in order for a blockage of any sort to be released, an individual may have to breathe through some discomfort and let go of a particular issue they have been holding on to.  It works at a cellular level, therefore while it would seem that you are just relaxing, there is so much more happening in your body.

 Fun Fact: Dr.Oz’s wife Lisa is a Reiki Master!  He recommended Reiki on his show.  Check out http://www.healingreikiclasses.com/become-a-reiki-master-now-says-dr-oz-from-oprah for details on this episode.

Where is Reiki practised?

Reiki practitioners can be found in various health facilities.  It can be used as a complimentary treatment for any healing technique.  Many hospitals, medical clinics and hospice programs in the United States integrate Reiki as an ingredient in standard care.  For more information you may go to http://www.centerforreikiresearch.org/.  However, one does not have to be a health care provider to become a Reiki practitioner.  It is a method that is open to anyone.  Many take the training to do self-healing or help a certain friend or family member.   There may be someone in your office that is a practitioner or perhaps even a neighbour.  Reiki can be practised anytime and anywhere, even while simply having a conversation. 

Is it safe?

Reiki is a non-invasive therapy that can be done on anyone.  There are no contraindications and it cannot do any harm.  This also means it can be done no matter what medications you are on, and will have always have a positive effect on the individual.  This is a very gentle yet powerful technique, the experience is not stressful. 

Who can benefit?

Everyone can benefit from Reiki, it affects the mind, body, emotions and spirit, and clients have left the treatment room feeling lighter, looser and even more grounded from before the treatment.  Some have even called the next day to give feedback on changes they have noticed in themselves after leaving the treatment room.  Reiki will continue to work in you even after leaving the treatment, so be aware of the changes that occur!  Here is a short list of benefits my clients have expressed.  

Benefits of Reiki:

Deep relaxation
Mind body balance
Calm mood swings
Manage regular headaches
Clear mind to assist problem solving
Detox of the body
Enhancing of the senses
Treating physical pain
Improve one's focus
Facilitate a spiritual connection
Ease emotional pain
Compliment medical treatments

What to expect in a treatment.

A standard treatment can be done with the client fully clothed, I say standard because some practitioners may incorporate Reiki into massage therapy or even use aromatherapy in a session.  There will only be very light contact, and at times no contact at all.  Even then, the client and practitioners will be able to feel the energy, this may feel like tingling, heat, cold and possibly dull aches on areas of past injuries or where there are major blockages.  It is important to understand that every treatment can be different, but that each time the energy is catering to specific needs.  Water is life, so it is crucial that the client drink more than usual after their Reiki treatment.  It’s OK to ask questions or comment on your treatment as you go along, your practitioner will be happy to address them.  Be open-minded, have fun and be inspired!