Reiki is a Japanese healing modality that involves channeling universal life force energy (Ki or Chi) through the practitioner’s hands to promote healing and overall well-being. It is based on the belief that this life force energy flows through all living beings and can be utilized to address physical, emotional, and spiritual imbalances. Reiki is a gentle and non-invasive practice that aims to harmonize and balance the body’s energy, supporting the body’s natural healing processes. It is often used as a complementary therapy to conventional medical treatments to enhance relaxation, reduce stress, and promote a sense of peace and calm.
Reiki Origin History
Mikao Usui
Buddhist Monk & Healer
Reiki traces its roots to Mikao Usui, a Japanese Buddhist monk and healer. Usui embarked on a quest for spiritual enlightenment and healing abilities, leading him to develop the system of Reiki. In the early 20th century, Usui experienced a profound spiritual awakening on Mount Kurama, where he received the energy and knowledge of Reiki.
After his enlightenment experience, Usui founded Usui Reiki Ryoho, a system of energy healing and spiritual development. Usui taught Reiki to numerous students, and the practice gradually spread throughout Japan and beyond. Usui’s teachings emphasized self-healing, personal growth, and transmitting healing energy by laying on hands.
Chujiro Hayashi
Naval Physician
One of Usui’s prominent students was Chujiro Hayashi, a retired naval officer. Hayashi expanded on Usui’s teachings and developed his approach to Reiki, which included a more structured and systematic method of hand positions and treatment protocols. Hayashi’s contributions were instrumental in popularizing Reiki and making it more accessible to a broader audience.