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REIKI
Reiki (pronounced Ray-key) is a Japanese word meaning Universal Life Energy, an energy which is all around us.
Natural Healing
Reiki is the name given to a system of natural healing which evolved in Japan from the experience and dedication of Dr Mikao Usui (d. 1926). Fired by a burning question, Dr Usui was inspired to develop this healing system from ancient teachings after many years of study, research and meditation. He spent the rest of his life practising and teaching Reiki. Today Reiki continues to be taught by Reiki Masters who have trained in the tradition passed down from Master to student.
There is no belief system attached to Reiki so anyone can receive or learn to give a Reiki treatment, the only prerequisite is the desire to be healed.
A Reiki Treatment
The method of receiving a Reiki treatment from a practitioner is a very simple process. The recipient simply lies on a couch and relaxes. If they are unable to lie down the treatment can be given in a sitting position, the main thing is for the recipient to be as comfortable as possible. There is no need to remove any clothing as Reiki will pass through anything, even plaster casts. The practitioner gently places their hands non-intrusively in a sequence of positions which cover the whole body. The whole person is treated rather than specific symptoms. A full treatment usually takes 1 to 1½ hours with each position held for several minutes.
It is possible to heal at any level of being: physical, mental, emotional or spiritual. Acute injuries can be helped to heal very quickly but more chronic illness takes longer. In some cases such as terminal illness, there is not enough time for the progress of the disease to be reversed. However, in such cases there is usually great benefit and enhancement of the quality of life giving a sense of peace and acceptance during the time remaining.
Reiki healing can be given anywhere at any time as no special equipment is needed. The practitioner is a channel which the energy is drawn through by the need or imbalance in the recipient. Neither person has to use any effort of will or concentration during this process.
As running water smoothes the jagged edges of a rock until it is small enough to roll away, Reiki flows to the areas of need, soothing pain and supporting the body's natural ability to heal itself. Reiki restores balance in one's life.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A TREATMENT?
The practitioner will usually give a short explanation of what the treatment involves and ask for some details about you, which may include a short medical history. If no explanation is given don't be afraid to ask what is involved. You will be asked to lie (or sit if this is easier for you) as comfortably as possible. You will not be asked to remove any clothing except for anything which may restrict your breathing or comfort, such as out-door clothing, shoes, spectacles or contact lenses. This is so that you can feel comfortable and relaxed during the treatment. Reiki will go through clothing, blankets or even a plaster cast if necessary!
Treatment is given by the practitioner placing her/his hands gently on your body in a pre-determined sequence of hand positions, which are non-intrusive and cover both the front and back of the body. The hand positions are sometimes varied to give Reiki to areas where it is needed that are not covered by the usual hand positions. If you find any of the hand positions uncomfortable don't be afraid to tell the practitioner so.
The practitioner's touch should be gentle, light and comfortable, although sometimes people experience intense heat from the practitioner's hands. There is no massage or manipulation. You may feel sensations under the practitioners' hands or in other parts of your body. You may feel heat, tingling, coolness, throbbing or other sensations. You may feel very little, although many people experience a sense of well being and relaxation - some even fall asleep! Sometimes a treatment can be energising: there is no right or wrong way to experience Reiki.
The practitioner will spend several minutes holding each position, the whole treatment lasting at least 1 hour.
HOW WILL I FEEL AFTER THE TREATMENT?
Most people feel very relaxed and at peace after Reiki treatments, although Reiki can also stir up emotions as part of the healing process. You may feel tired, but sometimes full of energy. Some people also experience a healing reaction, such as headaches, cold or flu-like symptoms. These symptoms are normally of short duration. If you are concerned about a reaction to a treatment talk to your practitioner, who should be able to reassure you.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
This varies from person to person. In general most problems will take time to heal - healing with Reiki is a process rather than an event. In general acute problems heal faster than chronic ones. If your problem is of long standing it may require treatments over a longer period of time. Your Reiki practitioner may suggest that you have a number of treatments close together or 4 treatments on 4 consecutive days. However, while a Reiki practitioner may suggest how treatments should be spaced and encourage you to continue, you should feel free to make the decision about what treatment you wish to receive. You are ultimately responsible for your health and well being. | |
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