Loading...

What is Reiki?

Understanding Reiki

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a gentle Japanese energy-based wellness practice that encourages relaxation, calmness and a sense of inner balance.

The word Reiki is commonly understood as a combination of two Japanese words: Rei, referring broadly to universal or spiritual, and Ki, meaning life energy.

In a traditional Reiki session, a practitioner uses a series of gentle hand positions, either lightly placed on the body or held just above it, with the intention of supporting the recipient's relaxation and overall sense of wellbeing.

Reiki does not require any particular religious belief or spiritual background. People may experience it simply as a quiet opportunity to pause, relax and reconnect with themselves.

Reiki

STILLNESS • AWARENESS • WELLBEING

At its heart, Reiki is about creating space for stillness, awareness and wellbeing.

Origin of Reiki
History

Origin of Reiki

Reiki originated in Japan in the early 20th century and is associated with Mikao Usui, who developed and taught the system that became known as Usui Reiki.

Usui's teachings emphasized spiritual development, personal discipline, compassion and living with greater awareness. Reiki subsequently spread through different teachers and practitioners and eventually reached many parts of the world.

Complementary Wellness

Reiki as a Complementary Wellness Practice

Reiki is best understood as a complementary wellness practice, rather than a replacement for medical diagnosis or treatment.

People may choose Reiki as part of a broader approach to their wellbeing, alongside healthy lifestyle choices, mindfulness, meditation and appropriate professional healthcare.

A Reiki session may provide an opportunity to:

  • Slow down and relax
  • Create quiet time for yourself
  • Develop greater self-awareness
  • Support a sense of emotional calm
  • Complement relaxation and mindfulness practices
  • Explore personal wellbeing and inner balance

Reiki should not be used as a substitute for medical or mental-health care, particularly when someone has a medical condition or significant symptoms.

Your wellbeing can have many dimensions—physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. Reiki can be one gentle practice within that larger journey.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: Reiki is a complementary wellness practice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or medical condition. Reiki should not replace medical or mental-health treatment. If you have a health concern, please consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.