March 18, 2007

Reiki: The Unseen, Vital Life-Force

Reiki (pronounced ray-key) is composed of two Japanese words. Rei means “God’s wisdom or the higher power” and ki means “life-force energy” or the animating power in nature and the body. Combined, Reiki means “universal life-energy.” This ancient Asian practice involves the laying-of-hands to facilitate balance and harmony of mind, body and spirit.

Reiki is simple, having to do with one’s primordial energy. This energy is not to be manipulated, as in pressure-point therapies, but is channeled through the Practitioner’s hands. Reiki is felt by sensations such as tingling and warmth. It is subtle but effective, balancing vibratory pulsations to assist the body’s self-healing mechanisms.

Reiki is flexible, unpredictable and mysterious, traveling in ways unimagined, but it works. It is safe, having no medical contraindications, and its effects can be immediate. It is a noninvasive method of both stimulating the flow of energy and easing muscle and emotional tension.

Reiki is gentle and is helpful for stress reduction, revitalization and expanded awareness. This low-frequency, low-intensity energy has a therapeutic effect. Due to its very nature, Reiki works for health, wholeness and well being, including unconditional love for oneself and others.

Prior to coming to Japan, Reiki was used by Tibetan Lamas for meditation and as a discipline for growth and healing. It strengthens and stabilizes one’s spirit. Perhaps because Reiki has its roots in Tibetan Buddhism, Reiki Massage has been called the Zen of Bodywork.

Reiki Principle: Reiki Massage Practice

Just for today: Focus on the present moment, aware of sensations
Let go of anger: Transform anger into positive energies for constructive action
Let go of worry: Notice thoughts, not engaging them, like passing clouds
Give thanks: Express gratitude to your self, the client and Reiki guides
Work honestly: Seek improvement, especially on your self, with integrity
Be kind: Be thoughtful and compassionate, for the client’s highest good


If whatever you think comes true, don’t let it go to your head, and don’t forget to be humble…
The precious stone is not shining. It seems because you forgot to polish it...
I should polish my self, more and more, to use the others’ clear and shining heart as a mirror.

The Meiji-Emperor, selected poems (1868-1912)

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