What is Reiki?

 The easiest way to define Reiki (pronounced ray-key) is to break it down into it's component parts. Reiki comes from Japanese Kanji combining Rei and Ki. The general meaning of Rei is universal. Ki is Life Energy. Together we have a kanji meaning Universal Life Energy. Many Asiatic cultures teach that Ki exists within the body as a source of power. In Reiki it is taught that this Ki flows through the body and chakras similar to our physical vascular system. Other traditions sometimes call this the aura.

Reiki practitioners act as channels for this universal life energy providing a bridge from the source of light and truth to the client/patient. This is most often done by the laying on of hands but can also be done long distance. While all living things have the potential to use Reiki it is easier once one has received attunements. Attunements are sometimes called placements or ignitions depending on the reiki tradition. These serve to tune a person into the energy signal like a radio tuner with music. The radio waves are passing around and through us all the time but without a proper receiver we cannot perceive them. By becoming attuned to the energy we can better perceive and channel the Reiki deliberately. 

Reiki is primarily used as a healing and cleansing technique. As we go through life we all experience trauma, physical and mental, that requires attention to heal properly. Trauma can cause blockages within our bodies and spirits that affect our physical health. Reiki can be applied to remove blockages and sooth the remaining irritation. 

It is important to note that Reiki can never cause harm. Because it comes from the source of truth and light it has its own awareness and intelligence. Because this intelligence knows the truth of the situation it is not necessary for the practitioner to be heavy handed in expending their own energy. The source is limitless and knows exactly how to help the recipient. 

Another thing to keep in mind is that Reiki does not replace the need for medical or psychological care. They work best hand in hand. As Reiki is gaining more acceptance in the United States hundreds of hospitals have begun offering Reiki as part of their ongoing care. For more information regarding the scientific study of Reiki I suggest checking out The Center for Reiki Research.