Reiki is a form of energy healing developed by Dr. Mikao Usui in the early 20th century. Originated in Japan, it has spread across the world and is becoming more popular in western society. In reiki, practitioners “lay hands” on people to positively monitor the unseen “universal life force energy.” This energy is essential for life. If it is low, we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being contented and healthy.
What Happens in a Reiki Session?
During a reiki session, the practitioner places their hands lightly on or over the areas that need healing. Then the practitioner transfers energy from the universe to the healing area through their hands. During this time, the practitioner’s hands may be warm and tingling, and the energy transfer could last for several minutes. When the practitioner feels that the heat, or energy, in their hands has cooled, they will move their hands to the next area or conclude the session.
Health Benefits of Reiki
Reduce Pain
Studies have shown that reiki could significantly alleviate pain for cancer patients and women after cesarean delivery. Reiki was also effective in relieving lower back pain caused by herniated disks.
Reduce Anxiety and Depression
Many people reported they have lower anxiety or depression levels after visiting a reiki practitioner. In a small study, researchers had tested the effects of reiki on the elderly who claimed they feel relaxed and more hopeful after a reiki treatment.
Promote General Feeling of Well-being
The positive benefits of reiki enhance your overall well-being. Reiki can give you a sense of calmness, inner peace, and relaxation. It may also improve your sleep quality and self-confidence and make you feel well in general.
How to Practice Reiki
If you want to use reiki, you need to get trained by a reiki master first. The training does not require intelligence or spirituality. All you need to do is let the master “attune” you to the unlimited supply of reiki. The attunement will take several hours, and then you will be able to use reiki to help people and yourself. There are three levels of reiki, and after completing the third level, you can become a reiki master.
When a reiki master is not available, you can also practice reiki on your own, though the process would be more difficult and slower.
Close your eyes and take a few rounds of deep breaths. Imagine the crown of your head opening and a stream of healing white light flowing from the top of your head, into your heart, and out through your arms and hands. As you feel the flow of energy, continue to breathe, and if you find your mind gets busy or starts to question whether this is working, come back to your breath. Imagine yourself as a vessel for healing. Then set an intention or prayer to receive healing of the highest good. With some practice, you should be able to use reiki with confidence.
Reiki is a useful energy healing technique that can improve the life quality of you and your loved ones. Though it cannot substitute traditional diagnosis and treatment, reiki can relieve symptoms and significantly speed up your natural body healing process. The best part is that it is simple enough for everyone to master. You should give it a try.
