What is Reiki?
Reiki is an energetic therapeutic practice that has its roots in Japan. The word “Reiki” is made up of two Japanese ideograms: “Rei”, which means “universal energy” or “spiritual essence”, and “Ki”, which refers to the “vital energy” that flows through all living beings. Reiki can therefore be understood as channeling this universal energy to promote balance, healing and well-being.
This technique was developed at the beginning of the 20th century by the Japanese Buddhist monk Mikao Usui. According to tradition, Usui went on a spiritual quest and rediscovered the principles of Reiki during a retreat in the sacred mountains of Mount Kurama. From then on, he shared his knowledge and taught the practice of Reiki so that others could benefit from this powerful healing energy.
Reiki is based on the belief that vital energy flows through our bodies, and when this flow is interrupted or unbalanced, we can experience physical, emotional and spiritual illnesses. The Reiki therapist acts as a channel for this energy, directing it to where it is most needed in the recipient. Reiki treatment is carried out by laying gentle hands on specific points on the body, stimulating and restoring the energy flow.
Reiki principles
The principles of Reiki, also known as the Five Principles of Reiki, are a set of guidelines that aim to promote balance and harmony in our lives. They are recited by practitioners as a way of cultivating a positive mindset and promoting inner healing. The principles of Reiki are:
- Just for today, don’t get angry: the first principle reminds us of the importance of staying calm and not giving in to anger or irritation.
- Just for today, don’t worry: the second principle invites us to trust in the natural flow of life and not to worry about things that are beyond our control.
- Just for today, be grateful: the third principle teaches us to cultivate gratitude, recognizing the blessings and lessons we receive every day.
- Just for today, be diligent in your work: the fourth principle encourages us to be dedicated and committed to our tasks, always striving to do our best.
- Just for today, be kind to all living beings: the fifth principle reminds us of the importance of treating others with love, compassion and respect.
Benefits of Reiki
Reiki is a holistic therapy that promotes balance and harmony on all levels of being – physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. In addition, Reiki can also bring a number of benefits, such as:
- Relieving stress and anxiety: Reiki helps to relax the body and mind, releasing tension and promoting a sense of calm and tranquillity.
- Strengthening the immune system: by balancing vital energy, Reiki strengthens the immune system, increasing the body’s ability to heal itself and protect itself against illness.
- Promoting physical healing: Reiki speeds up the healing process, reducing pain and promoting recovery after injuries or surgery.
- Stimulating personal and spiritual growth: Reiki can awaken consciousness and promote self-development, helping in the search for meaning and purpose in life.
- Improving sleep quality: through deep relaxation, Reiki can help improve sleep quality, providing a more revitalizing rest.
Reiki is a safe and non-invasive practice and can be complementary to any medical or therapeutic treatment. Many people report a feeling of well-being, inner peace and balance after a Reiki session. Try this energy therapy and discover the benefits that Reiki can bring to your life.
Reiki as a preventive health practice
Reiki is a complementary therapy that is gaining increasing recognition as a preventive health practice. Through the channeling of universal energy, Reiki promotes the strengthening of the immune system, the reduction of stress and anxiety, energetic balance and the promotion of emotional well-being.
Strengthening the immune system
The immune system plays a crucial role in defending the body against diseases and infections. Reiki works by stimulating the body’s vital energy, thus helping to strengthen the immune system. Through the application of hands to specific points, the flow of energy is balanced and harmonized, which contributes to the proper functioning of the immune system, preventing the onset of disease and strengthening the body’s ability to recover.
Reducing stress and anxiety
Stress and anxiety are common problems nowadays and can have a significant impact on physical and emotional health. Reiki is a practice that promotes deep relaxation and stress reduction. During a Reiki session, energy is channeled to the patient, providing a sense of calm and tranquility. This state of deep relaxation helps to reduce stress and anxiety levels, improving general well-being and contributing to mental health.
Energy balance
Reiki works with the vital energy that permeates our entire body. When this energy is unbalanced or blocked, various health problems can arise. The practice of Reiki helps to restore energy balance by removing blockages and stimulating the free flow of vital energy. This energy balance promotes harmony between body, mind and spirit, helping to prevent illness and strengthen the body.
Promoting emotional well-being
Reiki also has a positive effect on emotional well-being. During a Reiki session, the channeled energy helps to release negative emotions and promote emotional balance. Often, emotions such as stress, anger and fear accumulate in the body, causing tension and imbalances. Reiki helps to release these emotions, providing a sense of relief, peace and serenity. By promoting emotional well-being, Reiki contributes to the prevention of health problems related to stress and negative emotions.
How does a Reiki session work?
A Reiki session is a special moment of connection, balance and healing. During the session, the Reiki therapist uses universal energy to promote the patient’s physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. It is a gentle, non-invasive process that can bring many health benefits.
Preparing the environment
The Reiki session usually takes place in a quiet and comfortable environment, where the patient feels safe and relaxed. The therapist creates a welcoming atmosphere, with soft music, adequate lighting and a pleasant temperature. These elements help to create a space conducive to healing and energy balance.
Positioning the patient
Before the session begins, the patient is invited to lie down on a stretcher or a mat on the floor, wearing comfortable clothes. The Reiki therapist can provide cushions or pillows to ensure maximum comfort during the session. The aim is for the patient to be in a relaxed position, allowing the Reiki energy to flow freely through the body.
Laying on of hands
The laying on of hands is a fundamental technique in Reiki. The therapist places their hands gently on the patient’s body, on specific areas known as chakras. These energy points are located on different parts of the body, such as the head, chest, abdomen, back and feet. The therapist can remain in each position for a few minutes, allowing the Reiki energy to flow and act on that specific point.
The laying on of hands does not involve any kind of pressure or physical manipulation. The therapist simply keeps their hands in gentle contact with the patient’s body, allowing the Reiki energy to be transmitted. This energy is intelligent and follows the body’s natural healing path, balancing the energy centers and stimulating the self-healing process.
Sensations during the session
During a Reiki session, the patient may experience different sensations. Some report feeling warmth, tingling, deep relaxation or a sense of peace and tranquillity. These sensations vary from person to person and can change throughout the session.
It is important to note that Reiki is a complementary therapy and does not replace conventional medical treatment. However, many people report that Reiki can complement other treatments, promoting a feeling of general well-being and speeding up the healing process.
Reiki and Traditional Medicine
Reiki is a complementary therapy that has been increasingly integrated into traditional medical treatments. Its practice seeks to stimulate balance and harmony in the body, mind and spirit, contributing to the general well-being of the individual. Although it is not considered a substitute for conventional medicine, Reiki can be used in conjunction with medical treatments, providing additional benefits to patients.
One of the main aspects of Reiki’s complementarity is its potential to promote deep relaxation and relieve stress. During a Reiki session, the patient is invited to lie comfortably on a stretcher while the therapist lays hands on strategic points on the body. This gentle, energetic touch promotes a feeling of peace and tranquillity, helping the patient to release physical and emotional tensions. This feeling of relaxation can be especially beneficial for patients undergoing intensive medical treatments, such as chemotherapy or surgery.
The integration of Reiki with traditional medical treatments is encouraged by many health professionals, as they recognize the complementary benefits of this therapy. As well as providing relaxation, Reiki can also help relieve pain, reduce the side effects of medication, speed up the healing process, strengthen the immune system and improve sleep quality. These benefits can contribute to a faster and more effective recovery, as well as promoting a general sense of well-being in the patient.
There are several reports of patients who have experienced significant benefits from integrating Reiki into their medical treatments. Many report an improvement in their quality of life, reduced stress and anxiety, increased energy and vitality, as well as greater emotional balance. It’s important to note that results can vary from person to person and that Reiki is not a substitute for medical care. However, its practice can become a valuable complement in the process of healing and well-being.
