What is Reiki
The word “Reiki” comes from the Japanese words “rei” (universal) and “ki” (life energy) and means “mysterious atmosphere, miraculous sign.” Reiki is a type of energy healing that targets the energy fields around the body. It is a hands-on energy healing practice that has been around for thousands of years – the current form having been developed by Japanese Buddhist Mikao Usui.
According to practitioners, energy can stagnate in the body where there has been physical injury or possibly emotional pain. In time, these energy blocks can cause illness. Energy medicine aims to help the flow of energy and remove blocks in a similar way to acupuncture or acupressure. Improving the flow of energy around the body, say, practitioners, can enable relaxation, reduce pain, speed healing, and reduce other symptoms of illness. According to practitioners, the healing effects are mediated by channeling the universal energy known as qi, pronounced “chi.” In India, this is known as “prana.” This is the same energy involved in tai chi exercise. It is the life force energy that some believe surrounds all of us.
This energy is said to permeate the body. Reiki experts point out that, while this energy is not measurable by modern scientific techniques, it can be felt by many who tune in to it. Studies have shown that Reiki may reduce anxiety and pain and suggest its usefulness to induce relaxation, improve fatigue and depressive symptoms, and strengthen overall wellbeing.