Reiki

Get the facts about this popular therapy.

Reiki is a type of complementary medicine. It has been around for nearly a hundred years and is a very popular form of healing.

All about Reiki

Reiki was discovered by a Japanese monk called Mikao Usui in 1922.
Reiki aims to unblock stagnant or negative energy in the body. It is based on the belief that universal energy (ki) flows through seven chakras in the body, and that it can become blocked. These blockages can cause mental or physical ill health.
The word reiki comes from two words; rei – universal and ki – life force.
During a reiki session, the practitioner transfers ki (universal life energy) through their hands into the body of the client they are working on.
Reiki is a holistic therapy. This means that it doesn’t view symptoms or diseases in isolation. It looks at the entire body and the flow of energy throughout it. So a person with digestive issues wouldn’t just have their digestive area treated.
Reiki is secular, which means that it is not connected to any religion.
Reiki is used to treat a wide variety of conditions, both mental and physical.
Reiki works to relieve stress and to aid relaxation.
Reiki is not just an alternative treatment; it is also based on a philosophy called the Five Reiki Precepts or Commandments. This says:
At least for today:
- Do not be angry.
- Do not worry.
- Be grateful.
- Work with diligence.
- Be kind to people.

How it works

It can be used in conjunction with other therapies, whether these other therapies are conventional or alternative.
You will be asked to lie down on a massage table and to relax.
Some practitioners may place their hand on various parts of your body, while other practitioners will place their hands above your body without touching you. Reiki practitioners use a specific set of hand positions.
You may feel a sensation of warmth in your body.
Most people will need at least three sessions to get the full benefits.
Many people feel very chilled out and relaxed after a session.

Benefits of reiki

It’s great for stress reduction and relaxation.
It can help to relieve pain.
It can energise you.
It compliments standard medical therapies.
It can act as a mental re-boot. Some people say that it clears their minds.
It is suitable for people of all ages, shapes and sizes.
It can be used preventively. Some healthy people have reiki treatments to help shore up their health and to ensure that they stay well.

Where to do it

You can take a Reiki class and practice Reiki on yourself.
You can get treated by a Reiki practitioner.
Some hospitals offer reiki treatments to patients who have had surgery, are undergoing chemo or are dealing with mental ill health.

Further Information

Reiki Federation of Ireland

Alternative therapies

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