photo from Emma Freeman Photography Authored by Erica Wallace Moore
Reiki is the practice of gentle, light touch therapy that ignites the flow of energy of the healing power of the universe into the body and consciousness of the person receiving Reiki. The Reiki practitioner is the bridge on which the energy passes to the receiver through the practitioner’s hands. It is meant to clear internal energy systems and allow the possibility for a person to heal from within.
While Reiki was founded by Dr. Mikao Usui in Japan in the early twentieth century, people from all over the world benefit from it.
“Reiki” is the combination of two words. “Rei” can symbolically mean God, Source, Light, Spirit, however, one does not have to believe in any of these things. “Ki” (also spelled “chi” or “qi”) is the energy that makes all living things alive. It flows through every living thing including plants, animals, and humans. A person can have high energy or low energy, and we receive energy from food, sunshine, sleep, prayer, meditation, exercise, yoga, etc.
Essentially, we are all made up of energy and it flows through every aspect of ourselves—our cells, thoughts, and emotions. We are also connected to all that is, including our family, neighborhood, city, state, country, continent, planet, solar system, galaxy and the entire universe. Reiki is the energy connection to all that is in the universe flowing from practitioner to the receiver.
What to Expect:
During a Reiki session the practitioner lightly places her hands on approximately twelve positions of the body depending on the intention desired for the session. These body positions include: the top of the head, eyes, throat, shoulders, heart space, both sides and middle of the abdomen, hips, knees, and feet. On occasion, the back can also be taken into consideration.
It is normal for the receiver to feel deeply relaxed as it restores the body’s natural energy balance. You may feel heat on the touched areas of the body, tingling, itching, and/or inner shifts. Sometimes the receiver won’t be aware of feeling anything yet the Reiki is still flowing. It’s important to know that the flow of Reiki acts where it is needed most.
Because Reiki is essentially the flow of the universe’s energy, it is not assigned to any religion, culture, or belief system. The energy of the universe simply exists.
Reiki is a complementary therapy and does not replace mainstream medical treatment or medication.
