Many people are familiar with hands-on healing techniques such as massage, but one of the less tangible – but equally powerful – therapeutic modalities that has become more and more popular in recent years is that of energy healing. We are particularly focusing on Reiki in this blog because it is something that can provide a gentle, yet extremely nourishing and relaxing effect on the receiver. 

So what is Reiki?

Reiki is a gentle, safe and non intrusive healing technique that comes from Japan. It channels spiritually guided life force energy (Ki) which some have described as ‘like acupuncture without needles’.  

There are various different styles of Reiki, but the most common, and the one we are sharing about in this article is Usui Reiki which was founded by Mikao Usui in the 1900s and brought to the Western world in the 1930s.  

The word Reiki consists of two parts…

Rei – is translated as ‘sacred’ or spirit’ – which relates to the knowledge and wisdom of the universe. Ki is life force energy that is present in everything around us and flows through living beings. 

Reiki is energy – and energy is all there is – it simply vibrates at different levels. Good health is achieved when energy is balanced and in harmony within the body. Reiki supports this harmony by working on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health within the receiver. 

If energy becomes blocked or stagnant it can lead to ill health and a lack of vitality, Reiki can be seen as a way to help support healthy flow of energy, clear away blocks, and also act almost as an energetic top up to purify and infuse the body with a more vibrant sense of life force energy. 

Rather than seeing Reiki as coming from the practitioner, it is important to understand that they are serving as a channel for the energy to flow and it has a pure loving energy that is always infused with the intention to serve in a way that is of the highest good for the receiver. 

Reiki can be given with hands on, or hands off. It can also be given from a distance without being in close proximity with a person. 

Reiki uses a series of symbols to connect to a higher consciousness – which are often likened to as keys that open doors to a higher awareness. These add power and focus to a Reiki treatment.

Reiki is usually offered in a calm, relaxed environment and can be received sitting or lying down. However it can be accessed anywhere so the location is not important. 

Some of the benefits people report having had Reiki are relaxation and stress relief, improved sleep and mood, eased pain and discomfort and a general boosted quality of life. It is now also used within the NHS in certain areas of the UK, as a form of holistic support of conventional medicine when treating some cancers and other diseases. 

When receiving a Reiki treatment it is not unusual to feel heat, cold, movement within the body, tingles, emotions may surface, you may cough, yawn or sigh – all is the body connecting to the energy healing. You might see visualisations or have thoughts or memories arise, or you may just simply feel deeply relaxed and rested. 

Reiki is a gentle and nurturing healing offering, and at the core of this beautiful gift is the five Reiki Principles which are a set of guiding words that help to anchor us into the pure Reiki energy. 

The Five Reiki Principles

Just for today do not anger

Just for today do not worry

Honour your parents teachers and elders

Earn your living honestly 

Show gratitude to every living thing

We hope that this blog sparks your curiosity and encourages you to find out more about the power of energy healing and Reiki specifically.  If you would like to experience a Reiki treatment with Elizabeth herself, she works from her spa in Tonbridge, Kent.