WHAT IS REIKI?
Unveiling the Mysteries of Reiki: A Holistic Healing Practice
In a world where modern medicine often takes centre stage, there exists a realm of alternative therapies that focus on the holistic well-being of individuals. One such practice that has gained significant attention is Reiki. Pronounced as "ray-kee," this ancient Japanese healing technique has been shrouded in mystique and intrigue. In this blog post, we will explore the various aspects of Reiki, including its origins, principles, techniques, and benefits.
Reiki is a non-invasive, energy-based healing practice that aims to balance the body's energy fields and promote overall well-being. The word "Reiki" is derived from two Japanese words: "rei," meaning Universal, and "ki," meaning life force energy. Essentially, Reiki is the channelling Universal life force energy through the practitioner's hands to the client, helping to restore balance and harmony on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels. Below, we will fill you in with a comprehensive guide to the essence of Reiki.
CONTENTS PAGE
ORIGINS OF REIKI
Reiki was developed in the early 20th century by a Japanese Buddhist monk named Mikao Usui.
In a quest for deeper understanding and healing abilities, Usui embarked on a 21-day period of fasting and meditation atop Mount Kurama. This intense period of self-discovery and enlightenment culminated in a profound spiritual experience where Usui received not only the healing energy of Reiki but also the knowledge and wisdom to harness its power.
Motivated by a desire to share this remarkable gift with others, Usui dedicated his life to teaching and healing. He meticulously formulated the foundational principles and techniques of Reiki, creating a structured system that would enable practitioners to access and channel Universal life force energy. This system not only became a means of healing but also a pathway to spiritual growth and inner peace.
Usui's legacy endures through the practice of Reiki, which continues to touch the lives of countless individuals seeking physical, emotional, and spiritual balance and healing. His journey serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of human spirituality and compassion.
PRINCIPLES OF REIKI
At the heart of Reiki are five principles, or precepts, that guide practitioners and clients alike toward a life of balance and harmony. These principles are:
“Just for today, I will not be angry.”
“Just for today, I will not worry.”
“Just for today, I will be grateful.”
“Just for today, I will do my work honestly.
“Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing.”
These principles serve as a moral compass and promote a positive mindset, reinforcing the idea that emotional and mental well-being are integral to physical health.
REIKI & ENERGY THERAPY RESEARCH
Delving into the underlying mechanisms of Reiki and energy healing we aim to explain how the transfer of healing energy through a practitioner's hands can positively impact a recipient's physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
While the scientific community still struggles with researching evidence of these energetic practices, some research suggests that Reiki and energy healing will help reduce stress, alleviate pain, improve relaxation, and enhance overall quality of life.
These studies often involve assessing changes in bioelectromagnetic fields, physiological responses, and subjective reports from individuals who have undergone energy healing sessions. Further study is needed, however current research and anecdotal evidence of Reiki and energy healing practices indicate importance of exploring holistic approaches to health and well-being.
REIKI TECHNIQUES
Reiki sessions typically involve the client lying down fully clothed while the practitioner lightly places their hands on or near the client's body. The practitioner then channels Reiki energy, which flows through their hands and into the client. The practitioner may choose to use touch on the client's physical body, or to 'hover' or 'beam' the Reiki to the client using the Universal energy method. There are various techniques and hand positions used in Reiki, including:
Gassho meditation:
Gassho means two hands coming together, which is used in various other spiritual and meditative traditions. This practice is used to centre the practitioner's energy before a session. Often the practitioner will use Gassho whilst saying the Reiki Principles.
Byosen Reikan Ho:
A technique where the practitioner scans the client's body to detect areas of energy imbalance. As the practitioner moves their hands slowly over the client's body, they pay close attention to any sensations or changes in the energy field. These sensations may manifest as temperature fluctuations, tingling, pressure, or emotional impressions. The practitioner uses their intuitive senses to detect variations in the client's energy.
Kenyoku Ho:
Kenyoku Ho is a technique generally used in Usui Reiki to clear and balance energy at the end of a Reiki session. It is also known as "dry bathing" or "energy cleansing." This practice is intended to remove any residual energy or blockages that may have accumulated during a Reiki session, allowing the Reiki practitioner to work on a fresh energy field. Some practitioners also like to use this technique to clear energy during a session if they feel it is necessary. It is important to practice Kenyoku Ho with intention cleansing and release.
CHAKRA BALANCING
Chakra balancing in Reiki involves clearing and harmonising the body's energy centres, or chakras, to promote holistic well-being. Reiki practitioners use various hand positions and techniques to channel healing energy into each chakra, starting from the base (Root) and moving upwards to the crown. In our practice at Serene Valley Holistic Therapies, we generally work on 9 chakras going from the Earth Star Chakra to the Soul Star Chakra. These two chakras sit outside of the physical body.
This process of cleansing and charging the chakras helps remove energy blockages, release emotional and physical tension, and restore balance. Balanced chakras enhance physical health, emotional stability, mental clarity, and spiritual connection. Chakra balancing is a vital aspect of Reiki, promoting energy harmony and supporting the body's innate healing abilities, leading to a more vibrant and balanced state of being.
For more in-depth information regarding the chakra system and how to keep each chakra in balance, check out our blog at Reiki Chakra Series - Get to Know your 13 Chakras HERE
Chakra Crystal Healing in Combination with Reiki Energy
At Serene Valley Holistic Therapies, we do crystal healing therapy in combination with Reiki healing energy during our sessions. Crystal healing therapy is a holistic practice which will cleanse, charge, and balance the chakras and energy centres within the body.
Specific crystals are chosen based on their vibrational properties and associated chakra alignment. To cleanse, the energy centres, we use clear quartz or lemurian seed crystal wands to dispel and cleanse out negative energies. When balancing the chakras, we position intuitively selected crystals which correspond to each chakra over the body to promote harmonious energy flow. To book a session click on the image above or HERE.
Serene Valley Holistic Therapies offers Chakra meditations on our YouTube channel. We offer a meditation for the 7 main chakras - Crown | Third Eye | Throat | Heart | Solar Plexus | Sacral | Root.
To select from a 10 minute or 20 minute meditation, click the links below.
REIKI TRANSCENDS TIME & SPACE
Reiki is a Universal healing energy that transcends time and space, making it a unique and profound aspect of this practice. While this concept may seem abstract, it is rooted in the knowledge that energy is not confined by the limitations of time or physical distance. Here's how we work at in addressing past traumas and healing across time and space;
Energy as a Non-Linear Force
As a Reiki Master practitioner, I work within the understanding that Reiki energy is a non-linear force. This means that it is not bound by the constraints of past, present, or future. In this view, energy exists beyond the boundaries of time and space, and it can be directed to any point in the continuum of one's life.
Healing Trauma at Its Source
Traumatic experiences often leave energetic imprints or blockages within an individual's energy field. These imprints can manifest as physical or emotional symptoms created and stored in the mind, body or spirit many years or even lifetimes ago. Reiki energy has capacity to penetrate these energy imprints, accessing the root causes of trauma and gently clearing or healing them. This perspective aligns with both Eastern philosophies and quantum physics theories that teach us that everything is interconnected, and that energy is a pervasive force that transcends our conventional understanding of time and space.
From a Reiki perspective, this non-linear energy can be directed to any point in a person's life, including past lives. My practice works within the realm of past lives and the impact they can have on my client's current life.
Intention and Visualisation
In our practice, we use intention and visualisation as powerful tools. By setting this intention, we send healing energy back in time or across distances to address specific traumatic events or situations. By visualising the energy flowing to the past, working with spirit guides and angels, we aim to bring balance and healing to those situations.
Emotional Release
During Reiki sessions, clients may experience emotional release as the healing energy works through past traumas. This can involve memories resurfacing, emotions being processed, and deep inner work as old wounds are addressed. It's important to note that this release is a natural part of the healing process.
As a Master Reiki Practitioner and Master Holistic Counsellor, I have worked with clients undergoing emotional release during our Reiki sessions. With the client's consent, Reiki healing energy delves into past traumas, which can cause memories to resurface, emotions to be processed, and deep inner work to heal old wounds. My training equips me to navigate these situations with professionalism and compassion. When clients experience such releases, I create a safe and supportive environment where they can explore these feelings and memories without judgment. I advise you to seek out a practitioner who has the capability and skills to help you to work through any of these situations which may arise.
Personal Transformation
As past traumas are healed or energetically resolved, clients often report profound personal transformation. They may experience increased resilience, a lighter emotional burden, and a greater sense of peace and empowerment.
When past traumas are effectively addressed and energetically resolved through Reiki sessions and holistic counselling, clients often embark on a remarkable journey of personal transformation. This transformation extends far beyond the mere alleviation of their emotional wounds; it encompasses a profound shift in their entire being.
One of the most common and powerful transformations reported by clients is a significant increase in resilience. As they release the energy blockages tied to their traumas, they find themselves better equipped to navigate life's challenges. They develop an inner strength and a newfound ability to bounce back from adversity, making them more resilient in the face of stress and setbacks.
Non-Interference with Free Will
Importantly, Reiki respects the clients free will and autonomy. It does not impose healing or force individuals to confront traumatic events if they are not ready. Reiki is a gentle and non-invasive practice that allows the client to engage with the healing process at their own pace. During our practice, I work with angels, spirits and guides along with your higher self to determine the level of concerns we will address at each appointment.
While the concept of Reiki healing across time and space may not align with conventional scientific understanding, it has been embraced and acknowledge by many as a powerful aspect of this holistic practice. Clients have reported significant relief from past traumas, a deepening of self-awareness, and a renewed sense of well-being, all of which contribute to the enduring popularity of Reiki as a complementary healing modality.
BENEFITS OF REIKI
Rooted in the concept of channelling Universal life force energy, Reiki aims to create harmony and balance in the Body, Mind, and Spirit. The following sections will delve into the diverse range of benefits that Reiki offers, showcasing its holistic approach to healing and well-being. From stress reduction and pain relief to emotional resilience and enhanced spiritual connection, Reiki holds the promise of transforming lives by tapping into the profound healing power of energy.
Let's explore these benefits in more detail.
Stress Reduction:
Reiki, with its gentle energy flow, is a powerful energy therapy tool used for stress reduction. During a Reiki session, clients enter a deep state of relaxation as the practitioner channels the healing energy. This relaxation response reduces stress and anxiety, encouraging mental clarity and emotional stability. The soothing, harmonising effect of Reiki on the nervous system allows individuals to release tension, providing a respite from the demands of daily life.
Reduction in Anxiety, Depression & Other Mental Health Concerns:
Reiki's holistic approach extends to mental well-being, and emerging evidence highlights its potential to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, as well as other various mental health concerns. By facilitating the clearing of energy blockages and promoting emotional and mental balance, Reiki nurtures a profound sense of inner peace, emotional resilience, and heightened self-awareness.
Anxiety and depression, often intertwined with energy imbalances, are eased as Reiki assists in recalibrating the body's subtle energy systems. This ancient healing practice serves as a complementary therapeutic tool with other mental health modalities by addressing the mind's intricate interplay with the body's energy.
Pain Relief:
Our clients report remarkable reductions in physical pain and improved overall comfort. Through the application of Reiki energy, muscle tension dissipates, and the body's innate healing mechanisms are stimulated. This process can lead to notable relief from various forms of discomfort, contributing to a higher quality of life.
Enhanced Emotional Well-being:
Reiki is renowned for its capacity to address emotional well-being. By channelling Universal life force energy, Reiki may dissolve emotional blockages and promote a profound sense of calm and balance. Clients often experience emotional resilience, increased self-awareness, and a greater capacity to navigate life's challenges with equanimity.
Improved Sleep:
Reiki's benefits extend to the realm of sleep. Regular Reiki sessions have been associated with improved sleep patterns. The deep relaxation induced by Reiki helps individuals achieve a more restorative and restful sleep, making it a valuable tool for those dealing with sleep disturbances or insomnia.
Boosted Immunity:
Reiki's influence on energy balance extends to the immune system. By enhancing the flow of life force energy, Reiki may strengthen the body's natural defence mechanisms. This bolstering of the immune system can lead to a reduced susceptibility to illness and a heightened state of overall well-being, making Reiki an appealing complement to conventional healthcare practices.
Reiki, with its origins in ancient Japanese spirituality and healing, continues to captivate individuals seeking holistic well-being. Its principles, techniques, and potential benefits make it a valuable addition to the spectrum of alternative healing practices. While Reiki may not be a replacement for conventional medicine, it can complement it by addressing the holistic needs of individuals, fostering emotional and spiritual balance alongside physical health.
If you're intrigued by the idea of Reiki, consider booking a session with us to experience the benefits for yourself HERE. We also offer DISTANCE sessions HERE. All prices are in Australian dollars ($AUD).
Unlike any remarkable journey towards healing and transformation, the power of Reiki has consistently shown its incredible potential to bring about profound and positively life-changing results for individuals, we invite you to discover the profound healing and transformation through the power of Reiki.
Love & Light,
