Reiki
WHAT IS REIKI?
Reiki is an effective 'hands on' healing method, which aims to restore health by replenishing and re-balancing the recipient's vital energy or 'Ki'. Rediscovered by Dr.Mikao Usui, at the end of the 19th century, Reiki has been gaining popularity throughout the world thanks to its simplicity of use, versatility of application and proven benefits.
'Sacred Circles' by Barry Stevens
In Reiki, the quality and distribution of 'Ki' throughout the client's body is responsible for his or her state of health. We experience a disruption in the circulation of Ki as pain or as an ailment at physical and/or psychological level (i.e. backache, asthma, stress or depression). By laying hands on different areas of the client's body, the practitioner passes on the Reiki energy. This allows the client to release tension in the area of distress whilst strengthening and harmonizing their vital energy.
Translated from the Japanese, 'Rei' means 'universal' and 'ki' means 'vital energy'. Bringing together these two words, Reiki means: The Universal Vital Energy which animates all living things.
WHAT CAN REIKI DO FOR YOU?
Reiki is a non-invasive, holistic method of healing, which works to relieve pain and a wide variety of conditions, whilst addressing the underlying origin of the problem. It has a positive effect on minor ailments like headache, cold, stomach-ache, multiple sclerosis and cancer.
Reiki works well in conjunction with other complementary or allopathic methods, helping to reduce any possible negative side-effects and to speed up the process of recovery. However, it is not intended as a substitute for prescribed medical treatment.
Reiki has proven to be beneficial during times of major transition, such as in pregnancy, menopause and in adapting to old age. It also has a stabilising effect on psychological conditions, as it works to bring balance to the client's subtle energy centres (chakras).
Reiki healing energy flows where the client needs it most. The practitioner cannot direct the flow with his/her own mind. It is not necessary to believe in any particular faith, or even in Reiki, for it to work, yet it can act as a medium for self-development and spiritual growth. It is suitable for all ages and has also been successfully used with animals and plants.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
A Reiki session lasts between 60 and 75 minutes, and it takes place with the client fully dressed. It is best to wear loose-fitting clothes. After an initial talk, the client is asked to lie on a comfortable mattress on the floor or on a massage table. The practitioner places the hands in specific positions on or around the client's body. Each position is held for a few minutes and alternative positions are often used to accommodate the client's needs. Reiki can also be received with the client sitting or standing. A short rest and feedback follows the hands-on healing, at which time suggestions may be worked out together for exercises or activities which support the client's recovery.
How people respond to Reiki is highly individual. Some feel changes in body temperature; others experience tingling sensations, see images or may fall asleep. Deep feelings of relaxation, stillness and completeness are normally experienced by most clients.
HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
The effects of a Reiki session may continue for up to 3 days. It is common practice, whenever possible, to start with three sessions on consecutive days. This initially stimulates the client's body to eliminate toxins and prepare it for deeper work. Afterwards, depending on the condition and the individual response, the client can decide to come weekly or fortnightly until they are better. There is no set pattern, and it is discussed between client and practitioner at the time.
