Reiki is based on the principles of Universal Life Energy or Chi, (Usui) Reiki is believed to date back to early Tibetan healing practices.  It was re-discovered in the late 1800s by Dr. Mikao Usui, a Japanese philosopher and Christian seminary educator, and was brought to the United States in the mid 1900s by Mrs Hawayo Takata.

Reiki incorporates visualization and placement of hands in specific positions, either directly on or just above the body, to align chakras (energy centers within the body) and bring healing energy to body tissue, organs and glands. Pursued with the client fully clothed, this passive contact, applied by a practitioner trained to access and serve as a channel for the life energy, is sometimes experienced as a warmth or tingling sensation. During a full session, the hands remain in position for 3-5 minutes alternately covering 10-1 2 positions over the entire body. However, when indicated (i.e., injury or specific discomfort such as headache, etc.) Reiki may be applied to only (a) specific area(s) and still be effective.

Reiki…

• brings the body into harmony by relieving physical and emotional blockages
• heals the cause and eliminates the effects of an imbalance
• helps minimize the sense of helplessness when facing disease or trauma
• can be used in conjunction with standard medical procedures and religious beliefs without conflict

There are three degrees of training in the initiation process of becoming a Reiki Master, referred to as attunement levels. During this training and attunement by a Reiki Master, the practitioners reach a point where they can access the universal energy flow through their hands to heal themselves and others. Once initiated into the first-degree level, anyone can heal.  It does not require special talent, nor can it be done wrongly. The more a person uses Reiki, the stronger it becomes.   By the end of the 2 day First Degree Reiki workshop students will be able to:

• Scan the body of the person receiving treatment and perceive areas of reduced vitality flow.
• Channel Reiki energy into yourself or others, and sense the energy as it flows through your hands.
• Appreciate how attitudes can create dis-ease in the mind and emotions, and how the physical body might be affected.

Note: A Reiki Practitioner or Reiki Master does not practice medicine, diagnose or prescribe medication unless they are also a licensed medical professional. If you have a health problem, you should always consult your physician before having a Reiki session.

Sources:
1) Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP) 2001 Touch Training Director
2) The Reiki Handbook by Larry Arnold & Sandy Nevius, PSI Press, Harrisburg, PA