1. What is Reiki?
Reiki, also known as Japanese Relaxation Therapy, has been taught in the West since the early 1970s. Given that all living organisms radiate "life force energy", the practice of Reiki involves the channeling of this energy (often referred to as "chi" or "qi") through the Reiki practitioner to the client. When channeled, this energy may result in creating a relaxation effect in the client's body which helps to balance and optimize the body's own restorative capabilities. Reiki employs a holistic approach where the entire body is treated, and compliments other forms of treatment. In fact, Reiki is being used successfully in a number of healthcare settings including hospital centers. Reiki is not associated with any specific religion or set of beliefs, and the person receiving a treatment need only be receptive in order to experience its many benefits.
2. How did Reiki originate?
Reiki was formulated in Japan during the early part of the 20th century by Dr. Mikao Usui. In his quest to research ancient healing practices, Dr. Usui studied Chinese and Ayurvedic (Indian) systems of medicine, Qigong and Yoga as well as manuscripts from various cultures. Through his study and experiences the Reiki modality was revealed, and Dr. Usui began to teach and initiate others to the Reiki method of healing. Today there are thousands of practitioners worldwide.
3. How does Reiki work, and what does a treatment feel like?
Clients should come to Reiki sessions in modest, yet comfortably loose clothing. A Reiki treatment session typically begins with the client lying comfortably on their back, with palms facing up and feet shoulder width apart. All jewelry and other metal objects on their person should be removed. It is perfectly acceptable and encouraged for the individual to pray for help, healing and/or inner peace according to their faith before the session begins. The Reiki practitioner then gently places their hands non-intrusively over designated areas of the body from the crown of the head to the feet. Each hand position is held for several minutes during which time healing energy will flow into the body helping to balance the client's own internal energy system. This process helps to release stress, reduce pain, and assists the body's natural ability to heal itself. The client remains on their back for most of the process while switching over onto the stomach for a portion of the treatment.
Typical sensations that are experienced during a Reiki treatment include warmth or heat, and pleasant tingling which may be felt in various parts of the body such as the hands and feet. Some people may also report seeing colors. Treatment sessions are usually deeply relaxing, and it is not unusual for clients to fall asleep. In general, Reiki can help boost energy levels, promotes a feeling of calmness, and can leave one feeling better able to cope with life's challenges.
4. Is there research that supports the idea of "life force energy"?
As early as 1930, Dr. Harold Burr of Yale University noted that imbalances can be detected in the human energy field before symptoms of disease become apparent. Although at that time the idea that these energy imbalances could, in fact, be detected and altered was not well accepted, today this is becoming more widely understood.
Dr. John Zimmerman of the University of Colorado Medical School, for example, has measured a difference in the vibrational frequency of energy emitted from the hands of trained versus non-trained practitioners (a range from 0.3Hz to 30Hz), which correlates with the varying vibrational frequencies of healthy organs and tissues in the body.
Although the exact mechanism by which Reiki and related bioenergy therapies is not yet completely understood, the positive feedback that clients routinely report following a Reiki session certainly is supportive of the essential foundation that underlies the practice -- namely, that the human body is structured in a manner such that when touch is offered with the intention of providing comfort, energy is automatically exchanged. When a Reiki practitioner is in a meditative and healing state of mind, this energy flow is even stronger.
5. What is the usual number of treatment sessions people have?
Clients typically report positive benefits from even a single Reiki session. However, the effects of treatments are cumulative, and the physical and emotional changes produced by Reiki are long-lasting. To experience the full benefit of Reiki treatment, practitioners usually recommend four to six sessions, which is usually sufficient to help clients with stress, tension, and anxiety. Physical problems, depending on their nature, can require longer treatment periods.
6. Is Reiki suitable for children?
Absolutely! It is the Center's policy, however, that anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
7. Where can I learn more about Reiki?
Further information about Reiki may be found at the following websites: http://www.reiki.org and http://www.reiki-evolution.co.uk
Additional information about the scientific basis underlying Reiki may be found in the text Energy Medicine: A Scientific Basis by Dr. James Oschman. You can also read the following reprint from the Reiki News Magazine, Vol. One, Issue Three, Winter 2002 entitled Science and Human Energy Field, also by Dr. Oschman.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Reiki 