The word Reiki is Japanese, where "Rei" means "universal" and "Ki" means "life energy" (the same as the Chinese "Chi" or the Indian "Prana"). Reiki is the vital life energy which flows through all living things and which can be activated for the purpose of healing, working on all levels – spiritual, physical, mental and emotional.

Reiki has its roots in the ancient Buddhist teachings and it is believed to have spread through Tibet, China and India thousands of years ago. Reiki is an ancient form of healing that was rediscovered in the late 19th Century by Dr. Mikao Usui - a Japanese Christian minister and theology teacher.  Reiki is not a religion or a faith system - all that is required is the will to heal and to be whole

What does a treatment involve?

The Reiki healer acts as a channel for this life energy which the recipient of a Reiki treatment draws via the healer, activating the body’s natural ability to heal. Reiki works wherever it is most needed within the body, mind and spirit, working to create a state of balance by releasing blocked energy.  A treatment session lasts about 1 hour but specific areas can be treated within 1/2 hour.  Reiki is usually given with the recipient lying down, fully clothed and covered with a blanket on a massage table, a bed or even the floor. The therapist gently places his/her hands in various positions over the body enabling the recipient to draw the energy where it is needed. Each position is held for about five minutes. There is no pressure applied, making it an ideal treatment for the very young, the elderly, and those unable to receive therapies requiring pressure (for example, body massage).

What is it like during a treatment?

Receiving a Reiki treatment is a very simple, non-intrusive and powerful process. During treatment you may feel a pleasant sensation of warmth or gentle tingling in the area being touched. As the energy comes into balance, stress and tensions are released and there is a deep sense of relaxation and a feeling of well-being. Many people even fall asleep during this relaxing treatment!

How will it help?

A Reiki treatment is unique to each individual and the results are determined by the needs of the person being treated. Generally the most common results are increased energy, decreased stress, emotional release, cleansing and an increase in awareness and creativity.

Wherever there is a will to get well, Reiki is helpful in treating many health issues. It is a natural and holistic method of hands-on healing.