What Is Reiki?
Reiki is a form of alternative therapy commonly referred to as energy healing. It originated in Japan in the early 20th century. The term Reiki comes from the Japanese words “Rei,” meaning universal, and “Ki,” meaning life energy. This practice aims to promote healing by channeling energy through the hands of a practitioner to the recipient.
How does Reiki work?
Reiki works on the principle that the practitioner can channel energy into the recipient to activate the natural healing processes of the body. The practitioner places their hands lightly on or just above the recipient’s body in specific positions to guide the energy flow. This energy helps to clear blockages and balance the body’s energy fields, promoting physical, emotional, and mental healing.
Principles of Reiki
Reiki is guided by five foundational principles that promote a healthy and balanced life. These principles were developed by Mikao Usui, the founder of Reiki, and they serve as a guide for daily living:
- Just for today, do not anger: Cultivate a sense of calm and let go of anger. Anger can be harmful to both yourself and others, so it’s important to practice patience and understanding.
- Just for today, do not worry: Release worry and stress to focus on the present moment. Worrying about the past or future can prevent you from enjoying life and being productive.
- Be humble: Approach life with humility and gratitude. Recognizing the value in others and yourself can foster a sense of peace and fulfilment.
- Be honest in your work: Put forth your best effort in all that you do. Honesty and integrity in your actions can lead to personal satisfaction and respect from others.
- Be compassionate to yourself and others: Show kindness and compassion towards yourself and those around you. Compassion is a powerful tool for healing and building strong, positive relationships.
By embracing these principles, you can enhance the benefits of your Reiki practice and promote a holistic approach to well-being.
Understanding Distance Reiki – Science, Energy & Experience
It’s completely natural to feel sceptical about something that isn’t widely understood or scientifically measured in conventional ways. However, many principles of Reiki align with established concepts in physics, such as energy transmission and the impact of intention on the body and mind. Research into biofields, electromagnetic energy, and quantum mechanics continues to explore how energy healing may work beyond traditional medical frameworks.
At its core, Reiki is a practice that promotes relaxation, balance, and emotional well-being. Regardless of belief, many clients report feeling deep calm, renewed energy, or even physical sensations during a session. You don’t need to “believe” in Reiki for it to be effective—just as meditation or mindfulness can create real, measurable changes in the nervous system, Reiki can support healing simply by allowing the body to shift into a more restful state.
The best way to understand Reiki is to experience it firsthand. Keep an open mind, allow yourself the space to notice how you feel before and after, and trust in your own observations.
Reiki: A Practical Approach to Energy Healing
If you’ve ever instinctively placed a hand on a sore area or felt a sense of peace in nature, you’ve already experienced the power of energy in everyday life. Reiki works in a similar way—using focused intention and energy transmission to promote relaxation and balance.
For those who are skeptical, know that Reiki doesn’t require belief to have an effect. Scientific studies continue to explore how biofield therapies, meditation, and relaxation techniques support well-being, often showing measurable shifts in stress levels and emotional balance. While we may not fully understand the mechanics of energy healing, many people find comfort, calm, and renewal through Reiki sessions—whether in-person or from a distance.
The best way to know if Reiki works for you? Simply try it. Keep an open mind, pay attention to how you feel before and after, and trust in your own experience. Healing is a personal journey, and Reiki is here to support that process in a gentle, accessible way.