Reiki (pronounced Ray-Key) means "Divine Light" (rei) & "Universal Life Force Energy" (ki) in Japanese. In other cultures, this life force energy is called Chi (China), Mana (Hawaii), or Prana (India), to name a few. A trained Reiki Practitioner serves as a channel by directing this healing energy to areas of focus.
This healing modality was founded by Mikao Usui in 1920 while doing an extended fast and meditation on Mt. Kurama. On day 21 he had a sudden spiritual awakening and received instruction on this healing method.
By the time of Usui Sensei's death in 1926 he had instructed over 2000 students in Reiki healing. To learn further about Mikao Usui and Reiki I recommend Frank Arjava Petter's website www.reikidharma.com.
When we have optimal health, we are vibrant and full of life force energy and have little difficulty recovering from minor illnesses or imbalances in our energy field. However, prolonged illness, stress or energetic imbalances can deplete or obstruct the flow of Life Force Energy. Reiki sessions can help restore and promote balance in the client.
Depending on the level of imbalance, stress or time the symptoms have persisted, a series of sessions may be needed over time to successfully restore balance.
Reiki treatments will often initiate a deep cleansing effect on the person being treated. Due to this, some people may experience their symptoms or discomfort intensifying for a few hours to a few days following a session. Therefore, it is important to drink lots of water and allow the body to rest while it integrates the healing energies.
Since Reiki is also multidimensional in nature and works outside of our physical reality, it can be a catalyst in our own spiritual evolution regardless of faith or religious beliefs.