Discovered in Japan, Reiki is a gentle and non-invasive ancient natural healing therapy which does not cause pain or harm. Current Reiki practice can be traced to the spiritual teachings of Mikao Usui who rediscovered this ancient art in of healing in Japan in the early 20th century. Reiki is derived from two Japanese words REI, or universal transcendental spirit, and ki, life energy also known as prana. Our entire universe “REI” is made up of energy and at a very basic level we are energy. The human life force energy or “KI” is an unseen energy stream that pours into the human energy field nourishing every part of the mind, body and soul. When this energy is abundant and flowing freely we experience health, vitality and a sense of well-being. When the energy stream is blocked or depleted we are susceptible to stress, depression, illness and dis-ease. Simple but profound, Reiki, is the input of pure energy, enabling you to bring your energy field into alignment; creating balance and harmony and subsequent improved health, coupled with a sense of physical well being.

A Reiki energy healing session begins at the head and ends at the feet, this is most relaxing. The therapist’s hands are gently placed in various positions on or slightly above the body without pressure being applied, palms and fingertips into the receiver’s energy field. The therapist does not give of their own energy they simply channel universal energy from the source. The outcome of each treatment is determined by the needs and no two people will experience Reiki the same way. Some of the frequent results include: Increased creativity energy and awareness. Emotions are more balanced and appropriate. Stress is managed better and easily released. Accelerated healing and release of toxins. Relief from pain and discomfort. Elevated sense of well being.

Independent research by Dr.Robert Becker and Dr. John Zimmerman during the 1980’s investigated what happens in a Reiki session. Their finding were that not only the brain wave patterns of practitioner and receiver become synchronized in the alpha state, characteristic of meditation and relaxation, but also they pulse in unison with the Earth’s magnetic field, known as the Schuman Resonance. During these moments, the bio-magnetic field of the practitioner’s hand as at least 1000 times greater than normal, and not as a result of internal body current. Zimmerman (1990) in the USA;(1992) in Japan further investigated the large pulsating bio magnetic field that is emitted from the hands of energy healers while they work. They discovered that the pulses are in the same frequencies as brain waves, focusing mostly in alpha state. Independent medical research has shown that this range of frequencies will stimulate healing in the body, with specific frequencies being suitable for different tissues.

With great scientific discoveries like Albert Einstein’s Theory of Relativity in 1905, and J.S. Bells Superluminal Theorem of universal connectedness in 1964, and the more recent Morphogenetic Fields by Rupert Sheldrake on consciousness connectedness, our concept of universal energy is ever growing. Quantum physics shows us that we are all energy fields moving and interacting with other energy fields.

According to the 2007 National Health Interview Survey, which included a comprehensive survey of Alternative Modality use by Americans, more than 1.2 million adults had used an energy healing therapy, such as Reiki, in the previous year. The survey also found that approximately 161,000 children had used an energy healing therapy in the previous year. South African’s have also embraced this modality and Reiki is offered not only by wellness practitioners but also in beauty salons, day spas and hotel relaxation stations.

Love, light and loads of laughter
Debz