Introduction to reiki

Definition of reiki

Reiki is a Japanese technique for alleviating certain diseases and conditions, ranging from mental health, cancer to spiritual healing. Reiki is done by using hands to bring energy to your body, improving the flow of balance, balancing your energy to aid in healing of your body.¹

Origin and history^2,3,4

• Reiki was developed by Mikao Usui, also known as Usui Sensei, in the early 1920s. Reiki comes from two japanese words rei, meaning “universal” and ki, meaning “life force energy”²
• Mikao Usui had a keen interest in various fields including medicine, theology and psychology
• This inspired him to explore methods of healing through touch, with the goal of creating an approach that was inclusive of all, free from religious affiliations and beliefs, making it universally accessible⁴

Principles and beliefs⁵

There are 5 principles that Reiki practitioners follow. Translated from Japanese, the principles are:

• Just for today, do not worry
• Just for today, do not anger
• Just for today, be humble
• Just for today, be honest
• Just for today, be compassionate towards yourself and others

Understanding reiki healing

How reiki works

Reiki uses hands to restore and heal your body. A typical Reiki session lasts around 20-90 minutes. 

• Initially, a brief introduction about the process will take place. Your practioner will then inquire about your symptoms and any concerns you may have. 
• You will lie down and be covered with a blanket. Your practitioner will ensure your comfort to the best of their ability 
• The practitioner will then guide their hands around your body, where they may touch lightly or have their hands just above your body.
• You may experience sensations in your body, such as warmth or tingling. Some people have also reported seeing visualisations, like images, memories and colours. It is important to simply allow whatever sensations or expeirences arises without overnalysing them.¹

Physical benefits of reiki¹

Reiki allows you to have many benefits, including:

• Pain relief
• Reduces stress
• Improves sleep
• Enhanced immune system

Mental and emotional benefits of reiki¹

Alongside the physical benefits, Reiki can also improve your mental and emotional well being:

• Anxiety and depression alleviation
• Increased emotional balance
• Enhanced mental clarity 
• Improved focus
• Improved self-care

Spiritual benefits of reiki¹

Reiki has also shown spiritual benefits, though the balancing of the different chakras:

• Deepened spiritual connection
• Inner peace and harmony
• Personal growth
• Improved self-awareness

Reiki as a complementary therapy

Integration with conventional medicine

Reiki these days can be seen used as complementary therapy, meaning it is used to work alongside other medical and therapeutic methods. Keep in mind Reiki does not replace other medical methods. It should not substitute other treatment methods that your healthcare providers prescribe, or even be used against medical advice.⁵

Research and evidence supporting reiki benefits

Overview of scientific studies

Research studies suggest that Reiki is more effective than a placebo in calming the nervous system which was demonstrated through lowered heart rate and blood pressure. In individuals with chronic health conditions, Reik seems to help more than placebo, by reducing feeling of anxiety pain and depression and by improving the quality of life and the self-esteem of the individual.⁶

Critical analysis and limitations

Reiki has shown to be very safe without showing any harmful side effects. However, some of the limitations are not with the practice itself, but the lack of scientific background and also it is something that may not work with everyone. Reiki has shown inconsistencies and it is subjective experience, meaning you can not predict how and what you will feel.⁷

Summary 

Reiki is a technique that is used to help ease off certain conditions, like anxiety, depression and stress. It can also be used in complementary therapy using a very gentle touch to move energy throughout the body and the mind for healing purposes. There is still a lot of research that should be conducted to prove the benefits of reiki's benefits, even though it is considered safe, it should never substitute primary treatments and therapy.