Usui Shiki Ryoho Reiki

What is Reiki?

Reiki (pronounced Ray-Kee) is an alternative healing art that stands alone or works compatibly with other forms of treatment.  It involves the channeling of life force energy through the practitioner's hands, usually at the recipient's chakra points, and is a wonderful way to reduce stress and support the body's natural ability to heal itself.

The word comes from two Japanese kanji: KI, life energy, and REI, the higher spiritual consciousness that guides it.  So Reiki is actually spiritually guided life force energy.

One common misconception is that Reiki is a form of massage.  Although a massage-type table is often used, the resemblance ends there.  Reiki works on the level of energy so there is no tissue manipulation involved.  Many massage therapists employ Reiki, however, and it is a wonderful adjunct to other modalities as well.

We are multi-leveled beings, and Reiki reaches us on all levels -- physical, emotional, mental, spiritual.  Blockages of our life force energy can cause conditions of imbalance we recognize as sickness.  Reiki unties our energy knots, smoothes our rough spots, invites peace and encourages us to behave harmoniously with one another.  Using Reiki daily has effected profound changes in my emotional state, my worldview, and my ability to handle the stress of a musician's lifestyle!  And it feels, to me, to be something beneficial and positive that I can offer the world -- in the same way that I hope my music serves to heal, uplift, and open.


How Does It Work?

The ability to use Reiki is not taught in the usual sense, but is transferred to the student during "attunements" received during Reiki classes.

Reiki involves the transference of healing energy into the body by a gentle laying on of hands.  This is usually effected at the chakra points, but can be directed to any area where there is discomfort, injury or energy blockage.  The practitioner acts as a channel for this energy.

While Reiki is spiritual in nature, it is not a religion, nor is it dependent on one's beliefs or background.

A recipient may feel subtle sensations as the energy flows, or an emotional release, or a deep sense of peace.  It will be different at different times.  The healing energy flows regardless of how, or whether, one perceives it on a conscious level.  Many report accelerated healing of injuries, a sense of serenity and focus, and a gentler attitude towards life.  Because it encourages spiritual equilibrium, over time it can also direct one toward a more holistic lifestyle.  Reiki can do no harm; it is a purely beneficial and benevolent energy.

Reiki can be sent at a distance and through time.  Plants and animals love it.  Multiple sessions are effective for addressing negative habits or emotional states, such as smoking, eating disorders, and depression.

Many hospitals are now employing Reiki practitioners for pre- and post-operative treatments, finding that it decreases recovery time.


The Five Ideals

Dr. Mikao Usui, the founder of the Reiki system of natural healing, recommended that one practice certain simple ethical ideals to promote peace and harmony, which are nearly universal across all cultures. Reiki practitioners hold these as part of their "mission statement."

Dr. Usui adopted these ideals from the five principles of the Meiji emperor of Japan, whom he admired. The ideals were developed to add spiritual balance to Usui Reiki.  Their purpose is to help people realize that healing the spirit by consciously deciding to improve oneself is a necessary part of the Reiki healing experience. In order for the Reiki healing energies to have lasting results, the client must accept responsibility for her or his healing and take an active part in it. Therefore, the Usui system of Reiki is more than the use of the Reiki energy. It must also include an active commitment to improve oneself in order for it to be a complete system. The ideals are both guidelines for living a gracious life, and virtues worthy of practice for their inherent value.

Dr. Usui's ideals (translated from the Japanese):

The secret art of inviting happiness
The miraculous medicine of all diseases
Just for today, do not anger
Do not worry and be filled with gratitude
Devote yourself to your work. Be kind to people.
Every morning and evening, join your hands in prayer.
Pray these words to your heart
and chant these words with your mouth
Usui Reiki Treatment for the improvement of body and mind

The founder, Usui Mikao

When I'm not touring with the band, I am available for sessions at my home in Willimantic, Connecticut. Please email me if you'd like more information.