R e i k i
Reiki (Ray-Key) is a natural method of healing and balancing the life-force energy (also known as Chi, Prana, or Ki) present in all living things. Dr. Mikao Usui is the founder of this healing discipline which he brought forth in the late 1800's within his native community in Japan. He named it Reiki which is Japanese for Universal Life Force or Life Energy.
In this natural method of healing, the practitioner becomes a channel through which this healing energy flows. Light hand placements are used on or near the body in order to guide the energy to all aspects of the body-mind continuum.
The ability to channel Reiki is activated within the student by the Reiki Master through a process called ‘attunement.’ A Reiki attunement facilitates adjustments in the energy anatomy of the student (the chakras, meridian system and human energy field) necessary to channel the Reiki energy. Once attuned, the student becomes a channel through which the Reiki energy flows, able to offer hands-on healing to self or other.
Scientific Basis
From a scientific point of view, Reiki produces results on an electromagnetic level. From recent research, it appears that Reiki and other types of energy work act to electromagnetically ‘jump-start’ the body’s own healing process by producing changes in vibrational frequency that in turn stimulate physical changes in the body. This effect of prompting and supporting the body’s innate healing power may account for the increasing numbers of both individual consumers and health care organizations choosing to include Reiki as a part of their healthcare regime.
Benefits
Reiki clears, aligns, and balances the subtle energy centers and meridians within the body, thereby bringing greater health, vitality, and balance to our lives. Some of the benefits of Reiki include relief of pain, fatigue, and anxiety, as well as a feeling of relaxation and well-being. For those coping with any situation in which energy depletion and discomfort are a factor, Reiki offers a way to relieve discomfort and reenergize. Reiki is also an excellent first aid tool to hasten the healing process in postoperative recovery, childbirth, emergency situations, and any circumstances in which the body has undergone an invasion. It accelerates and enhances the body’s own natural ability to heal itself.
Energy Flow and Comfort
It is preferable to wear non-synthetic clothing (i.e. cotton, silk, or wool; rayon also works well as it is made primarily from trees). Natural fabrics allow the optimum flow of energy along the surface of the body. At best, synthetics impede the flow of energy along the body, and at worst the flow is blocked. It is also advisable to remove heavy jewelry when receiving Reiki. Metal sets up a magnetic field which also interferes with the free flow of energy along the surface of the body. Although the recipient remains fully clothed, it is often of benefit to remove restrictive clothing (e.g. ties, belts, etc.) in order to be more comfortable and relaxed. The body is in a state of heightened awareness during a session and such restrictions can feel uncomfortable and distracting.
Treatment - What to Expect
During the session, the recipient is fully clothed and lies comfortably on a massage table with a pillow or bolster under their knees to protect the low back from undue stress. Blankets and extra pillows are always available to increase comfort and warmth if need be. The session begins with the recipient lying face up while the practitioner places their hands over strategic body positions designed to direct the flow of energy to the subtle energy centers and associated organ and endocrine systems of the body. Halfway through the hour, the person receiving turns face down and the session continues.
A Reiki session lasts from one to one and a half hours in length. The area in which the session is offered is arranged to promote a feeling of relaxation and peace. It is normally quiet with only the addition of soft music. The person receiving can focus on themselves, going deep within, and take a break from daily stress and tension.
Falling asleep or entering a deep meditative state of mind is a normal response to receiving Reiki. This can be an indicator of a number of different factors. Most of us do not get enough rest, and the act of lying down even for short periods of time can prompt a state of deep relaxation. Add to that a constant flow of healing energy, and the stage is set for the body to go into a restorative mode.
Once the session is complete, the person receiving is invited to take a few minutes to integrate and absorb the work before beginning to sit up. It is common to experience a deep sense of peace and relaxation followed by a feeling of being energized. At least an hour of free time is recommended following the appointment to allow for a gradual reentry to the world. Eating a healthy meal, taking a leisurely walk, or sitting quietly are activities which often serve as a good transition to resuming whatever is planned for the rest of the day.
Improved Metabolism and Detoxification
Reiki accelerates and enhances the body’s own natural ability to heal itself. One of the results of this is improved metabolism. This can increase the body’s ability to deal effectively with illness and stimulate a detoxification process. Immediately after the treatment, a feeling of relaxation and peace is common.
Occasionally symptoms of detoxification may be experienced. These are usually short-lived and most often include a feeling of mild fatigue. Release of old emotions can also be a part of the detoxification process. This is just the body’s way of ‘clearing out’ what it no longer needs. The process may be minimal if the recipient is in optimal health, or it may last a short period of time. Ideally, to allow for minimum discomfort and accelerate the process, it is advisable to receive at least 3 Reiki treatments in fairly quick succession.