Reiki was discovered by Mikao Usui in the early
1920's. A lifelong buddhist, Usui believed that satori (enlightenment)
could be reached through meditation, prayer and fasting. As legend has
it, thus began the lonely climb up Japan's Mount Kurumaya. Usui resolved
to meditate for 21 days and nights until he reached satori or died
trying. Instead, Usui got Reiki.
In the west Reiki is known as a healing technique which can be used
to clear, balance and heal the mind and the body. The word Reiki can be
translated as Rei = divine intelligence, and Ki = life force energy.
Reiki Healers channel this universal spiritual energy through their palm
chakras to their clients facilitating the recipient's self-healing
process.
Thanks to its Buddhist approach to personal development, Reiki has
evolved into a spiritual path which has been embraced by thousands
around the world. At the heart of the Reiki philosophy are the Five Core
Principles:
Just for today, do not worryJust for today, do not angerJust for today, honor your parents, teachers and eldersJust for today, earn your living honestlyJust for today, show your gratitude to every living thing
These principles acknowledge the fact that all we have is the present
moment and the choices it gives us. We can choose to be honest,
respectful, grateful (and I would add, proactive) today. We can also
become aware of the fearful thoughts that affect our wellbeing. Though
planning for the future is a necessity, worrying does not help much.
It can be hard to keep your cool in this pressure cooker we call life
(we are human, after all) and the Reiki Philosophy can be very
grounding, practical and gratifying. It teaches us to:
Do what you must today (with love and gratitude!) for today is all we really have!
On a personal level, I have always experienced Reiki as the brightest
of lights, especially when I received my Reiki Master attunements,
which enable us to teach it to others. This Reiki light was a godsend
when I lived in foggy London, as I felt like I had a bit of Reiki
sunshine to see me through the rain. Likewise we can channel that Reiki sunshine to bring light into our lives, especially if we need a booster.