The word Reiki is made of two Japanese words – Rei which means “God’s Wisdom or the Higher Power” and Ki which is “life force energy.” So Reiki is actually “spiritually guided life force energy.” The practice of Reiki has the power to heal people at mental, physical and spiritual levels but at its most advanced levels can be practiced at a distance, through time, and even through the transformation of water.
The practice consists on the practitioner being a channel of universal life force energy, brought down to the patient to reestablish the healthy flow of qi with either indirect or direct contact. For example the hands are placed over different parts of the body for extended periods of time depending on their healing need.
Thanks to its non-invasive fiscal nature the practice has started to be used as a compliment in hospitals and with people in coma, with severe injuries and terminal cancer patients to connect with them, heal them, ease pain and emotional suffering.
Reiki is a practice that was initiated by Dr. Mikao Usui in Japan through his extensive research of Jesus Christ the healer. At one point during his research he had a deep spiritual experience where he acquired the art he was in search for. With his hands he was able to heal many people even from terminal illnesses. He passed down this power and knowledge to Hawayo Takata a female patient he himself saved from illness and who became his main disciple. Hawaii Takata continued the practice and spread the lineage through her own students to the United States and from there to the world.
Reiki is done clothed. Comfortable light colored clothing is recommended.