Reiki (pronounced RAY-KEE) is a non-invasive, hands on, energy healing system which was founded by a Japanese man named Mikao Usui during the 20th century. The word is of Japanese origin and simply means 'universal' (Rei) and ' life force' (Ki) which is believed to always be flowing through our bodies.
Reiki is a system of healing that heals the body and mind. Using the methods within the Reiki system, a Reiki practitioner is able to transfer the Reiki energy (universal healing energy) via their hands and onto the client, restoring the client's body, mind and emotions into balance and harmony.

Dr Mikao Usui, a Japanese educator in Kyoto, Japan, discovered and developed Usui Reiki at the end of the 19th century. Usui did an extensive study over the period of twenty-one years of the healing phenomena of history’s greatest spiritual leaders as well as ancient systems that are linked directly to the human body and the nervous system which activate the universal life energy for healing.

After undergoing a metaphysical experience personally, he then began to instruct others on this form of healing he named Reiki and taught it until his death in 1893. His tradition and methods were passed through several grandmasters of Reiki. Today, Reiki takes many forms, however, The Usui System of Natural Healing is still the form most widely practiced. Practitioners and Master Teachers are trained through an initiation process where Masters pass on their knowledge and expertise to their students.

Everything in the universe is made up of energy. Each of us is filled and surrounded by this energy which is called Universal Life Force Energy. It is essentially the essence of our being and that which gives life and consciousness. This energy moves around and through us constantly and is utilised in our bodies to nourish every cell, organ and gland. This energy also radiates from our bodies and is called the human energy field (or aura).

If there is a disruption of our bodies life force energy then we become more susceptible to discomfort, further illness and disease. Disruption of the life force energy can occur when it is depleted, imbalanced or restricted by stress and "holding" injury, illness etc. When our energy is restored and vital we are more likely to feel relaxed and our body's own innate healing abilities are kick started and utilised for healing.

Reiki heals by flowing through the affected parts of the energy field and charging them with positive energy. It raises the vibratory level of the energy field in and around the physical body where negative energy and feelings are attached. This causes the disrupted energy to break apart and fall away. In so doing, Reiki clears, straightens and heals the energy pathways, thus allowing the life force to flow in a healthy and natural way.

Reiki can be given to people, animals, plants... in short, all living things. It can also be used with inanimate objects, such as food or medicine, to support the healing/nurturing properties of the substance, as well as minimizing the effects of any harmful properties.
People utilise Reiki for a wide variety of health and wellbeing related purposes such as e.g.
•stress reduction, stress related ailments, anxiety
•emotional balancing, self esteem, mental clarity
•maintaining general wellness
•making or handling changes in your life
•relationships (single, couples, families), past trauma
•fatigue, problems sleeping
•pre and post surgery (relaxation before surgery, reduce recovery time and help with pain management)
•help to reduce side effects of medications or treatments (including individuals with cancer)
•living with chronic conditions
•mental, emotional, physical and spiritual healing
•improving immunity

Reiki can be confidently given to pregnant women and is of great benefit in reducing stress and lowering blood pressure. Reiki will not harm the unborn baby but if you are uncomfortable with giving Reiki to your foetus then the Practitioner can ensure that only you receive the healing.

Reiki is also wonderful for children and they are often very open to receiving the Reiki energy given their lack of social blockages toward such therapies. A wonderful way to bond with your children is to learn Reiki yourself and be able to assist when they are unwell.

PLEASE NOTE: Reiki is not advised for people with mental disorders, anyone taking mood-altering medication or people under the influence of alcohol or recreation drugs.