Reiki is a healing technique based on the principle that the therapist can channel energy into the patient by means of touch, to activate the natural healing processes of the patient's body and restore physical and emotional well-being.
Spiritual Roots Founder:
Reiki was developed in the early 20th century by Mikao Usui, a Japanese Buddhist. Influences: Usui's spiritual and educational background included Buddhism and Shintoism. He was also influenced by other healing practices and philosophies.
Reiki as a Spiritual Practice
Non-Religious: Reiki is a spiritual healing art and practice, similar to meditation, but it is not affiliated with any particular religion or religious dogma. Universal Life Energy: The practice focuses on connecting with and channeling "universal life energy," known as "Rei" (universal) and "Ki" (energy). Inclusive: Because it is not tied to a specific faith, Reiki can be practiced and used by people of all religions, or no religion at all, for spiritual and physical healing.
Misconceptions
Not Buddhism: While Usui was a Buddhist, he did not want Reiki to be a religious practice and removed religious elements from it. Not a Cult: Despite having spiritual aspects, Reiki is not a religious system or cult. Cultural Context: In the West, some have tried to obscure Reiki's Japanese origins, even attempting to link it to Christianity, but its foundational roots remain in Japanese spiritual traditions.
Please Note: Reiki is meant to be used as a complement to traditional care or as a personal relaxation or stress-reducing tool. It is not a substitute for qualified medical or traditional care.