In today’s stressful times, when our bodies and souls are constantly under pressure, people are always looking to find ways to unwind and relax. So much stress can lead to negativity and ill health. This is where the practice of Reiki comes in and helps the person.
Reiki may sound “new age” to some, but it’s anything but new. An energy healing form with roots in ancient cultures, Reiki uses what’s known as universal life force energy—ki or qi—to improve people’s lives and ailments.
A spiritual healing art and a biofield energy therapy, it is a complementary approach used alongside conventional medical interventions, not as a treatment. Reiki does not cure or treat any health conditions. There’s no solid scientific proof supporting the existence of the energy field proposed by Reiki.
This blog discusses Reiki energy, what it may help with, and what it doesn’t do.

What is Reiki?
Reiki is a holistic healing practice that originated in Japan in the early 20th century. The word “Reiki” is composed of two Japanese words: “Rei,” which means “universal” or “spiritual,” and “Ki,” which means “life energy” or “vital force.”
Together, Reiki is translated as “universal life energy” or “spiritually guided life force energy.”
Origins of Reiki
Reiki was developed by Mikao Usui, a Japanese spiritual teacher, in the early 1920s.
Mikao Usui’s Quest:
Mikao Usui wanted to discover a healing technique that could restore physical and emotional well-being. His search took him through Japan, China, and Europe, where he studied various forms of healing, spiritual practices, and martial arts.
Attainment of Reiki:
Usui’s journey led him to a profound spiritual experience on Mount Kurama in Kyoto, Japan. It was during a meditation and fasting retreat that he is said to have received the Reiki energy and the knowledge of how to use it for healing.
Teaching and Sharing:
After his awakening, Usui began to teach Reiki to others. He founded the Usui Reiki Ryoho Gakkai, an organization to promote and preserve his healing method.
Spread Worldwide:
Reiki gradually spread beyond Japan, with practitioners and teachers taking it to various parts of the world. Reiki was introduced to the West in the mid-20th century, and since then, it has gained popularity as an alternative and complementary healing modality.
Also Read: Law of Inspired Action
Understanding the Concept of Energy Healing
The concept of energy healing is rooted in the idea that there is an inherent life force or vital energy that flows through all living beings, and this energy plays a fundamental role in our health and well-being.
Energy healing practices aim to balance, restore, or manipulate this energy to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. While various cultures and traditions have their own interpretations and methods, the fundamental concept is consistent: the human body has an energy system, and disruptions or imbalances in this system can lead to illness or discomfort.
Here are some key aspects of the concept of energy healing:
1. Life Force Energy:
Different cultures and belief systems have various names for this life force energy, such as “Qi” in traditional Chinese medicine, “Prana” in Ayurveda, “Ki” in Japanese Reiki, and “Mana” in Hawaiian Huna. This energy is considered the foundation of vitality and health.
2. Energy Pathways:
Energy healing often involves the concept of energy pathways or channels within the body. In traditional Chinese medicine, these are known as meridians, while in Ayurveda, they are called nadis. Practitioners believe that energy flows through these pathways and that blockages or imbalances can lead to physical or emotional issues.
3. Balancing and Clearing:
Energy healing practices typically focus on balancing and clearing these energy pathways. Techniques can include hands-on healing, visualization, meditation, and the use of various tools like crystals, sound, or herbs.
4. Holistic Approach:
Energy healing takes a holistic approach to well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of an individual. It aims to address the root causes of imbalances rather than just treating symptoms.
5. Complementary Medicine:
Energy healing is often used as a complementary or integrative approach alongside conventional medical treatments. It can support the body’s natural healing processes and help manage stress, pain, and emotional issues.
6. Variety of Practices:
There are various forms of energy healing, including Reiki, acupuncture, acupressure, pranic healing, healing touch, and many more. Each practice has its own unique techniques and philosophy, but they all share the common belief in the existence of a life force energy.
7. Scientific Perspective:
The concept of energy healing is often met with skepticism from the scientific community due to the lack of empirical evidence supporting the existence of a universal life force energy. However, some studies have suggested that these practices may have therapeutic benefits in terms of relaxation, pain management, and stress reduction.
Also Read: The Laws Of Universe: Understanding Energy and Vibration
5 Principles of Reiki Energy
The 5 principles of Reiki healing techniques are everything you need to know to grow, evolve, and enjoy the gifted life. Additionally, they are life lessons everyone must adhere to for a better future.
The 5 main principles of Reiki energy healing include:
1. Just for today, I will not worry.
This mainly applies to people constantly on the edge and anxious about situations that life, unexpectedly and expectedly, throws at them. The Reiki’s first principle teaches us to take our present moment and not bother about what’s to come or happen. It’s all about taking a long breath, relinquishing the present, and standing by in your doing.
2. Just for today, I will not be angry.
Anger is that one weapon that makes or breaks your life. Humans tend to channel their anger via a negative outlet, causing destruction. The Reiki’s second principle teaches to control anger. This helps you be constructive with the sudden burst of energy within you. So, think for a moment before you act out in anger.
3. Just for today, I will be grateful.
Practitioners are encouraged to cultivate a sense of gratitude for the many blessings in their lives. Gratitude is seen as a path to contentment and positive energy.
4. Just for today, I will do my work honestly.
Constantly, people are rewarded for their authenticity. Be honest rather than pretending to be someone you are not or hiding the truth to shield yourself from the bad. Allow your actual self to shine through, and if you find people around you unappreciating you for that, it may be time to reconsider who you surround yourself with.
5. Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing.
Compassion isn’t just to be given out. It would be best if you felt the same towards yourself, too. You must stop immediately if you show kindness to people you crossed paths with but beat yourself up because of a small temporary mistake.

Benefits of Reiki
Reiki offers a wide range of potential benefits, including physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of well-being.
1. Physical Benefits
- Pain Reduction: Reiki may help alleviate physical pain and discomfort, making it a useful complement to pain management strategies.
- Relaxation and Stress Reduction: Reiki promotes deep relaxation, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. Lower stress levels have a positive impact on overall health.
- Improved Sleep: Many people experience improved sleep patterns and quality after Reiki sessions, which can be particularly beneficial for those with sleep disorders.
- Enhanced Immune Function: Some practitioners believe that Reiki can boost the body’s immune system, making it more effective at warding off illness.
- Faster Healing: Reiki can accelerate the body’s natural healing processes, potentially speeding up recovery from injuries or surgeries.
2. Emotional Benefits
- Emotional Balance: Reiki can help individuals achieve emotional balance by releasing negative emotions and promoting a sense of inner peace and serenity.
- Stress Management: Reiki is an effective tool for managing stress and anxiety, helping individuals to cope with life’s challenges more effectively.
- Improved Mental Clarity: Many people report increased mental clarity and focus after Reiki sessions, which can be helpful in decision-making and problem-solving.
- Release of Emotional Blockages: Reiki is thought to help release emotional blockages and trauma, allowing individuals to let go of past emotional pain.
- Enhanced Well-Being: Overall, Reiki is believed to promote a sense of well-being and a more positive outlook on life.
3. Spiritual Benefits
- Spiritual Growth: Reiki can be a tool for personal and spiritual growth, helping individuals connect with their inner selves and deepen their understanding of their own spirituality.
- Increased Energy Flow: Reiki practitioners often report a heightened sense of energy and vitality, which they attribute to a more balanced flow of spiritual energy.
- Greater Self-Awareness: Reiki can help individuals become more self-aware and in tune with their spiritual and intuitive aspects.
- Connection with Universal Energy: Practitioners often describe feeling a stronger connection with universal life force energy, which can lead to a deeper sense of purpose and interconnectedness with the world.
- Strengthening of Intuition: Some individuals who practice or receive Reiki report an increase in intuitive abilities.
Important Note:
It’s essential to understand that Reiki’s benefits are often subjective and based on personal experiences. While some people find it transformative, others may not experience as significant of an impact. The effectiveness of Reiki is influenced by various factors, including the practitioner’s skill, the recipient’s receptivity, and the specific goals of the session.
Also Read: 50+ Symbols of Spirituality With Meaning & Power (Full List)
Different Types of Reiki Healing
Reiki has evolved and branched into various types and lineages over the years. Each type of Reiki has its unique approach, techniques, and interpretations while still working with the fundamental principle of channeling universal life force energy for healing.
Here are some of the different types of Reiki healing:
1. Usui Reiki
Usui Reiki, also known as Usui Shiki Ryoho, is the original form of Reiki developed by Mikao Usui in Japan. It serves as the foundation for most other Reiki practices. Usui Reiki focuses on channeling energy through the hands, balancing the chakras, and promoting overall well-being.
2. Karuna Reiki
Karuna Reiki was developed by William Rand and other Reiki masters. It is often considered an advanced form of Reiki and incorporates additional symbols and techniques to work on a deeper level with issues such as past traumas and addiction.
3. Holy Fire Reiki
Holy Fire Reiki is a system of Reiki introduced by William Rand. It is believed to provide a higher frequency of healing energy and is considered a more evolved form of Reiki. It includes the use of specific Holy Fire symbols for healing and spiritual growth.
4. Kundalini Reiki
Kundalini Reiki focuses on awakening and working with the Kundalini energy, which is believed to be a dormant energy coiled at the base of the spine. This form of Reiki aims to raise this energy and promote spiritual awakening.
5. Tibetan Reiki
Tibetan Reiki combines traditional Usui Reiki with Tibetan healing techniques. It incorporates Tibetan symbols, mantras, and practices into the Reiki healing process. This form of Reiki may emphasize spiritual and esoteric elements.
6. Shamballa Reiki (Shamballa Multidimensional Healing)
Shamballa Reiki is an expanded form of Reiki that incorporates additional symbols and energies. It is often seen as a spiritual path and may involve a broader range of healing energies.
7. Rainbow Reiki
Developed by Walter Lubeck, Rainbow Reiki combines traditional Reiki with various other healing and spiritual traditions, including elements of shamanism and meditation. It offers a holistic approach to healing and personal development.
8. Seichim (Sekhem) Reiki
Seichim Reiki, also known as Sekhem Reiki, is an Egyptian form of energy healing. It focuses on connecting with ancient Egyptian healing wisdom and the elemental forces. It is seen as a powerful and transformative form of Reiki.
9. Gendai Reiki
Gendai Reiki is a modern interpretation of Usui Reiki that blends traditional Reiki practices with elements of Japanese spirituality and energy work. It places an emphasis on simplicity and practicality.
10. Jikiden Reiki
Jikiden Reiki is a traditional form of Japanese Reiki that aims to preserve the teachings of Usui Reiki in their original, unaltered form. It is often more structured and focused on hands-on healing.
11. Western Reiki
Western Reiki encompasses various branches of Reiki that have been adapted to Western cultural and spiritual contexts. It often places a stronger emphasis on personal empowerment and individualized practice.

Also Read: What is Gayatri Mantra: Meaning, Benefits and Rules
What to Expect in Reiki Healing Sessions?
A Reiki session is a unique and often deeply relaxing experience that involves the channeling of healing energy by a trained Reiki practitioner.
Here’s what typically happens during a Reiki session:
1. Setting the Environment
A Reiki session is usually conducted in a quiet and serene environment. The practitioner may dim the lights and play soothing music to create a peaceful atmosphere. The client is asked to lie down fully clothed on a massage table, similar to what one might encounter during a massage.
2. Role of the Practitioner
The Reiki practitioner plays a central role in facilitating the session. Their responsibilities include:
- Channeling Energy: The practitioner acts as a conduit for Reiki energy, either by gently laying their hands on or slightly above the client’s body.
- Hand Positions: The practitioner will use specific hand positions, moving them to different areas of the body, including the head, torso, and limbs. These positions correspond to the body’s energy centers or chakras.
- Intuitive Guidance: Some practitioners use their intuition to guide the flow of energy, focusing on areas where the client may need it most.
- Maintaining Presence: The practitioner maintains a calm and focused presence throughout the session.
3. Sensations and Experiences
During a Reiki session, you may have various sensations and experiences, though these can vary from person to person.
Some common sensations and experiences include:
- Heat or Cold: You may feel warmth or coolness emanating from the practitioner’s hands.
- Tingling or Pulsations: Sensations of tingling or subtle pulsations in the body are also reported.
- Deep Relaxation: Many people experience a profound state of relaxation, often leading to a meditative or altered state of consciousness.
- Emotional Release: You may release pent-up emotions or experience feelings of peace and emotional release during a session.
- Clarity of Mind: Reiki can bring mental clarity, insights, or a sense of peace, helping individuals gain perspective on their life circumstances.
- Inner Vibrations: Some individuals report feeling a gentle inner vibration or energy movement within their body.
- Visualizations or Inner Journeys: You may have visualizations, inner journeys, or spiritual experiences during the session.
The duration of a Reiki healing session can vary, but it generally lasts for around 60 to 90 minutes. After the session, you are encouraged to drink water and take some time to integrate your experience. Many people report feeling a sense of rejuvenation, reduced stress, and an overall sense of well-being following a Reiki session.
Also Read: What is 369 Manifestation Method & How to Do It?
What is Crystal Reiki?
Crystal Reiki is a healing modality that combines the principles of Reiki energy healing with the use of crystals and gemstones. It blends the holistic and spiritually guided energy of Reiki with the energetic properties of crystals to enhance the healing process.
In Crystal Reiki, specific crystals and gemstones are used as tools to focus and direct energy. Each crystal is thought to have its unique energy signature and properties that can influence the recipient’s energy field.
The practitioner places crystals on or near the client’s body during a session. These crystals are positioned on specific energy centers, or chakras, to support balance and healing in those areas. The choice of crystals is often based on the client’s needs and the practitioner’s intuition.
Crystals are used to balance the energy and clear blockages in the recipient’s energy field. The crystal Reiki sessions are generally tailored to the individual’s needs. The choice of crystals, their placement, and the overall approach can vary from person to person, depending on their specific goals and issues.
Myths and Misconceptions About Reiki Energy Healing
Reiki, like many alternative healing practices, has its fair share of misconceptions and skepticism. Here are some common misconceptions and counterarguments:
Myth 1: Reiki is a Religion or Cult
Reiki is not a religion or cult. It is a holistic healing modality that originated in Japan and has been adapted and practiced worldwide.
While some practitioners may incorporate spiritual or meditative elements into their practice, Reiki does not promote any specific religious beliefs. It is accessible to people of all faiths or those with no religious beliefs.
Myth 2: Reiki is a Placebo Effect
While the exact mechanisms of Reiki are not fully understood, it has effects beyond the placebo effect. Reiki can reduce stress, anxiety, and pain, and it often produces therapeutic benefits even when clients are unaware they are receiving Reiki. The placebo effect alone cannot account for these observed improvements.

Myth 3: Reiki is Not Scientifically Valid
While Reiki may not fit within the traditional Western scientific framework, there is an emerging body of research exploring the effects of Reiki. Some studies have demonstrated its potential benefits in terms of relaxation, pain reduction, and emotional well-being.
Myth 4: Anyone Can Perform Reiki with Minimal Training
To be an effective Reiki practitioner, it is essential to receive proper training and attunement from a qualified Reiki master or teacher. Becoming a Reiki practitioner typically involves a structured training process, including learning about the energy system, techniques, and ethical considerations. Skilled and experienced practitioners can provide more effective Reiki sessions.
Myth 5: Reiki Can Replace Conventional Medical Treatment
Reiki is often used as a complementary therapy, not a replacement for conventional medical treatment. It is not a cure-all and should not be used in place of medical interventions for serious health conditions. Reiki can be used alongside medical treatments to promote relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being.
Myth 6: Reiki Practitioners Diagnose and Prescribe Treatments
Reiki practitioners do not diagnose medical conditions or prescribe treatments. They work with the principle that the body has the wisdom to heal, and they aim to facilitate the body’s natural healing processes. Reiki is a non-invasive and non-manipulative practice.
Join the online yoga courses by hellomyyoga
Conclusion
Reiki is a complementary treatment. It promotes wellness by creating balance in a person’s life force or energy field. However, insufficient evidence supports Reiki can meaningfully address any health condition.
Never use Reiki as an alternative to traditional medical care or as a treatment on its own. It is a low-risk practice that helps relax while undergoing standard treatment. If you want to try it, look for a practitioner with at least level 2 training. Or preferably one who is registered with a credible professional Reiki association.
Wow, I didn’t know that the practice of Reiki actually came from Japan. I’m interested in looking for a good online Reiki energy healing treatment soon because I’m thinking about finding a good way to make myself feel a lot more balanced. I think that will be a good way to prepare myself as the year comes to a close weeks from now.
Grateful for this insightful put-up on Reiki. Your readability in explaining its concepts makes it on hand for novices like me. Excited to begin my Reiki journey!