Reiki

'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.'

Oxford English Dictionary

What is Reiki?

The Japanese word ‘Reiki’ literally translates as universal life force energy (Rei-Universal, Ki-Energy). This system of healing was developed by Mikao Usui in the early 20th century. It is an alternative and complementary non-invasive therapy that has been taught and used in the UK since the late 1900s, but Eastern medicine has for thousands of years worked with this energy, recognising its flow through all living things.

Reiki supports conventional medicine or can be used alone. As a complementary therapy, it works in conjunction with conventional medicine and/or other therapies. It can strongly support the individual in several complex existential situations, such as stress, tiredness, discouragement, sadness, depression, and even in more complicated situations or diseases, thus helping the patient to find their vital energy balance.

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Reiki is administered through gentle touches or at a short distance from the patient's body, following strict codes of ethics (the patient is always dressed), in a quiet environment where 'Universal Energy' is transmitted. It can be given and received equally effectively without touch, or via distant healing. Reiki’s gentle energy is easily adapted to most medical conditions and may be used safely by people of all ages, including adults, children, pregnant women, babies, and even animals.

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Reiki is often referred to as an intelligent form of healing. It is suggested that this and similar energy therapies may be valuable in the prevention and remission of some serious diseases that are so costly in terms of human suffering and likely to be more expensive to health care in the future. Illness can be a time of great stress. Reiki can help us cope by encouraging relaxation and bringing balance to both mind and body.

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​Reiki also encourages and supports positive personal choices, such as improving diet, taking more exercise, devoting time for rest or leisure activities, and may reduce the need for alcohol and tobacco. Creating greater inner harmony and balance, regular Reiki treatments promote a calmer response to life’s challenges.​ Benefits reported by clients of the UK Reiki Federation and Portuguese Association of Reiki include deep relaxation and promoting a calm, peaceful sense of wellbeing on all levels.

Being complementary, Reiki works effectively alongside conventional healthcare and natural remedies, expanding treatment options.

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