Here is a wonderful introductory article on Reiki from guest author Niki Klein, co-founder of Academy of Holistic Modalities inc. Niki and I established the Academy in 2001 to provide dynamic learning experiences for those working in the fields of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM). Through the Academy we offer professional certification and personal growth workshops reflective of our beliefs that everyone can achieve health in their own lives.
Reiki (ray-key) is a Japanese technique that is beneficial for stress reduction, pain management and deep relaxation. It is gentle, yet deeply powerful. It holistically aims to relieve the body of physical, emotional and spiritual blockages.
As Reiki involves directing the natural flow of universal energy, it can best be likened to recharging the battery. When a battery’s energy supply is low, it doesn’t function well. By introducing a charge to it, it can once again run on its own.
Reiki assists your body in bringing its energy level back to its natural flow, thereby enhancing your body’s own healing powers.
Reiki works with a very light physical touch, or by working 4 to 6 inches off the body. It is helpful for touch-sensitive clients. It induces a relation response and encourages enhanced function of the body’s own healing system. Studies have shown that deep relation acts to lower blood pressure and heart rate and to relieve anxiety and tension. A state of relaxation assists the immune system to defend against bacteria and viruses. It stimulates the endorphins (natural opiates) in the brain thereby decreasing the perception of pain, and creating a state of well-being.
The ability to perform Reiki comes from receiving an attunement, rather than developing the ability over time through the use of meditation or other exercises.
All Reiki techniques are part of a lineage, meaning the technique has been passed from teacher to student through an attunement process, starting with the one who first channelled the technique.
Reiki does not require that one guides the energy with the mind, as it is guided by the higher power that knows what vibration or combination of vibrations to have and how to act.
Reiki is not tied to any religious dogma.
Reiki can do no harm.
Niki Klein, BIS, RRPr, CAHP, RT-CRA
Co-founder, Academy of Holistic Modalities inc.
Kitchener & Owen Sound, Ontario, Canada
www.academyofholisticmodalities.com