What is Reiki?

Late in the nineteenth century, Mikao Usui, a Japanese scholar, began an intensive study of energy, consciousness, healing and spiritual practices. Usui is believed to have tirelessly researched energy healing and brought his discoveries to Japan early in the previous century. While studying in Tibet, Usui learned practices using sacred symbols and mantras to connect to specific qualities of energy ~ energy that is healing and supports spiritual growth. A deeper lineage of Reiki is considered to be from the ancient practices of the Bön lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.

A pivotal part of Usui’s development as an energy healer was a mystical experience he encountered upon completing a 21 day fast and meditation on Mount Kurama in Japan. His experience validated the powerful healing force that he was embodying. Mikao Usui worked for seven years healing in the slums of Kyoto.

Ultimately, Mikao Usui trained over 2000 practitioners before he died in 1926. At least 16 of those practitioners he trained as Reiki Masters. Dr. Chujiro Hayashi, one of those Reiki Masters, utilized Reiki at his three healing clinics in Japan. The practice of Reiki moved to the west when Mrs. Hawayo Takata from Hawaii received Reiki training from Dr. Hayashi while she was visiting Japan. All present day Reiki practitioners can trace their teacher lineage to Mikao Usui who developed the practice as we use it today.