Reiki is a spiritual, vibrational healing practice used to promote balance throughout the human system. Reiki does not involve physical manipulation, but instead, works with the subtle vibrational field that surrounds and penetrates the body. (The word ‘Reiki‘ is commonly translated from the Japanese as ‘universal life energy.’)
Reiki treatment is usually facilitated by light, non-manipulative touch, given to a clothed recipient. You can receive Reiki treatments from any trained Reiki practitioner – a friend, family member or a person who practices Reiki in a professional setting. You can also give yourself Reiki treatments as part of your routine wellness activities.
People who receive Reiki treatments often express a sense of connection to their own innate spirituality, or inner source of meaning. There is, however, no religious belief system attached to Reiki, and it can peacefully co-exist in your life with whatever religious or spiritual beliefs or views that you hold.
Some people practice or receive Reiki to strengthen their wellness; others use it to cope with symptoms such as pain or fatigue. Some use it to support their medical care, even in cases of chronic illness or “end of life” care. According to a national survey published in 2007, 1.2 million adults and 161,000 children received one or more sessions of an energy therapy such as Reiki during the previous year.