Saturday, September 06, 2008

Dr. Mikao Usui

The story according to Mrs. Hawayo Takata is:
Some of the students asked him one day, in the 1870's, if he believed in the miracles Jesus did (raising dead, etc.). Being a Christian Monk he answered "Yes". They asked if he knew how Jesus had done this, "No" he said. He realized that he must find out how Jesus healed. This immediately set him on a journey of many years. Studying, first at Christian schools in the US with no results. Someone suggested Buddhist writings since the Buddha had also healed. This meant more years at monasteries in the Orient. Nowhere could he find the answers. In Japan he toured all the monasteries there asking about how Jesus or the Buddha had healed. In one small monastery, he found some ancient Sanskrit writings. After a few more years of study, he felt he had come to an understanding and that to go further required serious meditation. He went to a nearby mountain declaring his intention to fast and meditate for 21 days and that if he did not come back they should come and get his body.

He went to the mountain and settled in with 21 stones with which to count the days. On the 21st day nothing had come as yet, and he turned over the last stone saying "Well, this is it, either I get the answer today or I do not". At that moment on the horizon he could see a ball of light coming towards him. The first instinct was to get out of the way, but he realized this might just be what he was waiting for, so allowed it to hit him right in the face. As it struck him he was taken on a journey and shown bubbles of all the colors of the rainbow in which were the symbols of Reiki, the very same symbols in the writings he was studying but had been unable to understand. Now as he looked at them again, there was total understanding.
After returning from this experience he began back down the mountain and was, from this moment on, able to heal. This first day alone he healed an injured toe, his own starvation, an ailing tooth and the Abbots sickness, which was keeping him bedridden. These are known as the first four miracles.
He spent the next seven years in the beggar section of Kyoto, healing the poor and sick people there, assisting them with finding employment, and elevating them out of poverty. However after some time he noticed familiar faces, those of people whom he'd healed long ago who were back again. Asking them, they complained that life outside beggartown was too hard and that it was much simpler to beg for a living.
This threw Usui into a quandary and he returned to the monastery. From this he realized he hadn't taught gratitude along with the healing. That he'd focused on the physical ailments without dealing with the spiritual matters. The people had not understood the value of the gift he gave them. At this point, he developed the Reiki Principles.
Dr. Usui returned to the monastery for further reflection and planning. After some time in the monastery he came to a different strategy. In this new plan he would travel around the countryside from village to village. In each one he would stand in a public place during the day holding aloft a lit torch. When people would ask him why he's doing such a crazy thing, his answer was he was looking for the few who are interested in improving themselves. In this way he traveled around teaching and healing, working both with the spiritual healing as well as physical healing. In following with the Japanese norms of supporting their Master or teacher, they made a personal investment towards their improvement, instead of just accepting some healing.

History of Western Usui Reiki

Reiki has a very unique history. Although the Reiki energy itself goes back over 2500 years, as evidenced in Sanskrit Sutras, and the writings of Tibetan Monks and Enlightened Masters, the history of Reiki at taught today is much more modern. It begins in the early 1900s. Evidence of Reiki from before World War II remained in Japan and has been rediscovered to the rest of the world very recently.
With roots in Japan prior to World War II, it is not surprising that some documentation was lost. Apparently the survivors of Dr. Hayashi lost to the war the resources allowing them to continue the clinic he founded, and many stopped practicing Reiki for fear of persecution for not 'supporting the war'. Others continued to practice and their students are still practicing today.

If it were not for Mrs. Takata learning Reiki and taking it to America, this healing technique would have been lost to the western world. The war brought with it the loss of valuable memories and knowledge that was present in the group who learned from Reiki's originator, Dr. Usui. Mrs. Takata had to modify the story of Reiki right after World War II to make it acceptable to the Christian, western mind. Hopefully, with an open mind, and with practice, study and intuition, we will bring back any lost knowledge.
The history presented here is primarily the story of Reiki according to Mrs. Takata, with some notations about information from one of Dr. Usui's teaching manual included.
Reiki is a Japanese word meaning "Universal Life-Force-Energy". The "Ki" part is the same word as Chi or Qi, the Chinese word for the energy which underlies everything. Reiki is a system for channeling that energy to someone for the purpose of healing. It was discovered by Dr. Usui in the late 1800's. He was born about 1865, and there are two accounts of his discovery of Reiki; one being that he was a Buddhist Monk and after a 28-year quest, he journeyed to Mount Kurama. The other account is that he was a teacher or perhaps dean of a Christian school in Kyoto, Japan.

The Reiki Timer

Many Reiki practitioners around the world have discovered the value of those great CD's that have a tone built in at regular intervals to give them a sense of time in their practice. However, they limited the variety of music you could use - and did not allow you to change the interval or to use silence.

Now, there is a new tool available that allows you to have a wonderful tone at intervals YOU select, freeing you from the watch and the CD music, allowing you to focus on your Reiki session, your meditation, yoga, or therapy session while the melodious and serene gong helps you regulate the time without having to watch the clock. And the aesthetics of this tool are amazing! It adds relaxation and harmony to the atmosphere of the room you practice in, while the pyramidal shape brings its own stability and specific energy.
The Reiki Timer is built to the perfect proportions of the Kheops Pyramid of Gizah, which Feng Shui specialists consider a source of powerful energy, stability, and balance. It is a constructed of natural sycamore wood (base & electronics in black plastic) and one side has Reiki Symbol. This beautiful pyramid chimes a pure gong sound at regular intervals you select. The simple controls in the base of the timer make it easy to set the timer, start it, and turn your focus toward your session. It is 5.3 inches (13.5 cm) long at the base.

The sound of the Reiki Timer is that of a Tibetan "singing bowl" digitally recorded, which gives it a very pure quality. There are 2 volume control options. It is a digital recording of a Rin Gong Bowl and the high-quality speaker inside the natural wood housing produces an amazingly real tone

There are eight possible settings - time intervals especially adjusted to the practice of Reiki: every 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15 or 20 minutes for sessions up to 90 minutes. Of course, the Reiki Timer can be stopped at any moment by simply pressing the on/off button. Running on 4 AA Batteries (not included), you can use this amazing tool for outdoor sessions, without having to worry about power.

The Reiki Timer can also be used by other therapists who would appreciate a discreet and peaceful signal to regulate their sessions. It can also be used as a beautiful reminder of mindfulness at any moment of the day.

Monday, September 01, 2008

Relaxing Into Reiki

REIKI TODAY
Reiki is an ancient healing art that has recently been re-discovered in Japan. With the resurrection of Reiki in this age of mass and almost instantaneous communication, word of its power is quickly gaining the attention of the mainstream world. The mode of transmission of Reiki energy from a Reiki practitioner to a recipient was originally believed, by those interested in this art, to be limited by physical proximity. The Reiki practitioner would place their hands gently on, or a few inches above the Reiki recipient’s body. Upon further exploration of the potential of Reiki, “sending” the energy to the recipient or situation has proven to be just as beneficial as Reiki “hands-on” sessions. In fact, those who are too busy to carve out the time for a Reiki session can now go about their business while receiving the energy. Reiki Masters, such as myself, have directed Reiki energy to boardrooms, pets, surgical procedures, courtrooms, business offices, plants and even sporting events. Reiki distance energy healing has become a viable option for those who would rather not have a “hands-on” session, are home bound, or simply don’t have the time for a session. After experimenting with this mode of transmission, I was utterly amazed at the results. One year of daily remote sessions to a seriously disabled arthritic friend ended up almost eliminating the crippling condition. Today this friend is not only employed, but is doing work that requires physical movement and stamina. As the power of Reiki spreads, individuals seeking sessions now have more options in incorporating it into their schedules and lifestyles.

ORIGIN OF REIKI ENERGY
The origin of this powerful healing energy is believed to be divine. It is the same energy that has been channeled by all the historically famous healing giants. Regardless of its source, or why it works, the results are always positive and directed toward the best outcomes. There is no danger of misuse or abuse. Reiki energy cannot be forced. An individual simply will not take in what it does not want. When Reiki energy is accepted, the highest good of all prevails. The recipient of Reiki need not study, understand or believe in its power and beauty. In fact, the recipient need not be awake while receiving the energy. Reiki energy always delivers the highest good. Considering the source, how could it do anything else? The only prerequisite is that the recipient, on a soul level, really wants to heal. The positive effects of Reiki energy could be quick and dramatic, or, take time to be noticed. The results are unpredictable and pleasantly surprising. One simply needs to trust in the intelligent nature of the source. An acute power of observation would be handy, only to affirm it's often subtle life changes and effects.

FOREIGN NAME - UNIVERSALLY ACCEPTED ENERGY
One need not be mislead or intimidated by Reiki's foreign name. Reiki is called such because, as it happened, this old system of prayer and healing was again returned to mankind via a Japanese man called Dr. Usui. The name "Reiki" is Japanese because that was Dr. Usui's native language. This healing art was known and utilized long before it's resurgence under a Japanese name. The divine is not concerned with nationality. When utilizing Reiki energy, one is merely tapping into the magnanimous love of the divine (God, life force, universe, Christ force, etc). Famous ancient healers such as Jesus used the exact same source of energy as is used by "Reiki." Jesus once said that all he can do can be done by us and even more. The key ingredient is trust. As a Reiki Master, I have learned to trust in the goodness and intelligence of this energy.

APPLICATIONS & LIMITATIONS
The beauty of this divine love is that it does not discriminate between believers and skeptics. Its power has been utilized to positively impact a multitude of people and situations from NBA basketball games (calming potentially volatile players) to conservative institutions such as Wall Street. The healing power of Reiki can be directed toward individuals, pets, plants, living/working spaces, businesses, situations and even future events. This loving energy now called "Reiki” is incapable of hurting other individuals for personal gain. Extremely specific requests can be very limiting. One needs to reflect on the general desired outcome behind the request. An example would be to ask for the "growth of one's business." It would be more productive to ask what you would want from its growth. It may be better to ask for "financial freedom." This broader approach frees up the hands of the divine to send you your best outcome(s). Reiki always works toward the best outcomes. When my clients present me with a request, I will ask that the energy be utilized for the “highest and best” of the individual or situation. It is good to remember that one is only limited by their imagination and purity of your intent.

REIKI HEALING FACILITATOR - TRAINING AND LEVELS
An individual can receive Reiki from what is known as a "Reiki practitioner." The practitioner can lightly place their hands on various parts of the recipient’s clothed body or, the practitioner can remotely send the Reiki energy. In both distance and hands-on healing, the recipient's own body's innate wisdom actually draws the energy through the practitioner and directs it to it's highest good. The healing occurs on a soul determined priority basis. Healing can be physical, emotional or spiritual. I always find it interesting and amazing to witness how the healing unfolds. The practitioner is not responsible for making healing decisions for the recipient. The recipient is the actual healer. The Reiki practitioner merely acts as a conduit of the energy thus serving as a "healing facilitator."

Those who believe in a supreme intelligence can elect to believe the source to be divine, thus creating a cooperative union between one's inner knowing (the soul), and the source (God). My personal evaluation of its magnificent power places God/Universe/Source as the ultimate source of this energy, however, one's personal beliefs or lack thereof do not hinder nor enhance the results of a Reiki treatment.

Going through a special intensive training certifies a Reiki practitioner. The training is conducted by a Reiki Master/Teacher and includes a sacred ceremony called an "attunement." Only after being attuned, can one channel the Reiki energy.

Other healing modalities manipulate "Ki" or life energy. Examples include the martial arts, acupuncture, therapeutic touch, and other forms of "energy work." Reiki is different in that it is extremely focused and need not be guided by a special effort or entering an altered state. The energy destination is divinely directed.

There are different levels and abilities of a Reiki practitioner. To advance from one level to another, a perspective Reiki practitioner must receive an “attunement”. Generally, a person cannot channel Reiki energy without this ceremony. The first level is Reiki I. A Reiki I practitioner is empowered to channel Reiki energy by physically touching an individual with their hands. There must be physical proximity. A Reiki II practitioner is able to "send" the Reiki energy as well as giving hands-on treatments. Again, a special attunement is required to move to this advanced level. The Reiki II practitioner can direct Reiki energy to an individual, plant or animal or situation. When feasible, permission is required. In cases when granting permission is not possible, the Reiki practitioner can seek soul-approval. The next level is Reiki III. A Reiki III practitioner is known as a Reiki Master. In addition to the abilities of Reiki I and II, Reiki III practitioners are empowered with the ability to give attunements. A great deal of training by the master occurs prior to, and then after, the attunement.

Reiki False Beliefs Exposed for All Misinformation Kept Secret

Think everything you were taught or read about Reiki is true? Think again! Controversial bestselling Reiki DVD producer and Reiki author Steve Murray exposes and explains the many false beliefs that perpetuate the teachings of Reiki. This book will upset Reiki Masters who know the truth of the numerous false beliefs exposed. Discover which beliefs and why they will be angry?

This Book is for: -The tens of thousands of Steve Murray's Reiki students worldwide -Reiki Healers to uncover false beliefs they may have that are holding them back from their maximum healing power. -Non-healers who are having or considering Reiki Treatments or becoming a Reiki Healer. This Book will help you discern Reiki misinformation and make informed decisions about Reiki. Plus discover which Reiki False beliefs have the potential for harm! Just a few of the Reiki False Beliefs Steve exposes and explains False Belief - Reiki is unique and different from other healing energy False Belief - Non-healers cannot use Reiki Symbols False Belief - Long Distance Attunements do not work False Belief - Reiki Symbols should be kept secret False Belief - Reiki Symbols have a power of their own False Belief - Reiki lineage is important False Belief - A Reiki Attunement is needed to become a Healer False Belief - Christians do not use Reiki False Belief - Hawayo Takata revived the dead False Belief - Reiki should not be used with pregnant women False Belief - Reiki has to be taught in person False Belief - Hui Yin and the Violet Breath are needed in Attunements False Belief - A Reiki Healer needs to have hot hands False Belief - It takes years to become a Reiki Master False Belief - Psychic abilities are not a part of Reiki False Belief - Reiki works on cars, computers, and appliances

Also Included - Over 100 Reiki Traditional and Non-Traditional Symbols are illustrated from various Reiki systems. - A Reiki Mandela for healing -Information on Reiki Grids Reiki Psychic Attunement step-by-step

Steve Murray is the author of the best-selling Reiki The Ultimate Guide trilogy. Steve also has a series of successful self-healing DVDs that includes the #1 selling Reiki DVDs in the world.

Reiki Healing: Using the power of human touch.

© By: Michael Van Kets
Reiki Healing: Using the power of human touch.

Reiki is a healing technique or therapy designed to reduce stress and promote relaxation and peace of mind. The word Reiki is made up of two Japanese words – “Rei” which means “Higher Power or Wisdom” and the word “Ki” which means “life force energy”. Everything around us is composed of this energy.

When our daily lives become stressful, this is a sign our energies are not balanced. Reiki healing therapy aims to bring our energies into balance and bring health and well-being to our emotional, physical and spiritual systems. It works on the assumption that we have natural healing abilities within our selves and it is the Reiki healing technique that stimulates this process. The role of the practitioner is to channel this “universal life energy” through to the recipient.

The founder of this technique was a Principle of a Christian seminary in the middle of the nineteenth century by the name of Mikao Usui. He offered a set of guidelines for a healthy and peaceful life as well as advocating this technique to redress any imbalances in our energy systems that result in physical illness or emotional upset or trauma.

Below are some of the benefits of Reiki healing:-


* stimulates natural self healing balances energies in the body

* gives strength to our immune system

* gives pain relief

* releases suppressed feelings

* treats the symptoms of illness



If you want to receive a Reiki healing treatment, here is what you can expect in a typical healing session. The healer or practitioner will hold her hands on you or above you while you are fully clothed and lying down on a couch. The healer moves their hands over your body channeling the energy to the required place to bring about healing. The healer is able to know where to go by allowing themselves to be spiritually guided to the relevant area of the body. The effect of this technique is a warm feeling or tingling sensation. It is generally a relaxing and soothing experience. A treatment can last up to an hour or more according to the type of healing required and will often involve the movement of the hands across the body using a number of standard hand positions and covering most of the body’s major organs.

Should you want to be able to use this simple technique yourself, you can attend a class where it is “transferred” rather than taught through an “attunement” given by a Reiki Master. Here the student is given the ability to tap into the “universal life energy” and to use it to improve one’s own health and wellbeing.


Reiki is a simple, safe and non-invasive therapy that everyone can learn to use and benefit from. It has been used to bring relief from a number of physical, emotional and spiritual problems. There is no particular religious philosophy behind its technique and therefore anybody can learn to give and receive Reiki healing. Indeed its holistic approach to healing means it can complement other medical and therapeutic techniques.
Whilst Reiki healing is a safe therapeutic technique, it is advisable that a trusted, reputable practitioner is sought to ensure the most comfortable experience and of course maximum benefits from healing.