Reiki is a form of energy healing that was developed by Mikao Usui in the early 1900's and introduced to the West in the 1970's. Reiki practitioners channel their energy directly from a higher or Divine energy source where it flows from the palms of their hands into the recipient. Reiki has a variety of beneficial effects such as promoting deep relaxation, removing energy blockages, raising vibrational energy and increasing vitality.
Even though interest in Reiki has steadily grown over the years, there are still quite a few misconceptions surrounding it. Here are some common myths and misconceptions about Reiki, along with the actual facts.
Reiki is a Religion
Reiki is a type of spiritual, holistic healing, but it is not a religion. Reiki practitioners follow a certain set of principles, but these are not religious principles. A person does not have to accept any religious doctrines or give up any religious beliefs they may have in order to take part in Reiki.
Reiki is a Type of Massage
Reiki is not a type of massage therapy and does not involve any manipulation of the muscles. Some, but not all, Reiki practitioners may use a light touch as they direct energy to certain areas of the body. However it's not necessary to touch the recipient, and the recipient remains fully clothed.
A Reiki Practitioner is a Healer
Not exactly. A Reiki practitioner channels life force energy through their crown chakra and directs it into the recipient through their hands. So the Reiki practitioner can be viewed as a medium for the process of healing, rather than the actual healer. That being said though, a Reiki practitioner goes through extensive training and develops a knowledge of where Reiki energy needs to be sent. They are attuned to Reiki energy, and are taught the proper hand positions and symbols before they become a Reiki practitioner.
Reiki is a Tibetan Buddhist Healing Method
Although this is a common misconception, Reiki is not related in any way to Tibet and the symbols aren‘t related to any Tibetan sutras. Reiki draws from a variety of Japanese traditions that Mikao Usui was exposed to at the time it was developed, such as Shinto and Tendai Buddhism.
Reiki is the Same as Faith Healing
Faith healing is often done with specific prayers while one is calling upon God. But with Reiki, no specific prayers are used and God is not being called upon. Instead, with Reiki, life force energy is called upon and channeled into the recipient with the use of specific symbols and hand positions. While this gives a spiritual aspect to Reiki, it is not religious. People of many different faiths and beliefs enjoy the healing benefits of Reiki.
