Reiki is a system of healing originating in Japan. The word ‘reiki’ means ‘universal life energy’, the vital energy around and within all living things.

Japanese reiki is a form of touch therapy in which the therapist uses a both the laying on of hands and distant healing techniques. The therapists treats those parts of the body he or she senses are emitting weak energy, by laying his or her hands close to the site of the problem, this enables energy to start to flow through the therapist’s hands to the patient.

Reiki first started at the turn of the century by Dr. Mikao Usui, a Japanese doctor. Dr Usui developed his healing system from Buddhist teachings and as a result of extensive travels, research and meditation. This system of healing is also based on Sanskrit teachings.

There are three levels of Reiki. At first degree, the pupils learn to practice on themselves and others; at second degree, a powerful form of distant healing and a technique which addresses the cause of problems is learned. The third degree is the level of Master and is only for those who want to make a lifetime commitment to a spiritual path with Reiki – living and teaching it.

Reiki can be used to treat acute problems, such as accidental injuries as well as chronic problems, such as asthma, eczema and headaches.

Typical session

During a Reiki treatment, patients lie on a massage table to facilitate their relaxation. The practitioner’s hands rest lightly in a sequence of positions on their fully clothed body, the aim being to provide a gentle warming vital energy. A treatment lasts up to 1 hour and clients can expect to pay  £28 per hour.