What is Reiki?

 

Karen Wiederhold is a Usui Reiki Master Practitioner and Reflexologist offering treatments at the PhysioKinesis clinic.


  
WHAT IS REIKI?

The practice of Reiki is believed to come from ancient texts rediscovered and

developed by Mikao Usui in Japan early last century. The Japanese word Reiki means 'Universal Energy'. Eastern medicine has always recognised and worked with this energy, which flows through all living things and is vital to the well-being of life. The energy is known as 'ki' in Japan, 'chi' in China, and 'prana' in India.

 

Acupuncture, tai chi and yoga are also based on the free-flow of this energy in a person. As a therapy, Reiki is an effective and simple way of tapping into this energy, and transferring it for the benefit of the receiver, to stimulate the body's own natural healing potential.

 

What are the Benefits? 

 

The energy of Reiki can be used to great effect in many ways. Whether one is

suffering from stress or tension, and the many symptoms associated with this, or wishing to improve the quality of relationships at home or work, the beneficial effects of Reiki occur on many levels. Reiki can accelerate the healing of physical problems, balance the emotions, and free us from restrictive mental attitudes. It may also provide a closer connection with inner wisdom.  Healing is not concerned in any way with distinctions in class, race or religious persuasion.  It works in accordance with the personal beliefs and outlooks of each individual.

 

Reiki encourages and supports positive personal change such as improving the

diet, having more rest, exercise or leisure time, and may reduce the need for alcohol and tobacco. Reiki can allow us to respond more calmly to all events, and build on a more resourceful state of being. Reiki is a gentle energy and may be used safely by all ages, including the newborn, pregnant mothers, surgical patients, the frail and the elderly, regardless of their state of health. Reiki can enhance everyday life, and regular sessions help to ward-off illness and fatigue.

 

Reiki is a non-invasive therapy that can be used without fear of any side-effects or overdose. It may be used with confidence alongside conventional medication or natural remedies because it acts in a complementary way. Reiki is being used in GP surgeries, hospices, cancer support groups, post-operative recovery, drug rehabilitation, prisons and care of the elderly.

 

 

What Happens During A Session?

 

A session is usually carried out with the client lying down or sitting, in a comfortable and peaceful environment. There is no need to remove any clothing. The practitioner places their hands gently, in a series of positions, on or over the body.  The client's system automatically draws in only as much Reiki as is needed, using it in whatever way is most appropriate at the time. Reiki may be felt as a flow of energy, mild tingling, warmth, coolness, other sensations, or nothing at all. Reiki is deeply relaxing, eases stress, and has a calming effect. Treatment is enhanced if one can rest for a while afterwards and drink plenty of water to help the body detox.  Be responsive to the needs of your body, eg resting if tired, and allow the energy to continue its work after the session ends. The beneficial effects may be felt for several days.

 

 

How Often Do I Need To Have A Treatment?

 

Although even one Reiki session can make a difference, it is usually more effective to have a course of regular treatments. This may be weekly, fortnightly or monthly depending on the needs of the individual. For example, if you have long standing emotional or spiritual issues, a series of sessions may be beneficial.   In general if you find that helpful changes are taking place, it is a good idea to continue treatment.  A treatment plan will be discussed with you, and reviewed as necessary. This will always be subject to your own preferences, and can be changed at any time according to progress.

 

 

Safety

 

Reiki does not take the place of conventional medicine. Always consult a GP for an acute or infectious condition, and problems of urgent concern. Reiki is a complementary therapy that works effectively alongside orthodox healthcare, so expanding treatment options.