Reiki is a Japanese word meaning universal life energy. Reiki is pronounced "ray" as in the sun's rays, and "key" as in the Ki or Chi of Tai Chi and ChiKung (Qigong). This sets up the interesting combination of solar or heavenly energy combined with the more grounded or earthly energy of Ki or chi. It also means that Reiki exists outside of the body, flows into and through the body, and then returns to the universal field.

Since we are all alive, we all have life energy. Since we all have life energy, then we must all have Reiki. Yes, and no. We have it, but most of us are unschooled in the methods for recognizing its presence and then knowing how to utilize it, how to draw it in, open up to its harmony and peace, and allow it to unfold and balance our body/mind/spirit. We too often forget how to get quiet and allow. We feel we must do in order to get. Yet, just as life breath flows in and out, universal energy rides that breath in, and as we exhale, universal life energy flows to each and every cell.

Do this exercise for five minutes. Place one hand on your heart and one hand on the belly. Sit up or lie down, wherever you are. Now, just pay attention to the flow of your breath for five minutes. Do nothing but watch the breath and feel with your hands. I mean that: do nothing but observe. Then record what happened. You are on your way to learning how to receive universal life energy.

There is one more aspect to Reiki that is both extremely mystical and delightful. It is called "attunement" and it is the process whereby a teacher (master) opens the body's subtle energy centers which receive universal life energy and connects them more strongly to the flow of that energy. This is most often done in a class where you are also taught about the history of Reiki practice, how to treat yourself, and how to treat families and friends.

What is a Reiki session?

A Reiki session or treatment is the process of receiving universal life energy through the light touch of a practitioner attuned to Reiki. A session usually lasts about one hour, and 12 to 16 or more locations on the body are held for three to five minutes each. Reiki is most often done through clothing although shoes and belts are removed to increase the ability to relax and to breathe freely.

During a Reiki session, one can also combine the use of imagery, sounds (including music) and scents to augment the effectiveness of the session. Each Reiki session is unique, and each practitioner performs a Reiki session a little differently.

During a session one may feel a sense of deep relaxation or centering. Others will begin to notice a change in their symptoms of pain, depression or fatigue. Because we only receive from Reiki what we need, each person has a unique response to his or her treatment. Not only do sensations vary from person to person, but also one person's experience from session to session can be different.

© 2011, Luann Jacobs for ReikiPartners