Reiki

Reiki-Treatment.jpg

Reiki is a form of alternative medicine called energy healing. Reiki practitioners use a technique called palm healing or hands-on healing through which a "universal energy" is said to be transferred through the palms of the practitioner to the patient in order to encourage emotional or physical healing.

History

Reiki was developed in 1922 by Mikao Usui, a Japanese Buddhist. Since its inception, Reiki has been adapted into varying cultural traditions across the world. The practice is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's "life force energy" is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy.

Principles

The principles of Reiki are based on five precepts, which are:

• Just for today, I will not be angry.
• Just for today, I will not worry.
• Just for today, I will be grateful.
• Just for today, I will do my work honestly.
• Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing.

These principles are meant to promote a peaceful and harmonious life.

Practice

Reiki is typically administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. The practice involves the practitioner placing their hands lightly on or just above the person receiving treatment, with the intent to transfer healing energy.

Scientific Evidence

There is no scientific evidence supporting the existence of the energy field thought to be manipulated by Reiki practitioners. Studies on Reiki have not shown it to be more effective than a placebo. Despite this, many people report feeling relaxed and less stressed after a Reiki session.

Training and Certification

Reiki training is divided into three levels:

• First Degree (Shoden)
• Second Degree (Okuden)
• Third Degree (Shinpiden) or Master/Teacher level

Each level involves attunements, which are said to open the student's energy channels to allow the flow of Reiki energy.

Criticism

Reiki has been criticized for its lack of scientific basis and is often considered a pseudoscience. Critics argue that any benefits from Reiki are likely due to the placebo effect and the relaxation response.

See also

• Alternative medicine
• Energy medicine
• Holistic health
• Mikao Usui

External links

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