Exploring Reiki Healing: Origins, Types, and Chakra Alignment

In the realm of alternative healing practices, Reiki stands as a beacon of holistic well-being and spiritual rejuvenation. This ancient healing technique, with its roots in Japan, has transcended time and borders to become a global phenomenon. In this comprehensive exploration, We'll delve deep into the world of Reiki healing. We'll unravel its history, main types and schools, and understand the connection between Reiki and the chakra system.

What is Reiki Healing?

Reiki, pronounced 'ray-key,' is a holistic energy healing practice that aims to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual balance. Its name originates from the Japanese words 'rei,' meaning universal, and 'ki' (or 'qi' in Chinese), meaning life force energy. Reiki practitioners believe that vital energy flows through all living beings, and when this energy is disrupted or imbalanced, it can lead to illness or emotional distress.

The Main Types and Schools of Reiki

1. Usui Reiki (Western Method): The foundational form of Reiki, developed by Mikao Usui in Japan in the early 20th century, is often referred to as Usui Reiki.

Usui Reiki: History and Origins

Usui Reiki, also known as Usui Shiki Ryoho, was founded by Mikao Usui, a Japanese spiritual seeker and educator, in the early 1920s. The story goes that after a 21-day retreat on Mount Kurama, Usui experienced a profound spiritual awakening. During this time, he reportedly received the Reiki symbols and the ability to channel universal life force energy for healing.

The system Usui created is based on five key principles, known as the Five Reiki Principles or the Five Reiki Precepts:

• Just for today, do not be angry.
• Just for today, do not be worried.
• Just for today, be grateful.
• Just for today, do your work honestly.
• Just for today, be kind to every living thing.

These principles serve as both a guide for ethical living and a foundation for the practice of Reiki healing. Usui's teachings and techniques were later passed down through various Reiki lineages, leading to the development of several schools of thought and practice.

2. Jikiden Reiki (Eastern Method)

 Jikiden Reiki: History and Origins

While Jikiden and Western Reiki both have their roots in Usui Sensei's Reiki, they differ and Jikiden Reiki has remained more traditional. 

Jikiden and Western Reiki methods could be called spiritual healing methods, but they are mostly physical treatments.

Benefits of Jikiden Reiki

• Accelerates healing of injuries and after surgical procedures.
• Does not interfere with one's faith.
• Gentle, soothing and non invasive.
• Helps with healing /removal of bad habits and mental clearing process eg. Self judgment, fast food, alcohol, drugs, sugar etc.
• Jikiden Reiki assists in alleviating and controlling an addiction or removing it all together. This depends on the individual experiencing the addiction and other physical and psychological factors involved.

Reiki in Historical Texts

References to energy healing and vital life force can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In Ayurveda, the traditional medicine of India, a similar concept exists called 'prana.' In ancient Chinese texts, 'qi' or 'chi' is described as the fundamental life energy.

However, the specific term 'Reiki' emerged more recently in the early 20th century with the work of Mikao Usui. While Reiki itself doesn't have ancient roots, it draws on universal principles of energy healing found in various cultures throughout history.

Today, there are now over 30 different kinds of Reiki with many sub groups and branches and more are being channeled all the time

Understanding the Chakra System

To comprehend the profound connection between Reiki and the chakra system, we first need to understand what chakras are and how they function.

The Chakra System: An Overview

Chakras are centers of energy within the body, often depicted as spinning wheels or vortexes. These seven main chakras are aligned along the spine, each corresponding to different physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of our being.

1. Root Chakra (Muladhara): Located at the base of the spine, the root chakra relates to our sense of security, stability, and basic survival instincts.

2. Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana): Found in the lower abdomen, this chakra governs emotions, creativity, and sexuality.

3. Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura): Situated in the upper abdomen, it's associated with personal power, confidence, and self-worth.

4. Heart Chakra (Anahata): Located in the center of the chest, the heart chakra is linked to love, compassion, and relationships.

5. Throat Chakra (Vishuddha): Positioned in the throat, this chakra is connected to communication, self-expression, and truth.

6. Third Eye Chakra (Ajna): Found between the eyebrows, it represents intuition, insight, and higher consciousness.

7. Crown Chakra (Sahasrara): Situated at the top of the head, the crown chakra signifies spiritual connection and enlightenment.

The Science of Chakras and Reiki Healing

While the chakra system is deeply rooted in Eastern spiritual traditions, it also resonates with the principles of quantum physics and energy medicine. Proponents of Reiki healing believe that when the body's energy centers are blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to physical and emotional ailments.

Scientifically, there is evidence to support the idea that the human body emits electromagnetic energy. Practices like Reiki are thought to work by balancing and unblocking this energy, promoting physical and emotional well-being. Research into the effects of Reiki is ongoing, but many individuals report experiencing reduced stress, pain relief, and enhanced emotional stability after Reiki sessions.

How Reiki Can Heal

Reiki healing operates on the premise that the practitioner channels universal life force energy through their hands to the recipient, facilitating the body's natural ability to heal itself. The energy is guided with intention to flow to areas of need within the recipient's body, promoting balance and releasing blockages.

Each chakra is associated with specific physical and emotional aspects. Reiki practitioners often use chakra healing techniques to address imbalances within these energy centers. For example:

• Root Chakra (Muladhara): Reiki can help release fear and insecurity, promoting a sense of stability and grounding.

• Heart Chakra (Anahata): Reiki can facilitate the release of emotional pain and promote feelings of love, compassion, and forgiveness.

• Third Eye Chakra (Ajna): Reiki can enhance intuition, insight, and clarity of thought.

Reiki also complements conventional medical treatments. While it is not a substitute for medical care, it can be a valuable addition to one's holistic approach to healing.

My Final Thoughts

In the world of alternative healing, Reiki stands as a powerful practice with a rich history and profound connections to the chakra system. As both a spiritual and scientific approach to well-being, Reiki offers individuals a unique path to healing and personal growth, fostering balance and harmony in mind, body, and spirit. Whether you're a Reiki enthusiast or new to this ancient practice, exploring the synergy between Reiki and the chakras can deepen your understanding of energy healing and its transformative potential. If you are interested in the power of Reiki I offer several healing services which are rooted in Reiki healing: 

1. Distance Reiki
2. Activate Your Highest Expression
3. One:One Soul Alignment Coaching
4. 90 Minute Intuitive Healing Session