REIKI
Usui Shiki Ryoho
The Usui System of Natural Healing


photo by Terry


REIKI (pronounced Ray-Key) is a Japanese term loosely translated into English as
'spiritually guided universal life force energy.'

Reiki is also generally used as the name of an energy balancing system created in early Twentieth Century Japan, now practiced widely throughout the world.
The system, also known as the Usui System of Natural Healing or Usui Shiki Ryoho, was developed by Mikao Usui from his own spiritual meditative practice or 'method to achieve personal perfection.' The intent of the practice was to attain Anshin Ritsumei, a state in which one's mind is totally at peace - not bothered by anything - and in which one perceives one's life's purpose.

Usui stated that "the purpose of the Reiki system was to bring peace, happiness and health to oneself and then, with the mind of God or Buddha, to others." His memorial states that he purposely created a simple system that could be learned by the common layman, regardless of their culture, religious beliefs, education, or lack thereof.

Although the system was originally influenced by Buddhist and Shinto esoteric practices, the direct application of 'Universal Life Force' or 'Chi' through the laying on of hands has been used for thousands of years by most cultures throughout the world. One need not practice any form of religion in order to be a Reiki practitioner. The Usui system will however, align with any religious philosophy that allows for the acceptance of a Higher Power or Universal Life Force. Usui affirmed that all living things have healing power, especially human beings. It is my belief that this gift is inherent in all people. Usui's system is a very powerful and simple method to access that natural ability that we all have.

Reiki is a powerful yet gentle, non-invasive system that utilizes the gentle laying on of hands (or working off the body in the energy field/aura), to bring balance on all levels to the recipient...mind, body and spirit. Usui Shiki Ryoho is also recognized for its original intent, as a powerful spiritual path, with physical wellness being just one aspect of the system.

History tells us that Usui taught his system to over two thousand people. He also initiated approximately 19 known students to the Shinpiden, or teaching level. A few of those Shinpiden went on to open their own schools throughout Japan, subsequently spreading the teaching of Reiki to thousands of people.

Usui Shiki Ryoho was brought to the West in 1938 by Mrs. Hawayo Takata. Having been trained by Dr. Chujiro Hayashi, a Japanese Naval Surgeon and Shinpiden student of Usui, Takata's teaching method was focused on the energy healing (Teate, 'palm healing', laying on of hands) aspect of Usui's system. For an explanation of Reiki from the personal diary of Mrs. Takata, see the link below, (Excerpts from Takata's Diary.)


Mrs. Takata practiced Reiki in North America for over forty years. Prior to her death in 1980, she initiated a total of 22 masters in Canada and the United States to carry on the teaching of Reiki throughout the world. The great majority of Western practitioners trace their lineage back to Usui through her. Since her death many independent schools and variations of Reiki have been formed.

It is my experience that the energy that we call Reiki, this 'Universal Life Force,' connects us to the 'Source' of all life. It is the 'Light within the Atom,' the 'Primordial Vibration' so often spoken of in cultures around the world. Throughout history this energy has been given many names...OM, AUM, Prana, Chi, Ki, Orgone, to name just a few.

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For me, above all else, Reiki has become a journey...a path to self understanding and self love...a way to go deep within and reconnect and heal myself on every level. I see it as a lifelong process. Reiki must be personally experienced to understand and appreciate it. It is not a 'concept' or a visualization technique. Upon taking the first degree course from a certified Reiki teacher in the Usui lineage, one will feel the healing energy in their hands and with practice, throughout their entire being.

Many studies are now being conducted on the use of Reiki throughout the world. It is used successfully in many hospitals and hospice settings for everything from pain relief to faster recovery after surgery. Several major studies are being done, testing the benefits of using Reiki with HIV/AIDS, Cancer, Fibromyalgia and other maladies.

There is a saying that when the student is ready, the teacher will appear. I also understand that without the student, there is no need for the teacher! Being able to share and teach Reiki is the greatest gift that I can offer in service to others. It is also my greatest joy!

I am always grateful for the opportunity to teach. I would be happy to speak with anyone who is interested in attending Reiki classes.

I am now teaching the traditional three levels of Usui Shiki Ryoho in my home, which is the GAINESVILLE CENTER FOR REIKI TRAINING. Classes are held upon request and a First and Second Degree class is also scheduled monthly. Please contact me via my email address below for more information, or check out my Reiki center page (link below.)

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Sensei Mikao Usui

I thank Usui Sensei and all Reiki masters for keeping the Reiki flame alive and for making this wonderful opportunity available to all of those who desire to embrace healing in their lives!


Copyright_Terry Rogers_2008



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Reiki Practitioners sending Reiki to YOU!!



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Reiki Pages of Interest

Excerpts from Takata's Diary
Gainesville Center for Reiki Training
Monthly Reiki Class Schedule
My Reiki Lineage

Email: mikaousui@msn.com