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Most of us are oblivious to the sea of energy that surrounds us, just as a fish may well be so used to navigating through water that it is no longer aware of it. Quantum physicists believe that everything is made up of energy at the most subtle level. This energy is the lifeforce that gives vitality to every form, it is the underlying intelligence that organises our world and everything in it. Ancient civilisations have long been aware of the existence of this energy, and have known it by many names – examples are ‘ki’ in Japan, ‘chi’ in China and ‘prana’ in India.
While we all have access to this universal energy every moment of our lives, most of us lack a way to consistently tap into it to accelerate our own and others’ healing. Reiki is a precise method for connecting us to this universal energy that enlivens us all. ‘Rei’ refers to universal or cosmic. ‘Ki’ is the lifeforce which flows through every living thing.
This simple hands-on healing art balances your energy throughout your whole physical, emotional and spiritual bodies. It releases stress and tension, and balances the immune and nervous systems, allowing our bodies to naturally return to balance.
Everyone has access to universal energy. What is different about Reiki is that the attunement process opens the channel for more energy to flow through the practitioner. Reiki is simplicity, no complicated methods or techniques are needed. Once attuned to the energy, as soon as someone lays their hands on themselves or someone else with the intention of transmitting Reiki, it begins to flow.
Because Reiki induces the relaxation response, it can help to accelerate healing from most conditions. A deep state of relaxation has been shown by studies to lower blood pressure, heart rate, tension and anxiety. It also enhances function of the immune system, our first line of defense against viruses and bacteria. Natural endorphins are also released when you are in a state of relaxation, and this can help to increase feelings of well-being and reduce pain.
Reiki is very safe, and the energy can flow easily through clothing, bandages, casts etc, so a Reiki treatment is unobtrusive for both the receiver and the practitioner. Reiki does not depend on any belief system, it works whether you believe it or not.
Reiki also works well in conjunction with the healing properties of all modalities including orthodox medical treatments and natural therapies.
A Reiki Treatment
A Reiki treatment is usually done with the receiver lying (fully clothed) on a massage table, but can also be done on a chair or bed, and generally lasts for about an hour. The practitioner gently lays their hands on various positions throughout the body. Most people feel warmth or gentle tingling in the area being treated, together with a deep sense of relaxation which evokes a sense of peace and well-being. Some people even relax so much that they fall asleep during treatments!
While receiving Reiki from someone else is wonderful, and an experience not to be missed(!), one of the most amazing things about Reiki is that you can easily treat yourself. This means that you can top up your energy and inspiration on a daily basis, and prevent illness and stress, instead of just using the energy to heal when you are ill or upset. | 
