We all face a time in our journey when we realise we are stuck.

Some compensate, others deny, some BREAK FREE! 

Human Experience ... Human Choices

 Click link below for more info. Mind Matters

Mind Matters

Reiki and Stress

 

 

 

If we can accept that we are the sum total of all past thoughts, emotions, words, deeds and actions and that our present lives and choices are coloured or shaded by this memory bank of the past, then we begin to see how a process of correcting or setting aright can change our lives, our families and our society.

 
"We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time."
 T.S. Eliot

 

Current Research

(Rosemary is a friend of mine and this area is her speciality at the moment) - the following is part of a conversation I had with her by email, and because it is so relevant to conscious awareness I asked if she minded me putting it on the website:

Rosemary Kishibi (Particle Physicist):

Inside each brain cell is billions of tiny "microtubules" made up of long chains of carbon atoms arranged side by side to form semi-conducting "tubes".

This research has only been possible since the advent of Quantum Tunnelling Microscope , (this is what I work in) . It is the individual carbon atoms in the walls of these tubes that form the "computing units" that the brain uses. (I will notgo on about this here or try to explain it all , a) , my English writing is not good enough , and , b) it wiould take forever!!

What it means is that a brain has theoretically UNLIMITED information / memory storage "capacity" (although am using the expression "computing units" a lot here , this IS NOT like a "digital" computer that we know and use , dont think of it like that! IS MORE LIKE "ANALOGUE" if you described it in terms of technology.

THE IMPORTANT THING THOUGH IS THIS ; It almost certainly means that what we call "consciousness" , and also "thought" CAN EXIST OUTSIDE OF THE PHYSICAL CONFINES OF THE BRAIN.

Much research is going on with this right now , is fascinating stuff . It suggests that "we" , our "conscious" selves , what people have been calling "spirit" or "soul" or whatever you want to call it is very real and we are not as "physical" as some people like to think.

 

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BEYOND "UNIVERSAL ENERGY": DEFINING REIKI

While the term "Reiki" is used to describe both the system of healing & spiritual development developed by Mikao Usui, and the therapeutic 'phenomenon' at the heart of the system, it is this latter - the 'Reiki' itself, rather than the system - that I wish to focus on here.

When it comes to the matter of a definition of Reiki, a commonly held view amongst Reiki practitioners, it seems, is: "don't think too much about it - Reiki is experiential - just do it.." - and of course, in one sense, this is true.

But, on the other hand, as the Shakyamuni Buddha is credited with saying: "With our thoughts we shape our reality".

So too, I would venture to suggest: "With our thoughts we shape our Reiki..."


Takata-Sensei's Explanation of Reiki:

When asked what 'Reiki' meant, Takata-Sensei frequently gave a very simplistic answer, along the lines of: Rei means 'Universal', and Ki means 'Energy'.
[Yet it has been said on more than one occasion that this particular explanation was something that only came to prominence, probably during the latter 60's, to fit a more generalised 'frame of reference' of the people drawn to her as potential students]

However, in attempting to transmit a deeper understanding of the meaning of Reiki to her students, Takata-Sensei spoke of Reiki as:

"...a universal force from the Great Divine Spirit"

and

"...a cosmic energy to heal the ill..."*

and yet more specifically, as:

"God Power".

" It is not associated with any visible material being.", she said of it, "It's an unseen spiritual power that radiates vibration and lifts one into harmony. This power is incomprehensible to man, yet every single living being is receiving its blessings..."

[This interpretation of Reiki as: 'God Power' has lead many to the conclusion that, in giving the 'simplistic' interpretation: "...Rei means 'Universal', and Ki means 'Energy'...", Takata Sensei was actually using 'Universal' in the sense that many mystics have used it, i.e.: as being a contraction of: 'the Universal' - an alternative (and intentionally less religious) term for 'the Divine', ' the Numinous' or 'God''.]

The usual way in which Reiki Teachers tend to explain Reiki to new students, is to opt for the simplistic approach [generally a very good place to start] - the "Rei" part of the name being translated as "Universal" (though some do explain that in essence, it refers, more properly, to something Spiritual or Sacred, and can mean "Soul"), and "Ki", translated simply as "Life-Force Energy" (though a few mention that it also implies 'Spiritedness', 'Feelings', or the effect of energy in action.)

Some Reiki Teachers, seeking a middle ground between, on the one hand, the more ''Newtonian' / 'scientific' concept of 'Reiki as Energy', and on the other, the more 'Spiritual' concept of 'Reiki as the Power of God', express Reiki as: "Spiritually-influenced (or "Spiritually-guided") Life-Force Energy"; or even as "Charismatic Healing Radiance".

Others, seeking to play down the (I personally feel, undue) emphasis on the concept of 'Reiki as Energy', without necessarily using terminology implying 'Things of the Spirit', prefer to speak of Reiki as an 'Experiential Phenomenon'.


'Reiki' - in common Japanese usage:

In many modern Japanese-English dictionaries, the term Reiki, (written using the modern style kanji-pair) is given (in common usage) as meaning: 'Aura'.

'Reiki' can also refer to the 'Holy Atmosphere' one experiences at a Shrine, Temple Holy Mountain, or other sacred site.

And of latter years, probably due to the re-surgence of interest in the modality and its growing popularity - 'Reiki' (written using the 'traditional' or 'old style' kanji-pair) is beginning to appear in some modern Japanese-English dictionaries to denote the 'Healing Method'.


The Reiki Kanji themselves:

As a general guide, the meaning of a kanji-pair is derived from a synthesis of meanings of the individual kanji making up that pair; and so, the meaning of 'Reiki' is ultimately derived from meanings attributed to the individual kanji: 'Rei' & 'Ki'.

NOTE: We should always remember that the 'romanised' five-letter word: 'Reiki' is simply a transliteration of the Japanese, and just as in English where (for example) the words 'rite', 'write' and 'right' all have the same sound, so too in Japanese there are often many words that sound the same, yet are written in different kanji - and have very different meanings.

As distinct from 'Reiki' i.e. the spiritual/therapeutic 'phenomenon' associated with Usui-Sensei, there are also several other, un-connected, written forms of the double-syllable: 'rei-ki', each having their own distinct meanings - including: sacred ground or sacred precincts; established rule; cold, chill, cold weather, cold wave, cold air; & (electrical) excitation.

Here, obviously, we are concerned solely with the 'Rei' and 'Ki' kanji as used to denote 'Reiki' - the spiritual/therapeutic 'phenomenon'.

As is the nature of kanji in general, the kanji 'Rei' & 'Ki' can have many levels of meaning.

A linguist (or for that matter, a good academic Japanese-English Dictionary) will explain that -

'Rei' encapsulates/refers to:

The Divine, the Numinous
The Mysterious
The Supernatural
A supernatural Being or Spirit
The Spiritual nature
Luminosity of the spirit; the luminosity of a God or Sage
Charisma, charismatic power
Inconceivable spiritual ability
The Soul
Something Pure, Unpolluted
Bright, Clear
Goodness
Something wonderful; a wonder
Excellence, Efficacy
A shaman, a person or being with spiritual or supernatural powers
A rainmaker, a diviner

'Ki' primarily encapsulates/refers to:

Heart
Mind
Influence
Spirit (in the sense of 'Spiritedness')
Feelings

and also:
Will
Intent
Invisible life-force
Vital Energy
The generative forces of Heaven & Earth
The material force of the Universe
Air
Breath
Steam (the kanji for 'ki' implies steam rising from a covered pot of rice cooking over a fire, with the lid of the pot being lifted by the steam.)
The effect/result of energy being expended


Reiki as 'Energy' or ...

When we speak of Reiki in terms of 'energy', what do we understand by this - many have a perception akin to that of electricity flowing through a wire, to others it may be one of 'emoting' or motivating force, yet others still will hold a perception of 'Love'.

As mentioned, Takata-Sensei also referred to Reiki as 'God Power' - something Spiritual or Sacred.

It is commonly expressed that "Reiki has its own Intelligence" - that it is "Spiritually-influenced" or "Spiritually-guided".

Would this not put it more in the category of 'Energy-Presence' or 'Energy-Sentience'?

Since the latter part of the 19thC, when metaphysical, mystical, and spiritually minded people began to adopt a 'more scientific' vocabulary in which to attempt to express their conceptualisations, it has been a common (and often unconscious) practice to substitute terms such as 'energy', 'energies', 'vibrations', etc. for supposedly 'less scientific' terms such as Spirit, Spirits, Presences, etc

So just where does 'Energy' end and 'Spiritual Entity' or 'Presence' begin?

Depending on the given context, the word Reiki can be used to suggest a Spirit, an Aura - even, in certain cases, to refer to the influence of a Ghost or Ancestral Spirit.

The manifestation of some form of Numinous Being or Presence is a common concurrence with instances of kantoku (visionary mystical experiences) or satori (lesser-enlightenments) in Japanese Culture.

The following is an extract from the writings of Morihei Ueshiba - the founder of the Spiritual Discipline and Martial Art: Aikido - describing his 'satori'-like mystical experience out of which the art of Aikido was created:

"Then in the spring of 1925, if I remember correctly, when I was taking a walk in the garden by myself, I felt that a golden Spirit sprang up from the ground, veiled my body and changed my body into a golden one.

At the same time my mind and body turned into light. I was able to understand the whispering of the birds, and was clearly aware of the mind of God, the Creator of this Universe..."

Now, in the account of Usui-Sensei's experience on Mt. Kurama, recorded on his monument, it states:
"One day he went to Kurama Yama on a 21-day retreat to fast and meditate. At the end of this time, he suddenly felt a great Reiki over his head and received spiritual insight into the Reiki healing method..."

"...a great Reiki over his head..." - this is usually interpreted as meaning he felt 'Reiki energy' but it may in fact be simply stating that he had a kantoku visionary experience of a great (in the sense of 'important') Spirit over his head. A vision of, as Takata-Sensei put it 'God Power' - the Power of God - what in western terminology we might refer to as the 'Holy Spirit' - an 'energy' in the sense of a Numinous Being (in the Japanese conceptual view, possibly: a kami, butsu, or bosatsu) rather than 'energy' in our Newtonian understanding of the term.

So, while the commonly-held perception of Reiki may well be that of Healing Energy - possibly even 'Spiritually-influenced' or 'Spiritually-guided' Healing Energy, perhaps it may help to deepen the quality of our connection if we allow ourselves to perceive Reiki - not so much in terms of a 'Universal Energy' - as in terms of a 'Universal Spiritual Presence' - a 'Holy, Healing, Spirit Presence'.

In this perception, Reiki as a system can truly be claimed to be a system of Spiritual Healing - a charism - a 'Gift of the Spirit'.

Copyright © 2002/3 James Deacon

Note: *It seems that in hearing Takata-sensei speak of Reiki as a "...a universal force from the Great Divine Spirit" and '... a cosmic energy...' , many of her students took this to mean that Reiki - as an 'energy' - was something outside of ourselves: something 'out there' - beyond us. Something we 'channeled', rather than something arising within us. And this is the understanding these students passed on to their own students.

However, this idea of Reiki as being something external is perhaps only part of the truth...

In a diary entry dated Dec. 10 1935, Takata-sensei wrote about Reiki being:

"...Energy within oneself " - and also about how we must "...meditate to let the "Energy" come out from within."

Concerning the "Energy" she said: "It lies in the bottom of your stomach about 2 in. below the navel."

 

 

James Oschman is one of the leading authorities on the scientific understanding of hands-on healing. His extensive background as a scientist and his experience and understanding of holistic healing place him in a unique position to bridge the gap between the academic/medical world and the healing community. His book, Energy Medicine, and his soon-to-be-released new book, Energy Medicine in Therapeutics and Human Performance, are remarkable in the way they easily convey a scientific basis for hands-on healing. His work makes it easy for doctors and scientists to understand and accept Reiki, which is valuable for anyone wanting to place Reiki in hospitals or to work in a clinical or scientific setting. His fascinating ideas and insights give a new perspective on how Reiki works which inspires us to make better use of our skills.

Click link below for interview transcript:

Science and The Human Energy Field James L. Oschman, Ph.D.

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Shou Matsui's Article in Japanese

 Shou Matsui's
1928 Reiki Article


Shou Matsui's 1928 Reiki Article: "A Palm-Healing Treatment to Cure Diseases "

This is a newspaper article written in Japan in the early 20th Century by a man  who was taught Reiki by Dr Hayashi.


Disclaimer:This article appears here for information purposes only in relation to the history of Reiki and is not meant to infer or suggest that such physical healings can be carried out by someone trained in Reiki. ANY healing that occurs, or any condition that improves, happens because the recipients own natural healing systems kick in. 


Please also bear in mind that Reikipathway teaches the ORIGINAL system which was concerned with personal evolvement and in fact, any physical help it gave was not considered directly the purpose for passing Reiki. As you know from the Manual, Dr Hayashi was a medical doctor and had asked Usui to train him in Reiki  - Usui and he then adapted the original process to suit his needs.  

Shou Matsui (1870 - 1933) had worked as a journalist before becoming well-known as a playwright and drama teacher, and supporter of the traditional form of Japanese Theatre called Kabuki. He was also one of Chujiro Hayashi's Reiki students.

Even as a playwright Mr. Matsui continued to write articles and reviews, etc, including one particular Reiki-promoting piece, published in the 'Sunday Mainichi' [Sunday Every Day] Magazine, on March 4th, 1928.

In response to a request from a reader who wrote:
I would like to learn about the treatment introduced in the book presentation by Shou Matsui in the 'Mainichi' on January 30th.

Mr. Matsui responds:

"I am pleased to discuss this method.
This cure-all treatment is called "Reiki Ryoho" and is practiced by an elite group of people. It was created, or rather founded, by Sensei Mikao Usui who passed away a few years ago. Currently, his students have clinics where they practice healing and train others in Reiki Ryoho. Although remarkable in its effectiveness, not many people are familiar with this treatment. Sensei Mikao Usui did not like to advertise Reiki Ryoho and so his students are also hesitant in publicising it."

Mr. Matsui goes on to say that he really can't see why they don't make an effort to publicise Reiki Ryoho. He comments about how various religions proclaim and spread their teachings - speaks of the positive use of propaganda and how if the truth can make people happy then it should be a persons duty to spread the truth.

He continues:
"So it is that when asked, I always promote this Reiki Ryoho in a positive way. I will write about it if asked. Yet my doing so attracts criticism from other Reiki Ryoho practitioners. I do think it is a shame to refrain from publicising such a great healing technique. It is a both a moral and a social shame and I am always pleased to promote it."

Mr. Matsui continues to explain that he wouldn't like readers or other journalists to get the wrong impression. He does not want people to think that the reason Reiki Ryoho practitioners generally do not promote their art is because it is all sham and trickery.

"So, I will take on the responsibility and promote the truth about Reiki, both for the sake of the art and for the sake of those who are suffering. In writing this, I am acting on my own - these are my thoughts, and I am responsible for them, this has nothing to do with other Reiki Ryoho practitioners. I find I am so excited about this treatment that I can hardly concentrate on scriptwriting since having learned how to use it."

It is, Mr. Matsui says, his desire to promote Reiki Ryoho far and wide, so that not only the Japanese people, but people all over the world will be free from disease, know excellent health and be much happier.

Yet in the same breath, he mentions how in the years since Reiki Ryoho was first developed by Mikao Usui, only a handful of clinics have actually been established to provide this wonderful treatment.

Mr. Matsui goes on to speak about how he was initiated into Reiki by Chujiro Hayashi - a warm-hearted yet serious man, according to Matsui - one who seemed as if he had been destined from birth to work with Reiki.

He mentions that Chujiro Hayashi gives Reiki treatments to clients in the morning, and teaches Reiki Ryoho for five days each month.

He then goes on to explain that, because there are numerous other treatment methods and sects which have the syllable 'Rei' in their name, many people incorrectly assume Reiki Ryoho is connected with these other groups. [Note: in the early part of the 20th C, several such groups were viewed with suspicion due to supposed 'cultist' behaviour] And, as Reiki Ryoho practitioners are unwilling to speak out and clarify their beliefs and position, it is little wonder that this much-needed treatment style has not grown in popularity.

"I would like to state that, of all the treatment methods I have encountered, Reiki Ryoho is the most effective and the most unique. It can really heal, whatever the disorder. People ask: 'is Reiki Ryoho effective in dealing with psychological disorders?' Yes it is, and it can also heal all manner of internal diseases and external injuries as well. Intestinal problems, burns, rheumatism, nervous problems - the lot!"

Reiki Ryoho, Mr. Matsui explains, is considered a spiritual technique - as the "Rei" part of the name suggests. However, he himself considers it to be a very practical, physical technique.

Mr. Matsui says he bases this belief on his personal experience, having successfully treating more than a hundred patients. He says that some people put the effects of Reiki Ryoho on a par with the miracle healings of Jesus, but that he, Matsui, is simply a normal, practical-minded, and common person - not a great person, not a man of great character. He does claim to be 'spiritually advanced'.
To him, Reiki Ryoho is not something supernatural, but a natural, physiological treatment method.

He then goes on to give some examples of disorders he has treated, explaining that he has effected many such healings which, though seemingly miraculous, are simply the result of applying a practical treatment (Reiki Ryoho) which stimulates the body's self-healing mechanisms.

Explaining how he gives treatment, Mr. Matsui says:
"I simply place my hands on the affected part. I don't push or pat. To me, this is the interesting point about this healing method. I scan the patient's whole body, sense the source of the disorder, treat that area, and the healing effect is dramatic. I can discover the source of disease because I will feel pain when I place my hands there. Depending on the disorder, the intensity of pain differs, but I am not sure of the precise relationship between the condition of the disorder and the intensity of pain felt. I don't just feel this pain in my hands at the point indicated by the patient, I also feel it at the point which is the source of disease, so I can find the treatment point easily. Unlike doctors, I do not need the patient to tell me where and how they experience their disorder. Patients may be suspicious about my treatment, but no matter, within thirty minutes to two hours their condition will undergo a noticeable change.

As an example, take a man with serious heart disease. His pulse is 85 beats per minute and he feels pain in the heart. His doctor says there is cardiovascular constriction. Yet I don't feel any pain in my palms when I place my hands over his heart. But as I move down to the area of the stomach, the intestines, and the kidneys, I experience sensations of pain and so I give Reiki treatment to these areas. In a short time his condition improves.

So why is the heart condition healed? And why do the healer's hands experience pain? These are important questions. It really is a mystery how disorders which the doctor has given up on can be healed by laying hands on the body. While it cannot be truly explained, it is generally seen as a spiritual phenomenon.
In my opinion, the blood circulation in my hands has increased since I was initiated by Mr. Hayashi.
I am unable to reveal Mr. Hayashi's teaching method and initiation process, but certainly this was what gave me the healing ability, and strongly sensitised my hands.
Anyway, I believe the increased circulation in my hands stimulates the patients own blood circulation when I place my hands on their body."

Mr. Matsui then explains that in his view, the patient's circulation and pulse rate become synchronised with those of the therapist and this is how healing occurs.

He goes on to say:
"When I speak to them about Reiki Ryoho, most 'intelligent' people will say, "It must be 'Animal Electricity'."

But, he continues, current science doesn't clearly understand the nature of electricity, and likewise the true nature of Reiki cannot be easily explained or defined now. Mr. Matsui says that, in his opinion, the effect of Reiki treatment could be due to something such as the 'ether' - but as the 'ether' has not been not examined scientifically either, people will laugh at him.

"But when I need to explain to a patient about the Reiki effect, "ether" is a good analogy."

He says that he cannot explain clearly and correctly - that he does not have the mathematical skill.

" Anyway, now I am satisfied with the practical effect of Reiki. And at first, even I laughed at the idea of this treatment."

He explains that one day he told a friend that as he was feeling unwell he thought he might take up playing golf. The friend, whose opinion Matsui valued has told him about Reiki.

"I became interested in it, and while not really believing in it, I and my family took training in it."

Mr. Matsui says that, soon after starting to learn Reiki, he had occasion to try Reiki Ryoho on a man who had a fish bone stuck in his throat.

" I tried Reiki Ryoho on him without expectation, and the pain was gone. It was then that I understood the essence of this treatment. I cannot laugh at the Reiki method anymore."

"I was introduced to Mr. Hayashi by a mutual acquaintance and I paid a large sum of money to learn this treatment method. There are several grades including Shoden (elementary level) and Okuden (advanced level), but I am still at the elementary level - not yet having reached Okuden.

I am not sure of all the details yet but I've heard there are further grades to achieve. Those involved with this Ryoho are very modest and don't like to boast about the wonderful treatment. It is odd that such modest people create grades and charge for initiation into this method, but I suppose we must accept that it is their prerogative.
For this reason, I am not free to discuss the means of initiation into this healing ability, or the precise details of its application."

However, Mr. Matsui does say that he feels he can speak briefly about some aspects of Reiki Ryoho training:

"To begin learning Reiki Ryoho, you train for an hour and a half a day for five days. Some people can heal others from the very first day of training. It's so easy to learn this treatment. A special inherent state of consciousness, like a sixth sense, is awakened by the training and the ability to heal is activated. The Teacher gives clear and simple instruction. The ability is common to all people and everyone except babies can use it to heal others. The treatment involves simply placing your hands on the affected part. There is nothing easier than our Reiki Ryoho. I should really like to share this treatment process, not just with an elite group of people, but with the general public, but I am unable to do so for the reason stated above. All I can do is to speak about Reiki Ryoho's existence so that as many people as possible will know about it."

After giving a further three examples of cases of healings he has effected with Reiki treatment, Mr. Matsui concludes:

"I could go on recounting my stories of healings brought about by Reiki Ryoho.
However, there are, no doubt, many skeptics who wont believe me, and this is only natural if you haven't experienced it yourself. If you have some simple disorder, I can cure it easily. But I've little interest in treating easy cases because doctors can cure them, too. If you know of someone with a serious disorder - one beyond the help of doctors, please bring them to me, or if they are not able to come to me, I can visit them.

But as you can appreciate, I am a busy man - with several scripts to complete for a couple of theatre companies in time for next month's productions. So I am unable to deal with many patients but, to test my palm-healing ability, I will treat a single patient suffering from a serious complaint."

 Copyright © James Deacon

 

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USUI-SENSEI AND REIKI
or The terms Reiki, Reiho, and Reiki Ryoho revisited
Copyright © 2006 James Deacon

Usui-sensei did not re-discover 'Reiki' - nor did he create or develop 'Reiki' ...

What Usui-sensei did was to create/develop a system of spiritual practice - the primary purpose of which, it seems, was to act as a medium for (incrementally) sharing with others the actual transformative phenomenon he himself had experienced during his now-legendary meditation on Kurama Yama.

Yet he did not call this spiritual practice 'Reiki'

We need to remember that our useage of the word Reiki - to identify the system developed by Usui-sensei - is a very modern, western, mis-application of the term. Likewise, our use of the word as a verb, indicating the actual performance of a treatment.

[Also, the modern understanding of Reiki (i.e the phenomenon itself) as 'energy' may be somewhat different to the understanding Usui-sensei had]

So if Usui-sensei's spiritual practice was not called ‘Reiki', what was it called then?

Well, some would have us believe it was called "Usui Teate", others, "Usui Do".

However, the only solid source of information we have [and I use the word ‘solid' in a very literal sense - I refer to the Memorial stone which stands at the side of Usui-sensei's tomb], disagrees with both these suggestions.

The title of the inscription on the Usui memorial clearly identifies Usui-sensei as the founder of 'Reiho'.

Now while some folk have attempted to make us believe that 'Reiho' was a contraction - a shorthand version - of the phrase 'Reiki Ryoho', it seems this is quite incorrect.

'Reiho' actually refers to a 'Spiritual method' - in this case: Usui's spiritual method: Usui Reiho

Yet, the spiritual practice: this ‘spiritual method' developed by Usui-sensei - whether it was part of the original intention or not- was also perceived to awaken in the individual, strong therapeutic abilities.

And this therapeutic aspect of the practice (i.e. what we commonly refer to as ‘Reiki') was identified by the name Usui Reiki Ryoho

or: Usui's ‘Reiki' healing method
So, what exactly is ‘Reiki' (in this context)?

Many people still incorrectly state that 'Reiki' translates as 'universal energy'
- and it must be said that the other common translation: 'Spiritual energy', while perhaps moving far more in the right direction is, it seems, still not quite correct

There are many words in Japanese that may be described as ‘ki-words' - compound-words formed by adding the familiar ‘ki' (as in Rei-ki ) to the end of another word. Examples include: genki, inki, and tenki.

Unfortunately, if we attempt to translate such compound-words by simply translating and combining the meanings of the two individual original words, this will not necessarily give us an accurate translation of the compound-word itself.

Let us take, for example, the word tenki - as a stand-alone, ten signifies heaven, or sky. Ki is of course most commonly translated as spirit, energy (or feeling).

So the compound tenki would therefore perhaps mean:
"Heavenly Spirit"?
or maybe
"Heaven Energy" (as opposed to Earth Energy)?
Well actually it simply means: Weather!

Likewise, combining the literal meanings of the two parts of the compound ‘Reiki' does not really give us a truly accurate understanding of the compound itself.

Ongoing research would suggest that Reiki - as the term is used in the name Usui Reiki Ryoho - more immediately translates simply as ‘spirit' or 'spiritual'; thus Usui Reiki Ryoho translates most clearly as: Usui's spiritual healing-method

In certain usage, the kanji-pair used to write Reiki can indicate something like 'spiritual essence' or 'spiritual influence'

As the term Reiki is used in the name Usui Reiki Ryoho, there is not necessarily any direct reference to ‘energy' - in this context, the ki part of the compound would simply seem to speak to the dynamic - the effect of spirit in action.

As stated above, Usui-sensei did not re-discover, or for that matter create or develop, something called 'Reiki' ...

Nor did he re-discover or create/invent/develop ‘Reiki Ryoho'...

Simply meaning 'Spiritual Healing (Method)', the term ‘Reiki Ryoho' had apparently been used by various people in connection with their own particular therapeutic practices.

For example, in 1919, a therapist named M. Kawakami published a book entitled: Reiki Ryoho To Sono Koka (Spiritual Healing & Its Effects); and Fumio Ogawa tells us that a Mr Daiseido Tanaka also practiced his own particular method of ‘Reiki Ryoho', prior to Usui-sensei developing his Spiritual Healing Method.

Usui-sensei did not invent ‘Reiki Ryoho'. What he actually created was 'Usui Reiki Ryoho'.
It would seem that what he created was named Usui Reiki Ryoho out of a need to differentiate between it and the Reiki Ryoho practiced by other Spiritual Healers of the time. Apparently there were also other healers who referred to their practice as Shinrei Ryoho and research would seem to suggest that the terms Reiki Ryoho and Shinrei Ryoho are interchangeable expressions. - - the terms Reiki and Shinrei both translating as ‘spiritual'.

The term Reiki also appears in the philosophy of the Omoto Kyo spiritual group (who were particularly influential during the early 20thC) - indicating, not 'energy' per se but rather the energetic-effect of the innermost aspect of the human spirit.

Omoto Kyo talks of the ichirei ['one spirit'] - that spark of the divine that resides in everything living thing in creation.
This ichirei [- the 'rei' here, indicating spirit, is the same rei as in Reiki] - this spiritual essence - is seen to manifest more profoundly in higher lifeforms.
As perceived in human beings, the divine spark is referred to as nao hi - ‘spiritual presence' or ‘spirit direct (from Kami)'
Nao hi is "... the simplest, purest, innermost aspect of the human spirit, embodying supreme good and ultimate beauty....That which is able to save your body and soul ..."
and Reiki can be seen as ‘the manifest effect of Nao hi in action.

[It is also interesting to note that the kanji for nao hi can also be read as choku rei - without any change or loss in meaning...]

Notes:In the Reiki Ryoho Hikkei (Treatment Companion/Guide), Usui-sensei is quoted as saying that he did not go in search of special powers
This term is used in the Hikkei
The whole concept of Reiki being understood to refer to "universal/life-force energy" (i.e. in the sense of an energy outside of ourself) seems to really be something quite modern - a Western conceptualisation that was imported into Japan in the 1980's.
In a diary entry dated Dec. 10 1935, Takata-sensei wrote about Reiki being:
"...Energy within oneself " - and also about how we must "...meditate to let the "Energy" come out from within." Concerning the "Energy" she said: "It lies in the bottom of your stomach about 2 in. below the navel."
This would seem to be a very different view of Reiki from that commonly held by many people today...

Again in the Hikkei, Usui-sensei is quoted as saying that he "did not receive this method from anyone else"

Compare with this quote from the Hikkei: "Every living, breathing being possesses the spiritual ability to heal. This is true of plants, animals, fish and insects, but it is humans - the culmination of creation - who possess the greatest power. Our method is a practical manifestation of this power."

 

seedling.jpg

  "A human being is part of a whole, called by us the ‘Universe' -a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts, and feelings, as something separated from the rest-a kind of optical delusion of his consciousness.

This delusion is a kind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for a few persons nearest us.

Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circles of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty." 

Einstein

 

 The Paradoxical Commandments 

People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centered.
Love them anyway.
If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Do good anyway.
If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies.
Succeed anyway.
The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow.
Do good anyway.
Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.
Be honest and frank anyway.
The biggest men and women with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest men and women with the smallest minds.
Think big anyway.
People favor underdogs but follow only top dogs.
Fight for a few underdogs anyway.
What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build anyway.
People really need help but may attack you if you do help them.
Help people anyway.
Give the world the best you have and you'll get kicked in the teeth.
Give the world the best you have anyway.
 
   Dr. Kent M. Keith

 

 Below is a link to James Deacon`s website AETW. Well worth a visit and bookmark.

James Deacon: My Ongoing Research into the Origins, History & Evolution of the Japanese Method of Spiritual & Therapeutic Energy-work commonly known as REIKI.



For more on opening up to Reiki CLICK HERE

 

The meditation track below is a bi-naurial beats tones recording.

This means that it is designed to be listened to with headphones. Done this way the tones will slow down your brainwaves, as happens with meditation - so aiding you on your path.

These recordings must not be listened to whilst driving or operating machinery because they will make you less alert. 

Meditation Track

The Tracks below give
  an overview of Reiki

Track 1

Track 2

Track 3

Track 4

Track 5

Track 6

Track 7

Track 8

Track 9

Track 10

Track 11

Track 12

Track 13

Usui self treatment





 

The following information is with thanks to James Deacon for the abundance of information and resources available on his website which is a testament to his dedication and thoroughness.


SCANNING - BYOSEN REIKAN HO

Byosen Reikan Ho is a technique somewhat similar to the scanning practices taught in some 'western' lineage Reiki styles.

Byosen is concerned with the 'energetic sensation' perceived at areas of dis-harmony or dis-ease.

Whenever there is a dis-ease, dis-harmony or dis-order in a person's energetic makeup (whether or not the individual is aware of it) there will always be an accompanying 'energetic sensation', referred to as hibiki ('resonance') - providing one is aware of what to look for - and providing one has developed the necessary sensitivity skills to perceive it.

Thus, it is theoretically possible to identify and treat such imbalances before the physical symptoms of the dis-order even have a chance to manifest.

And at the other end of the spectrum, it is possible to determine whether or not the patient is really 'cured', as, even when the outward symptoms of a dis-order have been alleviated, the continued presence of hibiki would indicate the likelihood of the dis-order reoccurring in the future.

In an ideal world - it is said that a seasoned practitioner can infer from the hibiki the cause, current status, and amount of treatment required to heal the dis-ease.)

But Byosen is not a diagnostic technique per se, rather is a method of locating and treating the source of illness.

The precise nature of the sensations experienced varies from one person to another and is also dependent on the nature of the manifesting dis-harmony or dis-ease.

Amongst possible sensations picked up by the practitioner may be: pulsing, heat, coolness, 'flatness', numbness, pain, 'prickliness', tingling, 'pulling', etc.

To complicate matters somewhat hibiki sensations, while commonly experienced at the topical site of the person's dis-ease, may actually be experienced in a different area of the body entirely.

For example, a dis-harmony in the stomach may produce hibiki in the forehead, respiratory problems might be indicated by hibiki on the backs of the hands, etc.

For this reason, in order to use Byosen effectively, many people suggest that the practitioner have at least a basic grounding in some form of 'meridian'-based diagnostic-treatment theory as expounded by various practices of TJM/TCM (Traditional Japanese / Chinese Medicine).

Formal Byosen Ho begins with the practitioner performing gassho and praying /intending that the Reiki phenomenon will flow freely through them for the healing and wellness of the client.

Then, beginning at the head and working down the body, the practitioner slowly starts to scan with their hands, searching out the energetic sensations indicative of areas in need of Reiki treatment.

Some hibiki and their common significance

[Note: the intensity of the stimulus perceived can often reflect the severity/depth of the problem]:

Attraction generally signifies a need for treatment at the area of pull

Repulsion indicates a probable long-standing blockage or inhibition of energy flow - something which may take a considerable amount of treatment to alleviate

Pain often indicates an excess or buildup of energy in the given area (due to a blockage, etc). Sharp pain is sometimes considered to be a sign that the 'pressure' in the given area is causing a negative effect elsewhere in the system

Tingling frequently signifies an area of inflammation

Heat sensations in the therapist's hands are indicative of Reiki being 'drawn' by the client

Coldness signifies a deficit of energy in the area (or at least a suppression of energy) - due to blockage,etc

Flux/Flow indicates a positive, balanced state - which will nonetheless still benefit from receiving treatment

Copyright © James Deacon 

 

 

How Takata Practised and Taught Reiki:  

click HERE for article

 .
Self Healing - Mentally, Emotionally, Spiritually

One person`s realisation on the difference between the complementary therapy Reiki and the original Reiki(Frank Stiene).

When I went to Japan and started to train with Japanese people and teachers, I came to the discovery that there was a lot of self-practice within the system of Reiki, which actually never really made it to the West. So my interest became very much in teaching this to people - that in essence, traditionally, the system of Reiki was a spiritual practice. In that spiritual practice you would really look after yourself - working with meditations, etc. I will get to that in a minute. And then the side effect of that, was hands on healing. So the hands on healing was only seen as a side effect of your spiritual practice, which meant it was quite a difficult practice traditionally.
At that time in Japan, there were people who taught hands on healing - what they called palm healing. There were groups in Japan who had 50,000 students, who did some form of palm healing. So Mikao Usui had a very small group of people in comparison- nowadays it is practiced all over the world and it is amazing that it actually started so small. At the time of Mikao Usui, it is said that it was much more well known that he was teaching a spiritual practice.

Looking at the Japanese names for the teachings: Shoden means level one - Shoden is the beginner's teachings. In the beginner's teachings, this is where we first start to apply the teachings for ourselves. At this level Usui would give you the precepts and a simple meditation and maybe a meditation practice that would focus on the energy center, called the hara or tanden, which is located below your belly button. And you would go home and you would practice that. You would go home and work with the precepts and ponder them. Why should I not get angry, why not worry, why be compassionate to myself and other people. So by working with them you could really start to work on pealing some layers away.

After you practiced with that you would maybe begin Reiki II. Reiki II in Japanese is called Okuden. And Okuden in Japanese means inner teachings or hidden teachings. Now it doesn't mean it was hidden somewhere behind this door, or that it was in something and we had to discover it.

But it meant we had to find what was hidden inside ourselves. So Okuden - meaning hidden or inner teachings - also reflected that it was a self development practice. It was something we had to look for inside of ourselves.

So the tools traditionally taught in Okuden were the symbols and the mantras. They were not used externally like we do now - nowadays we might do a treatment on someone and might draw the symbols over a person or might use them in the room or whatever. But traditionally it was used for your own practice. You would meditate and work with these tools to strip away the layers so that you would find what is hidden within yourself. You might ask what do you find - what do you find hidden inside of yourself? Traditionally, what was hidden inside of yourself was what they call in Japanese your 'true nature' or your 'original nature'.

So when we look at level three or the Reiki Master teacher level or whatever we might call it, traditionally it was called Shinpiden. And Shinpiden if you translate it is "mystery teachings" and that is where you discover what is hidden inside of yourself and you realize the mystery of life. The mystery of why I am here in this world. What is my connection with people around me. What is my connection with the natural elements around me. In Reiki III you work with a symbol and mantra which when translated from Japanese means The Great Bright Light. When we strip away all our layers, we discover that we are this Great Bright Light.

We are all a beautiful Great Bright Light, but most of the time we don't see it. We put all these layers over it and we don't recognize it. When we wake up in the morning, we may say I am tired, I am getting grey, I have to go to work today, or I have to talk to this or that person - all the stuff we do during the day. We put layers and layers of stuff over this Great Bright Light. Usui created the system where the more you would take away these layers from yourself, the more you would discover this beautiful Bright Light within yourself. And it was not something that was acquired from the outside. The beautiful Bright Light is already inside of you. But most of the time we don't see it.

So, the system of Reiki is that you would discover the Bright Light within yourself and the more you discover it within yourself, the more you can share the Bright Light with other people.

Also there is very much a distinction between Reiki and the system of Reiki. Reiki means spiritual energy or sometimes we have translated it in modern English to mean universal energy. We all consist of universal energy. We all can work with energy in one way or another. We all know that if you have a headache and you put your hand on your head, it feels a lot better. If you have a tummy ache and you put your hands on your tummy, it feels a bit better. Or if your friend does not feel well and you put your arm around your friend, your friend feels a little bit better. We all communicate energetically already. But we can enhance it, we can strip away these layers so that we become brighter or clearer.

Traditionally, Reiki means 'spiritual energy' (which we all consist of) and then we have the system of Reiki. And the system of Reiki consists of five elements: Precepts, Meditations, Hands on healing for yourself and others, Symbols and mantras, and the Attunement. When you work with these five elements, you are stripping away layers and you connect deeper and deeper to your spiritual energy or, if you like, to your Reiki.

A lot of hospitals have volunteer programs for hands on healing or Reiki. And I think it is fantastic. It is really important for people who work in hospitals - you smell disinfectants, you see people crying, all sorts of stuff happening there - it is so important that you keep your own energy clear. Every day we have stuff coming towards us. You switch on a television, you read the newspaper, something happens in the street or the shopping mall or in your family. So we need to keep the energy clear. And we can do that with these five elements. The stronger and clearer our energy becomes and the more we connect to our true nature - this beautiful Bright Light - the more we can really share that with other people and the less we are bothered by these outer influences.

Our light is covered - by our worries, our fears, our anger, all that kind of stuff. But if I suddenly switch on this big light, what is inside me already, then all that anger and worry starts to disappear. Then I can share that much easier with other people.

What we need to be aware of is that the system of Reiki is a self-development practice. The more you practice on yourself, the easier it becomes to work on other people. It is as simple as that. We can make up lots of stories about it, but what it comes down to is that it is very simple and basic in reality.

The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant.
 We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift.

 

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  The Gokai

The Five 'Principles', 'Precepts' or 'Ideals' of Usui Reiki

"The secret method of inviting blessings, the spiritual medicine of many illnesses (Shôfuku no hihô, Manbyo no rei yaku)

Just for today (Kyo dake wa):

Don't get angry
 (Okoru na*)

Don't worry
 (Shinpai su na)

Be grateful
 (Kansha shite)

Work diligently
 (Gyo wo hage me)

Be kind to others
 (Hito ni shinsetsu ni)

Mornings and evenings sit in the gassho position and repeat these
words out loud and in your heart (Asa you gassho shite kokoro ni nenji kuchi ni tonaeyo)

For the improvement of mind and body (Shin shin kaizen)

Usui Spiritual Healing Method (Usui Reiki Ryoho)
The founder, Mikao Usui (Chossô, Usui Mikao)
"

The Significance of the Gokai

Many people believe that the gokai - the Five Principles or Precepts - are an important key to the system that is Usui Reiki Ryoho.

Perhaps it is that they are not just 'important' but rather 'VITAL' - that they are the very CORE of Usui-sensei's system - that the Precepts themselves are: 
"The secret method of inviting blessings, the spiritual medicine of many illnesses" spoken of in the introductory statement which comes directly before the Precepts themselves.

The Precepts themselves are 'keys' or strategies to apply to life.

"Mornings and evenings..."

The 'user instructions' presented with the formal Japanese version of the principles (at the top of this page) tell us:

"Mornings and evenings sit in the gassho position and repeat these words out loud and in your heart"

And as a result, many people seem to consider the gokai as being something to only use in this way - seeing them simply as a set of 'positive-thinking' affirmations - or alternatively, as some form of, as it were, 'magic incantation'.

Yes, we may practice gokai sansho (repeating the five principles three times) both on rising and on going to bed - and this can help to imprint them on our subconscious - but I feel too much emphasis is placed on chanting them, and possibly not enough on living by them.

Stronger feeling when recited in English or Japanese?

Some people claim to get a stronger feeling whilst reciting one paraphrased English (or other language) version of the principles; yet others, while reciting the 'formal' Japanese version; but in my opinion, the real power of the gokai only truly manifests in the instances of their application in the midst of daily life.


Examples of some of the slightly different paraphrased translations of each of the five principles.

Just for today [i.e. focus in the here-and-now]:

Principle 1 has been variously stated as:
Do not anger
Don't get angry
Thou shall not anger
I will not be angry
I will let go of anger

Principle 2 has been variously stated as:
Do not worry
Don't be anxious
Thou shall not worry
I will not worry
I will let go of worry

Principle 3 has been variously stated as:
Be grateful
Show appreciation
Thou shall be grateful for the many blessings
I will give thanks for my many blessings
I will count my many blessings
Express your thanks
Show gratitude to every living thing
Honor your parents, teachers and elders

Principle 4 has been variously stated as:
Work hard
Study diligently
Devote yourself to your work
Earn thy livelihood with honest labor
I will do my work honestly
Be diligent in your business

Principle 5 has been variously stated as:
Be kind to people
Be kind to others
Be kind to thy neighbors
I will be kind to every living thing
I will be kind to every living creature
Show compassion to every living thing

Copyright © James Deacon

 

.

 .
'Holding the Healing Space'
.
.This refers to the whole process of facilitating the client's 'opportunity for healing' - the creating and maintaining ('holding') of a suitable environment - not just the physical environment but also (and more importantly) the emotional and energetic 'environment': a safe and relaxing psychological 'inner space' in which the individual can heal themself with Reiki's assistance.

So essentially it involves "whatever it takes" for that particular session with that particular client. But don't get too hung up on 'bells and whistles'.

Can you really imagine Usui-sensei doing smudging, etc
While the client is with us, the atmosphere of the room, the sensory stimulus - music, warmth, lighting, fragrance, etc (or lack of it), and the treatment itself - none of it is about what we want/like/consider conducive to healing - rather it is about what the client wants - about what enhances the experience for them. 

Copyright © James Deacon


TANDEN

In the 'Hara System' there is only one Hara

There is commonly confusion here. The concept of 'Hara' often becomes confused with the related concept of 'tanden' (even amongst many who teach the Japanese Reiki styles!)

Hara literally means 'belly' - and is commonly used to refer to the lower part of the abdomen - the area between the navel and the top of the pubic bone. Though it is - more fully - the entire area from the top of the pubic bone up to the base of the sternum (encompassing abdomen and diaphram).

In many Japanese arts (spiritual, therapeutic, martial or creative) the term 'Hara' is often used as a shortened way of referring to 'the tanden that lies in the Hara'

The 'tanden' [more properly called the 'Seiki Tanden' or 'Seika no Itten'] is an energy centre - a focal point, or rather, a focal area - a place of 'energetic convergence', located deep inside the body, in a specific area of the Hara, roughly midway between the navel and the top of the pubic bone (people often say 2 inches [4-5cm] below the navel)

In the more traditional Japanese spiritual, therapeutic, martial and creative arts there is Hara (belly) and there is only one tanden - situated within the Hara. And this one 'Seiki Tanden' - this abdominal centre, is the focal point for all 'dimensions' of energy - personal, spiritual and otherwise.

Ones very life - even ones spirit itself, is seen to reside here.

However, many who now claim to be teaching the Japanese 'Hara System' are actually teaching the Chinese 'Three Jewels' or 'Three Tan Tien' system instead.

You see, in Japan, there are also several spiritual, therapeutic, martial and creative disciplines ( - some , 'imported' - having actually originated in China, others, 'homegrown', yet nonetheless very heavily influenced by Chinese Chi Gung/Qi Gong philosophy) which speak of not one, but three tandens (Chinese:'tan tien' also 'dan tian' ) and their associated Chinese attributes.

In the Chinese system, the 'lower tanden' is identical (position-wise) to the Seika Tanden conceived of in the traditional Japanese philosophy/practice we refer to as 'the hara system' or 'the Way of Hara'

However, the Chinese system posits a second (middle) tanden in the region of the thymus / chest, and a third (upper) tanden in the region of the pineal gland / brow

These two additional tanden have no place in the 'Hara System' - for the simple reason that neither of them are located within the Hara (- even using the term in its broadest sense, i.e. indicating the entire area from the top of the pubic bone up to the base of the sternum)

As mentioned, in the Japanese 'Hara System', Seika Tanden is situated within the Hara - and, under certain circumstances the term 'Hara' may be used to imply this singular tanden.

 Copyright © James Deacon

The Healer's Calling - The Role of Intention

As my healing work led me to a deeper spiritual understanding of myself and my journey and my world around me, I came to realize that my calling as a healing worker, a Reiki practitioner, in any situation, is very different than what I had assumed before. I wasn't being called into that situation to "DO Reiki", or to "Send energy", or to "Provide healing". It is none of those.

As a Reiki practitioner / healing worker in any situation, I am called to be present, in surrender, to the Divine / Nature / True self / Reiki, call it what you may. I am called to be present and let Grace move through me for those involved. That is the calling. Where the results may go, that was not for me to choose, or yearn for, since I don't know realistically what "the highest good" is. Hence, I am called to trust in the Divine / True self / Reiki, and be totally present so that no distortions emerge from my being in the flow of Grace for all concerned in that situation. What flows and follows is purely and solely the outcome of Grace.

This stance, I've noticed, keeps the ego in check, enables me to operate with humility and equanimity. And further, it enables me to operate in a state of acceptance as events unfold, regardless of how those events are judged by the mind and ego.

This is what I've come to understand as the calling of the healing worker in all situations. I now see every healing work opportunity, these days, as an opportunity to practice what I've been referring to as "Active Surrender", the act of simply BEing, or being present to the flow of whatever flows. "Active" because of this reason -- Often, while in the state of BEing, intuitions flow about specific actions that I am meant to take in this regard, and my role is to act on those. "Surrender" because of this reason -- The essence of it all is being present, or in the state of surrender, if you will.

With this incremental realization on the journey, my intentions for healing work have simply turned out to be something like this: "Let me be present to this person and situation, for the highest good". That bears very clear meaning to me now. It is not about the person, the situation or the healing outcomes desired. It is NOTHING at all about all that. It is about me, my state of mind, my willingness to drop out of ego state into the state of the True Self, and simply being present, and trust in the flow that ensues.

This is not trivial or easy to do, and certainly did not come easily for me. The ego definitely attempts to interfere in an effort to control the flow of events and the outcomes. But, at this point in time in my journey, I can only say that the nature of the healing sessions has gotten more amazing than ever before. There is an utter simplicity to it all, in my personal experience. And in this simplicity is the profundity of all there is! And all I have been called to do is to learn to be present, learn to BE rather than DO. That is the path of allowing and witnessing the Highest Good!

To me, all this is further evidence that the system of Reiki is far more than a healing art. It is a path to discover one's True Self, or a spiritual path, if you will!

 Sundar Kadayam



 

 

You must be the change you wish to see in the world - Ghandi 

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