Reiki (pronounced ray-key) is a gentle yet powerful form of energy healing that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and supports the body’s natural ability to heal. The word “Reiki” comes from two Japanese words: Rei, meaning universal or spiritual energy, and Ki, referring to the life force energy flowing through all living things.

Reiki was founded in 1922 by Mikao Usui, a lay Japanese Buddhist monk. Known for his remarkable healing abilities, Usui called his practice Usui Reiki Ryoho — the Usui style of spiritual energy healing. Over time, many forms of Reiki developed. The style I practice and teach is Usui/Tibetan Reiki, blending the original Usui methods with Tibetan influences.

You don’t have to believe in Reiki to experience its benefits — you simply have to be open to receiving. Reiki works by supporting your body’s innate healing processes, helping to release blocked energy and restore balance. Sessions are performed fully clothed, either seated or lying on a massage table, as the practitioner gently places their hands on or just above the body’s energy centers.

Peer-reviewed clinical trials (including some double-blind, placebo-controlled studies) have explored Reiki’s effects on pain, anxiety, and overall well-being ons.org. Findings suggest potential benefits like reduced pain and stress, improved mood, and better quality of life for patients ons.org. Even the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense have supported Reiki. For example, a VA program in Washington state funded Reiki therapy for veterans with PTSD abmp.com, and military researchers have studied Reiki for pain relief in wounded soldiers usuhs.edu. 

Today, many National Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers incorporate Reiki as part of comprehensive care ons.org. This growing presence of Reiki in mainstream medicine reflects its acceptance as a gentle, low-risk approach to enhancing patient comfort and wellness.