Reiki is a method of healing that transfer’s energy from the practitioner to  the patient. It is Japanese in origin. It was introduced to the west in the 20th century by a Japanese lady called Mrs Hawayo Takata. The word Reiki cannot be exactly translated into English. If we break the word down we get Rei and ki.

The English translation
Rei..........Universal
Ki ...........Life force energy
 
The Japanese translation
Rei.........Departed, spirit, ghost, soul, miraculous, sacred, divine.
Ki.......... Mysterious atmosphere, gas, vapour.
 
The energy that is talked about here is a real energy that can be manipulated and felt and used. Just like air can. We breathe in air and we breathe out air and it is the same for the Ki energy. We all experience this energy as part of our natural being every day of our lives.

Ki energy is a subtle energy that is thought to exist in all living things. It is a subtle energy that exists outside of ourselves and we take it into ourselves unconsciously. However we can also take this energy into ourselves consciously also, as we do when we breathe in air. We absorb this energy through our skin as well as taking it in through our noses.

Other words for this energy are Qui, Prana, and Psychic amongst others. The Ki energy is not of departed spirits. It is a physical energy that is very much part of our physical lives and bodily function. Traditionally martial arts have used Ki energy to gain an edge over an opponent. Martial arts teach the harnessing and use of this energy to gain extra power that goes beyond the physical.
 
Reiki has five principles
The secret art of inviting happiness,
The miraculous medicine for all diseases.

At least for today:
Do not worry,  
Do not be angry,
Honour your parent’s teachers and elders
Earn your living honestly,
Show gratitude and be kind to all living things. 
 
Every morning and evening, join your hands in meditation and pray with your heart.
State in your mind and chant with your mouth.

For improvement of mind and body.

Usui Reiki Ryōhō.

                                             The founder,
Mikao Usui.