Reiki (pronounced as "ray-key") is a revitalising, healing energy coming from the higher source. The word, in Japanese, means "Universal life force energy". Reiki is basically channeled by an initiated person to others or himself when hands are placed on the body. The energy and the associated system were developed in Japan by Dr. Mikao Usui around 1920.

Traditional eastern medicine suggests that our physical body is surrounded by a big ball of energy which is made up of several layers. These layers are connected to the body by energy vortexes, or chakras, each one associated with an important gland in the body. We also have energy channels running through our bodies and these are called meridians and nadis.

Reiki is the name for a system of healing and spiritual development associated with Mikao Usui (1865 – 1926).

Until recently very little was known about either Mikao Usui or the origins of his system. In the last few years more information has become available about Mikao Usui’s original practice of Reiki and this has allowed the development of a deeper perspective about the system taught in the west.

Reiki I

Reiki I is the first grade of Reiki initiation which opens the person to the universal life energy. In particular the chakras in the hands are opened to allow a powerful flow of energy to take place when the hands are placed on another being with the intention of giving healing.

Reiki I is mainly applicable to the physical level of healing. The students learn how to treat themselves, others, animals and plants. How to scan the body for problem areas and beaming energy.

Reiki I is the foundation for all later degrees and is the hands on part of Reiki which is most commonly used in practical healing situations.

Reiki II

Reiki II enhances the power that a person channels when giving treatments and includes training in distance and mental/emotional healing. The additional capabilities are activated by the use of Reiki symbols. Three Reiki symbols and their uses are taught at the Reiki II level.

Advanced Reiki Training (ART)

Advanced Reiki Training (ART) includes the use of the Reiki Master symbol and a range of specialist techniques including the Reiki meditation, aura cleansing, and the use of a crystal grid.

This degree is not a traditional part of most Reiki systems. It has been added by William Rand as preparation for assuming the full Reiki Master Teacher role or for those who do not wish to become Master teachers but who do wish to extend their range of healing abilities. The training provides additional healing techniques which have been found to be extremely powerful and effective.

Reiki III Master/Teacher

Becoming a Reiki Master and teaching the system is a big step and responsibility. We believe that practitioners must do Reiki daily for self-healing and cleansing. They must have sufficient experience in all previous grades and a strong commitment to healing. They must be experienced in handling difficult cases or unexpected responses. This will normally require a couple of years of practice before becoming a master. The Reiki Master/Teacher training prepares the practitioner for attuning other people to all of the Reiki grades. It also provides guidelines for holding classes and teaching the material.