The Mysterious Origins of Usui Reiki: Uncovering the Unknown History of a Powerful Healing Practice
- Angela Attar
- Mar 18
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 19
Reiki healing, an ancient Japanese method, has gained immense popularity as a powerful practice for relaxation and well-being. While many have experienced the benefits of this energy healing practice, the origins of Usui Reiki often remain unclear. In this article, we will explore the fascinating history of Usui Reiki, its founder, and the journey of this holistic healing method over time.
The Founder: Mikao Usui
Usui Reiki traces back to its founder, Mikao Usui, who was born in Japan in 1865. A man of deep spiritual curiosity, Usui studied a variety of religious and healing traditions, including Buddhism and Shintoism. His pursuit of knowledge and healing techniques led him on a transformative journey.
During a 21-day retreat on Mount Kurama, Usui experienced a profound spiritual awakening that allowed him to access what he called Reiki energy. This discovery became the foundation of the healing technique we know today. Following this pivotal moment, Usui returned to Tokyo, committed to sharing Reiki with others and supporting their healing journeys.
Understanding Reiki and Its Principles
At its core, Reiki means "universal life energy," an unseen force that flows through all living beings. The practice of Usui Reiki involves connecting with this energy to encourage healing on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.
Reiki practitioners believe that the body has an innate ability to heal itself, but stress, trauma, and negative emotions can create energetic blockages that disrupt this process. Through gentle, hands-on or distant healing techniques, Reiki helps clear these blockages, restoring balance, reducing tension, and promoting inner harmony. Studies have shown that over 70% of participants report significant reductions in stress and anxiety following Reiki sessions.
Usui also instilled five guiding principles into his practice that support this healing process:
Just for today, I will not be angry.
Just for today, I will not worry.
Just for today, I will be grateful.
Just for today, I will do my work honestly.
Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing.
These principles form a foundation of Reiki practice, guiding practitioners to cultivate inner peace, gratitude, and compassion as they support healing for themselves and others.
The Development of Usui Reiki
Following his experience on Mount Kurama, Usui began teaching Reiki in Tokyo. In 1922, he established the first Reiki clinic, where many received treatments and learned the healing art. His teachings attracted numerous students, eager to understand the principles behind this holistic approach.
To guide his students, Usui introduced a structured system that included specific hand placements and sacred Reiki symbols. These symbols act as tools to focus energy and enhance healing. His teachings also emphasised self-development and ethical conduct, making Reiki not just a healing technique but a spiritual path. By the time of his passing in 1926, Usui had taught thousands, ensuring the continuation of his legacy.
The Global Spread of Usui Reiki
After Usui’s passing, one of his students, Chujiro Hayashi, refined and organised Reiki training methods, helping to shape the practice as it is taught today. Reiki then expanded beyond Japan, largely due to the efforts of Hawayo Takata, an American woman who learned Reiki from Hayashi and introduced it to the West in the 1930s. Takata trained hundreds of practitioners, solidifying Reiki’s presence across North America and beyond.
Today, Reiki is widely recognised as an effective complementary therapy for stress reduction and overall wellness. Many people turn to Reiki to support physical healing, emotional balance, and spiritual growth. Research suggests that approximately 90% of Reiki recipients experience deep relaxation and relief from chronic pain, highlighting the impact of this powerful energy work.
Practitioners of Usui Reiki often concentrate on chakra clearing and aura cleansing. This can lead to significant personal changes and improvements in overall well-being. The adaptable nature of Reiki allows it to be practiced in various settings, from one-on-one sessions to distance sessions to group workshops, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals.
The Enduring Legacy of Mikao Usui
Mikao Usui's teachings still inspire countless practitioners and students worldwide. His focus on self-healing and spiritual development resonates deeply with those pursuing wellness. Many Reiki practitioners honour Usui’s five guiding principles, creating a supportive atmosphere of kindness, gratitude, and awareness in their practice.
By exploring the history of Usui Reiki, individuals can appreciate the transformative nature of this ancient healing art. Engaging with Reiki principles encourages active participation in one’s own healing process, empowering individuals to find balance in both body and mind.
A Journey Towards Healing
The story of Usui Reiki illustrates the power of human curiosity and the quest for healing. From Mikao Usui's spiritual revelation to its current worldwide presence, Reiki offers a chance for individuals to explore their energy and potential for healing. As more individuals seek alternative therapies, Usui Reiki acts as a guiding light, reminding us of our connection to all living things.
If you’re drawn to Reiki’s healing potential, why not experience it for yourself? My practice has evolved beyond traditional Usui Reiki into a deeply transformative approach - Kabbalistic Reiki Healing.
Kabbalistic Reiki Healing blends the ancient Divine wisdom of Kabbalah, the healing energy of Usui Reiki, and the assistance of the Angelic realm. This unique fusion not only clears energetic blockages but also works on deep soul correction, known as Tikun HaNefesh. Clients have described experiencing profound shifts, sensing angelic presence, and feeling as though multiple hands were working on them simultaneously.
During a session, I incorporate sacred Kabbalistic techniques, intuitive guidance, and an in-depth energy clearing process to help restore harmony and well-being on all levels. Whether you seek emotional balance, spiritual growth, or physical relief, Kabbalistic Reiki offers a deeply sacred and transformative experience.
Curious to try it? I invite you to book a Kabbalistic Reiki Healing session and feel the difference for yourself. New clients can enjoy 50% off their first session with my Try Reiki Offer. Take this opportunity to embark on a journey of healing, alignment, and renewal.
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