The Principles of Reiki

While Reiki is not a religion, for optimum well being in the light of Eastern medical theory that we are a mind-body-spirit unity, it is necessary to live and act in a way that promotes harmony with others. Dr. Mikao Usui recommended that one practice certain simple ethical ideals to promote peace and harmony, which are nearly universal across all cultures.

During a meditation several years after developing Reiki, Dr. Usui decided to add the Reiki Ideals to the practice of Reiki. The Ideals came in part from the five principles of the Meiji emperor of Japan whom Dr. Usui admired.

The Ideals were developed to add spiritual balance to Usui Reiki. Their purpose is to help people realize that healing the spirit by consciously deciding to improve oneself is a necessary part of the Reiki healing experience. In order for the Reiki healing energies to have lasting results, the client must accept responsibility for her or his healing and take an active part in it. Therefore, the Usui system of Reiki is more than the use of the Reiki energy. It must also include an active commitment to improve oneself in order for it to be a complete system.

The ideals are both guidelines for living a gracious life and virtues worthy of practice for their inherent value.

For my sources see: Recommended Reading