THE REIKI STORY

Whilst the origin of Reiki healing remains disputed, it was re(discovered) by Mikao Usui, a Japanese Buddhist monk and spiritual teacher, around 1922. Thus, the story of Reiki's origin is often attributed to Usui's spiritual quest for healing and enlightenment. According to the traditional narrative, Usui embarked on a 21-day meditation and fasting retreat on Mount Kurama, seeking spiritual insights and the ability to heal. It is during this period that he is said to have experienced a profound spiritual awakening and gained the knowledge of Reiki, a healing energy that could be channeled through the hands. After his experience on Mount Kurama, Usui began practicing and teaching Reiki in Japan. His teachings spread, and Reiki eventually made its way to the Western world. Hawayo Takata, a Japanese-American woman, played a significant role in introducing Reiki to the West. She received Reiki training in Japan and later brought it to Hawaii in the 1930s. Takata is often credited with popularizing Reiki outside of Japan. Today, Reiki has become a widely practiced form of alternative therapy and holistic healing around the world. Various styles and lineages of Reiki have since emerged, and practitioners undergo training and certification in different levels, with the Master level being the highest, in a quest to bring healing to the masses.