The history of Reiki is fascinating and spans several decades. Let’s explore its origins and development:
- Before Usui Sensei:
- Before Mikao Usui (Usui Sensei) developed his style of Reiki, there were already other styles of Reiki healing being practiced in Japan.
- These included:
- Reikan Tonetsu Ryoho created by Reikaku Ishinuki
- Senshinryu Reiki Ryoho created by Kogetsu Matsubara
- Seido Reishojutsu created by Reisen Oyama.
- In 1914, Matiji Kawakami, a Japanese therapist, created a healing style called Reiki Ryoho and published a book titled “Reiki Healing and Its Effects”.
- Usui Sensei’s mystical experience occurred in March 1922, during which he received the Reiki energy and developed his own style, which he called Usui Reiki Ryoho.
- Interestingly, Usui Sensei’s choice of name indicates that he was aware of the other existing styles of Reiki Ryoho1.
- Dr. Mikao Usui:
- Dr. Mikao Usui, born in 1865, sought a healing method unattached to any specific religion.
- His interest in medicine, psychology, and theology led him to explore healing through the laying on of hands.
- After years of training, he had a spiritual awakening on Mount Kurama in Japan.
- On the twenty-first day of fasting, meditation, and prayer, he saw ancient Sanskrit symbols that inspired the development of Usui Reiki.
- Dr. Usui established a clinic for healing and teaching in Kyoto, where his practice spread2.
- Further Development:
- Dr. Hayashi Mikao Usui, one of Usui Sensei’s students, further developed the Usui system of Reiki.
- He added hand positions to more thoroughly cover the body and refined the attunement process.
- Dr. Hayashi trained several more Reiki Masters, including Hawayo Takata, who played a crucial role in spreading Reiki to the West2.
In summary, Reiki has a rich history that began with Dr. Mikao Usui’s spiritual experience and continues to be practiced worldwide today. Its focus on energy healing and balance has made it a valuable complementary therapy in various settings