The word Reiki (pronounced Ray-key) is a Japanese word meaning universal (rei) life energy (ki). It is a form of spiritual healing that has its roots in ancient Tibetan Buddhism. The method was thought to have been lost until it was rediscovered and developed in Japan during the 1800s by Dr Mikao Usui, a theologian who studied the secrets of Christ's healing powers.

Reiki is a simple yet powerful way of promoting emotional and physical harmony. It is a form of healing in which the practitioner places their hands in a series of positions over or on your body, to transmit the universal life energy, Ki. This energy is thought to work at an atomic level, helping to boost the rate at which your molecules vibrate. The energy at which your body vibrates is thought to be low when you are under stress or experiencing physical or emotional illness. Reiki helps to speed up your vibrational rate so your body recovers its normal state of physical and emotional health.

At the beginning of a standard treatment, which takes 60 to 90 minutes, you are asked to formulate your intent by saying what you wish the practitioner to treat. While you are lying or sitting comfortably, the practitioner holds their hands over or on your fully clothed body in 12 basic positions – four on the head, four on the front of your body, and four on your back. The practitioner holds each position for around five minutes each to balance your chakras (energy centres). Your body absorbs only as much Reiki energy as it needs and the flow of energy is sometimes felt as a mild tingling, warmth or coolness.

Reiki can be used to help treat a number of health problems, including stress, low energy levels, tiredness, headache, pain, high blood pressure, constipation, mood changes, anxiety, insomnia and other emotional problems. The benefits of treatment are increased by resting afterwards and drinking plenty of water to help you detox. Regular treatment helps to ensure efficient elimination of toxins, better circulation, harmonised energy levels and a stable emotional and spiritual outlook on life. Reiki can unblock and heal past hurts and wounds. It can help you regain a sense of control and balance in your life, so you can meet challenges with confidence and calm. Most people experience a deep sense of relaxation, peace and well-being when receiving treatment.

Channelling also clears the practitioners' own energy blocks to increase their strength and spiritual growth. In order to attune themselves to universal energy, a practitioner visualises ancient, secret symbols, which are revealed to them in three stages during their training, which takes many years. Once an adept has reached a certain level of ability, they become a Reiki Master and are able to initiate/attune other students in the method.

Reiki is increasingly used in complementary therapy centres, GP surgeries, hospitals, hospices and in care of the elderly facilities. For more information, visit: www.reikifed.co.uk and www.reikiassociation.org.uk.