Reiki means "Universal Life Energy" and is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation by promoting healing.  This healing art was discovered in the early 1900's by Dr. Mikao Usui.  REI means Universal (spiritual wisdom) and has come to be accepted as the understanding of a deeper knowledge of spiritual consciousness that comes from the connection to God/Divine through the higher self.  KI means Life Energy (a.k.a. chi) and is known as the vital life force or universal life force that is present in all living things and emanates outward from the inner being.

Reiki does not cure any specific problem but works on the entire self to promote balance and an overall sense of well-being.   

What to expect during a Reiki treatment

A Reiki session usually lasts about one hour.  It consists of the recipient lying on a treatment table fully clothed with soothing music playing in a relaxing and safe environment.  The practitioner's hands will be placed either on or just above the  body and move downward from the head to the feet.  The recipient may experience a number of sensations such as heat, throbbing, tingling or pulsating.  Every experience with Reiki is unique.   
One important aspect of the Reiki approach is that the recipient  plays a positive part in the treatment.  Your desire to be healed and being open to the possibility that Reiki may help you, ensures that you will always receive some kind of benefit.  Most important is that you receive enough treatments, either through a Reiki practitioner or through self treatment, to heal the real cause of your problem, which usually resides at the level of the mind, emotion and spirit.  We all can learn how to do Shamballa for ourselves, our families and friends.  A Reiki treatment usually lasts about an hour.
 
The benefits of Reiki

- Reiki supports the body's ability to heal itself naturally and within its time.
- There is a re-energizing of the body and soul and this can re-establish a connection to many areas of your life.
- Reiki promotes well-being on all levels: mental, emotional, physical and spiritual.
- Reiki loosens up any blocked energy and cleanses the body of toxins encouraging healing.     
- Reiki adjusts to meet your needs so you will always receive the amount that is just right for you.     
- Reiki encourages the ability to keep a sense of balance and harmony.  There needs to be an exchange of energy when Reiki is given: this can be in the form of time given  back,  money or a gift but it must be present.
- Reiki can help to speed the healing process.
- Reiki is for everyone; it cannot cause any harm since it is a very gentle healing force.