Reiki is a spiritual practice and healing art. Reiki, as we know it today, stems from the early 1900s. It is recorded that through study, research and meditation a Japanese man Mikao Usui had an experience of empowerment that led to the development of Reiki as a healing system. Usui devoted the rest of his life to practising and teaching this art of living and healing.
Over time the system of Reiki healing developed by Mikao Usui has evolved, or been changed, by subsequent teachers. Today a number of different forms of Reiki are practised worldwide. A common element of many forms of Reiki is a set of principles or precepts. While there are variationsin the expression and interpretation of the precepts they are all based on the original teachings of Mikao Usui.
"The true purpose of the Reiki method is to correct the heart-mind, keep the body fit, and lead a happy life using the spiritual capabilities humans are endowed with since birth."
... Recite the five precepts morning and evening, and keep them in one's heart. The five precepts are:
- Today, throughout the entire day,
- Do not become angry
- Worry about nothing
- Express one's gratitude
- Be diligent in work
- Be kind to others
Excerpt from the translation on a monument to Mikao Usui at the Seihoji Temple in Tokyo.
