Why You Need To Try The Natural Healing Of Reiki

by Reiki Master Jo Fellows

I first heard about Reiki over 20 years ago from a friend when I was struggling with stress brought on by a very heavy workload. She told me,

“After a Reiki session I feel relaxed, rejuvenated and happy. It helps just knowing I am doing something to help.”

So I went along for a treatment. For me it worked, just as it had for her, and I was so impressed that I went on to train as a practitioner myself.

I love that it’s a healthy, non-invasive way to deal with stress and anxiety. For me it has helped to re-balance my bodily and cognitive systems and served as a pain reliever – my regular migraines have disappeared. I believe it is an amazing long-term preventive therapy.

So, what is it and how does it work?

The Japanese word Reiki means ‘Universal Energy’. Eastern medicine has always recognised this energy, which flows through all living things and is vital to well-being. It is known as ‘ki’ in Japan, ‘chi’ in China and ‘prana’ in India. Acupuncture, T’ai chi and Yoga are also based on the free flow of this energy within each of us.

When this energy flows uninterrupted there is balance and harmony within and around us and we experience a sense of well-being.


The system of Reiki was developed in Japan by Mikao Usui, early in the 20th century. It is a holistic and natural energy treatment whereby the practitioner uses the energy flowing through his or her hands in a sequence of positions over the body to bring about deep relaxation.

There are many variations of Reiki, but in essence, Reiki works at bringing us into balance. I believe that Reiki removes energy blockages, detoxifies the body and restores the body's energy field to its natural frequency. It is a tradition that is open to any belief system.

Therapeutic, rather than diagnostic, a Reiki treatment aims to support a client’s self-healing. Benefits reported by recipients include deep relaxation promoting a calm, peaceful sense of well-being on all levels. Research using animals and even bacteria suggests that Reiki has the ability to reverse stress-induced conditions.

The method of receiving a Reiki treatment from a practitioner is simple. The recipient remains clothed and lies on a couch or sits on a chair and relaxes. The practitioner gently places their hands non-intrusively, on or near the body. There is no massage or manipulation and the whole person is treated rather than specific symptoms.

Reiki practitioners are not trained in the diagnosis and will not offer any diagnosis or prognosis. If people are concerned about their symptoms they should see a doctor. 

If you are looking for a suitable practitioner in your area, it is a good idea to visit sites such as the UK Reiki Federation’s (see below) – as all of its members are registered, have undergone the correct training and follow its code of ethics.

Reiki is taught by Reiki Master/Teachers, who have trained in the tradition passed on in person from Master to student. Students go through a process of initiation/attunement to the Reiki energy. They are then able to treat themselves and others, not only from a healing perspective but also as an aid to personal development and spiritual growth.

What can Reiki do for you?

Illness can be a time of great stress. Reiki can help us cope by encouraging relaxation and bringing balance to both mind and emotions. Reiki has been found to be especially beneficial for stress, grief, depression, worry and anxiety. Often, painful conditions are relieved by Reiki, as it promotes deep peace and relaxation within, so easing tension.

Reiki’s gentle energy is easily adapted to most medical conditions and may be used safely by people of all ages, including the newborn, pregnant mothers, surgical patients, the frail and the elderly, in any situation.

Being complementary, Reiki works effectively alongside orthodox healthcare and natural remedies, expanding treatment options. Reiki can enhance everyday living, and regular sessions may help to promote the development of a healthier, more resourceful state of being.

Jo Fellows is an Affiliated Member of The Isbourne. Join Jo for one of her Reiki courses or experience the power of Reiki with one-on-one treatments.

For more information, visit Jo's tutor profile