Reiki Myths: True or False?

What is Reiki?

It’s a common form of treatment, yet this body-based therapy is shrouded in myth and uncertainty for many people.

So what do you know about Reiki? We sat down with therapist Cheryl Hughes to ask a few basic questions.

True or False – Reiki, meaning ‘spiritual energy,’ originates from a Japanese system developed in the 1900s.

True. Reiki is a Japanese system that has been around in different forms since the early 20th century. Our modern conception of Reiki was developed and popularized by Mikao Usui in 1922.

True or False – Reiki is a “new-age” practice and has little scientific backing.

We couldn’t disagree with you more. Admittedly, all Reiki practitioners do not come equal, but then again, when can that ever be guaranteed? With the spread of Reiki into the Western hemisphere in the early 1980’s, there have been various interpretations and modifications of the system, some less legitimate than others. Despite this, an adept Reiki practitioner will hold knowledge of the traditional Japanese system and should be able to share that knowledge with you.

True or False – Reiki can help with anxiety.

True! Reiki offers great benefits for those whose anxiety makes it hard to engage in mindfulness. Starting a therapy session with a brief Reiki treatment can help people feel calm in the moment and bring them into a better state for productive work.

True or False – Reiki is very complicated.

False. Reiki is not magic. It is not a gift bestowed to the few. In fact, Reiki energy is accessible to anyone and everyone. You must develop the resolve to open yourself up to it. We should mention that although Reiki energy is in everyone, to practice the Reiki system therapeutically one should be trained.

True or False – Reiki’s effects can be felt immediately.

True! Cheryl’s clients often feel like they’ve just had a good massage, and some even fall asleep during treatment. But most importantly, the healing power of Reiki extends beyond a single therapeutic session, and helps clear negative energy and create room for growth in the long term.