Reiki History

Dr. Mikao Usui (1865-1926) after many years of study discovered this form of healing practice. He discovered a method of accessing and using this healing energy and how to pass the ability to others. Usui was a scholar taught in a seminary, travelled extensively and learnt other languages. This way he could study both Christian and Buddhist scriptures and

Sanskrit Sutras. He ended up in a Zen Buddhist monastery where he chose to find the answers he was seeking. He did a 21 day fast and meditation up Mount Kumara. On the last day

of his retreat he was struck by a great light and saw sacred symbols. He acquired a deep understanding, spiritual empowerment and enlightenment. He rushed down the mountain with his knowledge and excitement and hurt his foot in his haste. He bent down to tend to his foot, miraculously the pain stopped and he was healed. Usui then realised that he had discovered the healing power that he had been searching for.

This knowledge was passed on to Dr. Chujiro Hayashi (1879-1940) who opened a Reiki clinic in Japan. Hawayo Takata (1900-1980) came for treatment of her cancer to this clinic and was so impressed with the results that she pleaded to be taught this healing. As she was a woman it took much persuasion but eventually Hayashi agreed to teach her. Takata brought these healing

principles back to Hawaii and spread throughout USA and Canada and the Western world.

It is not very easy to write about the history of Reiki since there seem to be a lot of different versions and translations of available information. One reason being that the Japanese written language leaves itself open for a subjective interpretation from the reader. What is true and what is not I have no way of confirming as I must rely on the accuracy of information and translations from others. After extensive research I am satisfied that this information is fairly accurate.