The term Reiki is a Japanese word (REI means universal, and KI means energy) and refers to the scope and nature of this practice, so Reiki can be understood as universal life energy. It is considered an alternative therapy that seeks to achieve healing or balance through the practitioner’s laying on of hands to channel this universal energy.

Reiki is a natural harmonization system that uses Universal Life Energy, which allows for the treatment of physical and mental illnesses and imbalances.

Mikao Usui, a Japanese Buddhist monk, developed Reiki during a spiritual retreat in the mid-19th century, although he always maintained that he merely “rediscovered” an ancient healing technique that had existed for a long time but had been forgotten.

The Reiki method is based on the Hindu belief that the correct flow of Life Energy through the different chakras ensures good health in the body. According to this belief, the malfunction or blockage of energy in one or more chakras would be what causes or aggravates poor health, leading to illnesses and disorders.

The method consists of directing Reiki energy to the chakras of a patient (the recipient), unblocking them and enhancing the recipient’s recovery process. Reiki balances and restores the body’s energy and promotes its ability to heal itself, harmonizing both body and mind.

On a psychological level, Reiki immerses the patient in a deep state of relaxation and peace, which is very beneficial in cases of depression or stress and allows for a deeper understanding of the mental processes that keep us bound to our problems.

On a physical level, Reiki soothes pain, strengthens the immune system, and fortifies the body against illness. Reiki can never cause any harm, as it is the energy of the universe and only flows in the amounts required by the recipient. Reiki cannot replace medical treatment, although it can be used as a complementary therapy.

Recently, Reiki has been practiced at the Ramón y Cajal and 12 de Octubre hospitals in Madrid for cancer patients, and it is also beginning to be practiced in other hospitals in Spain.