Image
Reiki, meaning ‘universal life energy’, was founded in Japan by Dr Mikao Usui in the late 20th century. It works on the principle that energy, also known as ‘ki’ or ‘chi’, flows through the body via energy centres called ‘chakras’. A balanced flow of energy is said to provide a sense of wellbeing and spiritual renewal.
Those who practise reiki are said to draw upon universal healing energy, which is then transferred to the client through visualisation and by gently placing their hands on or just above the body.
Reiki is taught by reiki masters/teachers, who have trained in the tradition and passed it on, in person, from master to student. Students go through a process of initiation or ‘attunement’ to the reiki energy. They are then able to treat themselves and others, not only from a personal and emotional perspective, but also as an aid to individual development and spiritual growth.
What to expect
Reiki is a non-invasive therapy. Your practitioner will use energy flow from their hands to rebalance each of your energy centres. You will remain fully clothed, lying on a massage couch or sitting in a chair. The practitioner will either place their hands on or above your body, using their intuition to guide energy flow. Your whole body may be treated or just specific parts, depending on where imbalances are thought to lie. Reiki may also be used remotely, with the recipient’s consent.
Benefits of reiki
Reiki is often described as a very relaxing and peaceful treatment, which helps to restore a sense of balance and well-being within the mind and body.
Due to the very gentle nature of this treatment, it is often used to support those receiving conventional medical care in hospitals, hospices or at home.
To read more about the potential benefits reiki has as a form of complementary therapies
Reiki should not be used in place of conventional medical care. Always consult a GP or other health professional for medical attention and advice.
Choosing a therapist
It is important to choose a qualified therapist who has undertaken the necessary training to understand the theory and practice of this particular therapy.
In order for a qualification to be accepted for FHT membership and to the FHT Therapist Register, it must meet the following criteria:
Standards
Skills for Health National Occupational Standards:
- CNH1 Explore and establish the client’s needs for complementary and natural healthcare
- CNH2 Develop and agree plans for complementary and natural healthcare with clients
- CNH12 Provide Reiki to clients
All qualifications related to the FHT’s Register modalities must be reviewed by the FHT Education Panel. The qualification is reviewed by an expert in that particular therapy prior to the registrant being accepted to the FHT Therapist Register.
Training Required
Practical led and observed training to Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) Level 2 equivalent or above. This will ensure the course is mapped to the above standards.
By choosing a reiki practitioner who is a member of the FHT, you can be confident that they are professionally trained, qualified and insured. They will also be listed on our FHT Therapist Register, as reiki is considered a form of complementary healthcare.
To check that an FHT member is on the FHT Therapist Register