Additional answers provided by the author of Educational and Career Opportunities in Alternative Medicine , our online advisor, Rosemary Jones . This life force energy can be defined as energy in all created matter. The energy is channeled through the hands to the client, which activates the body's own natural ability to heal itself. Reiki goes to wherever it is needed most, releasing blocked energies, cleansing the body of toxins, working to create a state of balance and harmony, and promoting relaxation and healing. The practitioner's intent is to support the healing process from a conscious and compassionate state.
Light touch is used on, or above the client's fully-clothed body.
Shoes can be removed for added comfort. Reiki practices are just beginning to be formally studied. Case studies are published in books, magazines and on the web for more information about others' experiences. Reiki's tradition and history is oral and generally passed from Reiki Master to student during training. Some of the writings tell the story of how Dr. Mikao Usui, a Japanese Christian educator, discovered the ancient healing art in Japan in the late 1800's.