Origins and Early Influences
The history of Reiki traces back to ancient times when various medical practices, particularly from Chinese Traditional Medicine, made their way to Japan during the 8th-9th centuries. These practices introduced the Japanese to concepts of the human energy system, such as Tan Tien and Meridians, and Chinese Qi Gong, known in Japan as Kiko. These ideas were integrated into Japanese culture alongside existing practices like Shiatsu and Te-ate, which also utilized energy and finger pressure.
Mikao Usui: The Founder of Reiki
A pivotal figure in Reiki's history is Usui Sensei, also known as Mikao or Gyoho. Born in Taniai-mura (now part of Miyama village) in the Yamagata district of Gifu Prefecture in 1865, Usui Sensei was a diligent student known for his remarkable abilities. However, he faced significant setbacks and challenges in his quest for success. Seeking answers, he embarked on an ascetic journey to Kurama yama, where he practiced rigorous meditation and fasting known as 'shyu gyo' kushu shinren or Zazen Shikan Taza.
On the 21st day of his asceticism, Usui Sensei experienced a profound moment of enlightenment, feeling a mysterious atmosphere over his head and attaining an understanding of Reiki 'Ryoho,' which originally meant ancestral remedy or therapy. Using Reiki on himself and his family, he observed immediate positive results. Inspired to share his newfound knowledge, he moved to Harajuku, Aoyama, Tokyo, in 1922 and founded a learning society called 'Gakkai.' Here, he taught Reiki Ryoho, also known as "Usui-Do," based on his principles outlined in Usui Reiki Ryoho.
Growth and Legacy
Usui Sensei's reputation as a healer grew rapidly. He traveled throughout Japan, particularly aiding those affected by the Kanto earthquake and fire in 1923, offering Reiki to those in need. His relief efforts were marked by compassion and dedication. As his following increased, he established a new training hall (dojo) in Nakano, Tokyo, in 1925 due to space limitations.
Tragically, Usui Sensei fell ill during a stay in Fukuyama and passed away in 1926 at the age of 62. He left behind his wife Sadako, son Fuji, and daughter Toshiko. His teachings extended beyond his immediate family to include his wife's niece, Suzuki San, a Tendai Buddhist Nun.
Usui Sensei's Philosophical Contributions
Known for his gentle and humble nature, Usui Sensei possessed a wide range of interests and knowledge, from history and medicine to various spiritual practices like Buddhism and divination. His training and cultural background contributed significantly to his understanding of Reiho (Reiki Ryoho), which had roots in Taoism and Shinto and arrived in Japan from China around the 5th or 6th century.
Posthumous Development and Spread of Reiki
Following Usui Sensei's passing, the Usui Reiki Ryoho Gakkai was established as a memorial organization by his students and friends, aiming to preserve his teachings. Usui's Reiki, which combined elements of Usui-Do and Teate, was a spiritual and philosophical path focused on living a harmonious life without anger or worry. It encompassed meditative practices for spiritual growth and hand healing techniques for self-healing of the mind, body, and spirit.
Modifications and Western Adaptation
In more recent times, certain aspects of Reiki's history were altered by Hawayo Takata, a Reiki teacher attuned by Chujiro Hayashi, who in turn was attuned by Usui. These modifications were made to make Reiki more appealing to the Western audience amid anti-Japanese sentiments during World War II. Changes included associating Usui's religion with Christianity and adding standardized hand positions to the practice's levels to discourage reliance on intuition, which was viewed differently in the West. When Reiki reached America, new age concepts and angelic ideas were added.
Contemporary Practice
Despite these changes, at Kikoh Reiki, the core principles and teachings remain rooted in the legacy of Usui Sensei and the healing practice he founded. The focus continues to be on self-healing, spiritual growth, and living a balanced, harmonious life.
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