Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to the facts below, check out the Cleveland Clinic Wellness Institute for additional information
- How effective is Reiki? How immediate are results?
The wellness of an individual is ultimately up to themselves. There is nothing super magical and extra ordinary about the nature of Reiki and how it works. In the documented history of this modality, there have been cases of clients experiencing both insignificant changes as well as possible miracles happening. Depending on the openness of the client Reiki can provide quick and immediate results as well as slow and gentle changes.
While empirical studies are continuing to take place to explain the nature of this healing system, the old understandings (such as Takata's view) are as follows:
- The longer the affliction the more frequent the treatment
- The amount of time with the affliction is comparable to the amount of time to uproot it
- The effectiveness of all treatments is always up to the client's "higher self"
- These are all patterns observed and as such can be disproven at any given time
- All are invited to try and test themselves for a better and truer understanding
- Is Reiki a religion? What are the associations?
No. The system of Reiki is grounded in the principle ideal of compassion, a concept not foreign to the majority of faiths worldwide. The system of Reiki is not a religion, doctrine, or dogma.
However, there have been times where Reiki has been attributed to specific systems of faith in order to be better assimilated into the pervasive culture of the client and place of practice. For example, Ms. Takata alleged Dr. Usui was a Christian figurehead (principal, dean, minister, teacher, etc.) in a school in Japan during the late 19th century. Moreover, looking into Usui's past we learn he was Japanese man educated in a Buddhist institution and studied many faiths long his journey in life.
- Is Reiki more effective than regular medicine?
Reiki allows the body to relax in order to promote healing. As such, testimonials have noted clients requiring prescription adjustments in order to better suit their needs. This suggests Reiki sessions allowing the client's body to better utilize the medication prescribed to them. However, Reiki is NOT a substitute for medical treatment or advice. At most, Reiki aids the client on their path back toward wellness. Moreover, one does not require an affliction to receive betterment from a Reiki session.
- How effective is Reiki? How immediate are results?
The wellness of an individual is ultimately up to themselves. There is nothing super magical and extra ordinary about the nature of Reiki and how it works. In the documented history of this modality, there have been cases of clients experiencing both insignificant changes as well as possible miracles happening. Depending on the openness of the client Reiki can provide quick and immediate results as well as slow and gentle changes.
- How common is Reiki / How many people practice worldwide?
There are now an estimated 1,000,000 Reiki Masters with as many as 4,000,000 people having been initiated into the system of Reiki or a traceable variation throughout the world.
- If Reiki is so useful, why isn't it so popular?
The system of Reiki was introduced to the West by Hawayo Takata in the early 20th century, less than 100 years ago. Given the cultural differences in the understanding of health and the subtle energy system, Reiki has proven to be effective enough to have over 4,000,000 practitioners worldwide in the span of 60+ years from the establishment of the system. Various outlets are beginning to recognize the effectiveness of Reiki treatments and practice as well.