There are many varieties of Reiki that have come to the West since Mikeo Usui first introduced the system in the early 1920s. He originally put the system together for his own use realising the benefits of simplifying Buddhist precepts, practicing various meditation techniques, and added hands on healing which was already widely used in Japan.
After his death in 1926, his students continued his legacy. Depending on their individual experiences and interests, some focused more on hands on healing while others on the more spiritual teachings and meditation techniques.
Hawayo Takata, who first brought the system to the West, was taught by Chirjiro Hayashi. Her teacher Hayashi was a medical doctor in the Navy for many years and his clinics focused on group hands-on healing for students.
Hawayo, who was Japanese but had been living in the USA (Hawaii), became very ill on a trip back to Japan. She went to Hayashi’s clinic in Tokyo, received 4 months of reiki treatments and was completely healed from her illnesses. Afterwards she wanted to learn his healing methods so she could teach Reiki when she returned to Hawaii.
Upon reflection, it is not surprising that when Takata bought the reiki system to America, her focus was mainly on hands-on healing and using the precepts. She considered that the breathing techniques and meditations too ‘spiritual’ for westerners at that time.
In her diary, Hawayo Takata describes Reiki as an “unseen spiritual power that vibrates and all other powers fade into insignificance beside it.” This power or force is believed to be within all of us, but those who study and apply it correctly can use it to heal.1
Reiki and Meditation
Nowadays meditation has become widely accepted. People in modern day life (especially those with anxiety, depression, or feeling disconnected to themselves) benefit from the various ‘meditations’ on offer. Most people start with fully guided meditations, which are very relaxing, but don’t always facilitate real growth and awareness.
Japanese reiki meditations are a much deeper experience. They take you to a place where you can observe the mind, let go of the many thoughts that arise, and keep returning to a safe place. A place that quietens the more we practice. The outcome is that you soften your attachments to worries and anger and rediscover your true nature.
It’s the place of real growth and real awakening.
Sitting in silence is tough for busy people 😀. Our modern society often over-stimulates the mind with world news, music, and digital distractions. How many friends do you have who can’t sleep at night? The mind can be a very busy place at night.
‘A peaceful mind is the great infinite’. How true this is ❤️🙏.
The idea of a calm mind is very attractive, but it takes work and perseverance for most of us. Many abandon their practice because focusing on the breath, something that seems incredibly easy, is hard. However, if we are willing to commit to regular practice, the rewards are wonderful.
Meditation returns us time and again to the present moment. It is here that we find joy, genuine happiness and connection.
This is one of the reasons I love Reiki. In a class we try out various techniques and focus the mind on deeper breathing. Students are often surprised that the changes they notice happen relatively quickly. It gives them incentive to keep practicing at home.
Are you interested in learning reiki and beginning a regular meditation practice? I look foward to meeting you in Cairns.
Julie xx
Learn Reiki in Cairns
Why not begin your own journey into healh and inner wellbeing. Julie teaches all three levels of Japanese reiki, beginning with Level 1 Reiki Shoden. Here are the latest course dates for Reiki beginners.
Events
References
Quote 1: Hawayo Takata Papers (Santa Barbara Library)
Maintaining self care in challenging times
Things are tough right now and we are all feeling it. This quick blog post is a gentle reminder to take care of yourself along with a few tips for maintaining your own self care in challenging times.
1. Mindfulness
The pressures of our world are part of our human existence, and a consistent mindfulness meditation practice will help you face the stressors in your life, while taking a step back from any negativity and drama.
Mindfulness is about focusing your attention on the here and now, regulating your breathing, observing your feelings and the sensations in your body without judgment. Rather than responding or reacting to negative thoughts or feelings, you merely note them and let them go. The object is to create awareness and take it into our daily lives, appreciating the remarkable gifts that life provides throughout each day
2. Hydration
When bills and financial stressors are coming at you, don’t forget to keep up your hydration levels. And if you find yourself drinking more coffee and alcohol than usual, make sure you balance this out with clean water, fresh juices, green tea, and herbal infusions.
“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.”
Jon Kabat-Zinn
3. Movement
It’s great to keep your body mobile and moving. Apart from the proven benefits to cardio-respiratory health and fitness, exercise improves the quality of your sleep while decreasing the symptoms of depression and anxiety. With age our bodies loose flexibility and strength so yoga, walking and regular gym work can all make a huge difference to our mobility and daily wellbeing.
4. Nutrition
A balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables can increase your energy levels and and improve your focus throughout the day. Try to avoid processed foods and anything that makes you feel heavy and tired. Your body knows best, just ask before you eat.
5. Retreat
If you can, take some time out for retreat. If you don’t have the time or resources for a lengthy detox or getaway, you could try a meditation retreat day, an overnight staycation somewhere close to home, or just taking a weekly mindfulness class.
Reiki Practice in Daily Life
I settled in Cairns eventually and they came to visit a number of times. They loved it. Gorgeous places to visit like Cape Tribulation, the Tablelands, the reef and Fitzroy Island. Staying at Rainforest Reiki was a treat too and they came to a reiki share night and mum had treatments.
. These precepts are the goal of the system to be less worried, less angry, more grateful and be kind and compassionate to ourselves and others. To rediscover our inner light which is always within us – we’ve just forgotten it.
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The Importance of going on Retreat
As twenty-first century life becomes more complex, stressful, and challenging many people are allowing themselves time out for retreat. A retreat is an opportunity to get away from the stress and demands of our everyday lives and do something positive for ourselves.
In this short blog I’ll be unpacking some of the key benefits of retreat and a few guidelines to help you find a suitable retreat in your area. I run regular retreats here in Cairns and Far-north Queensland but you might need something a little closer to home.
Meditation
Studies show that meditating even for as little as 10 minutes increases the brain’s alpha waves (associated with relaxation) and decreases anxiety and depression.
Psychology Today
Often retreats offer a chance to practice new things like yoga, meditation and Reiki. It’s fun to try new things and also build or reconnect to existing knowledge.
Go on retreat with an open mind and be willing to try meditation and other spiritual practices. You will be amazed at how peaceful and rejuvenated you will feel by the end.
Even better, you might learn new meditation practices which you can bring into your daily life once you get back home.
Socialisation
Social engagement is associated with a stronger immune system, especially for older adults. This means that you are better able to fight off colds, the flu, and even some types of cancer.
Psychology Today
A retreat should be a good balance of personal time, exercise, doing practices which focus on your wellbeing and a chance to socialise with others.
Connecting with like minded people is also something that’s very beneficial. We can all learn from each other.
Great Food
Nutrient deficiencies are implicated in many mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Psychology Today
A lot of people think that retreat is about extreme dieting and denial, but this isn’t true. Retreat is always about wellbeing and should include good healthy food options that inspire you.
Ask your retreat host when booking about the type of foods you’ll be eating and the availability of different dietary options.
Exercise
Scientists are finding exercise boosts neuron development and reduces anxiety.
Psychology Today
Exercise is great tonic for mental health and a well-run retreat will include a nice selection of physical activities. Gentle yoga, tai-chi, Reiki, swimming, and walks in nature are all lovely on retreat.
It’s wonderful to try new exercises that improve your strength and flexibility. And in a group setting under the guidance of an experienced teacher you just might surprise yourself.
Nature
Being in nature lowers cortisol, reduces heart rate, bolsters immunity, improves mood, among other gains.
Psychology Today
Look for a retreat that is set in nature where you can experience grounding and find peace and quiet.
On retreat it’s important to minimise distractions. Leave the phone in your room during sessions or even for the whole retreat!
Final thoughts
Odd as it may seem, taking real, quality time to “escape” from your everyday routine and reflect on your own life is actually one of the best things you can do for the people who matter in your life.
Psychology Today
I hope I’ve been able to convince you that Retreat is a healthy act of self-care that can have a big impact on your overall wellbeing. Programming regular time out for yourself, learning meditation and other spiritual practices, will not only reduce your stress levels but better enable you to support the people in your life.
Of course I’d love to see you at one of my retreats in the tropical rainforest of Far-north Queensland, but no matter where you are in world do take some time to experience the benefits of a meditation retreat in the place that’s best for you.
Upcoming Retreats in Far-north Queensland
Julie hosts regular retreats in Cairns, Mission Beach and the Atherton Tablelands. For more information call +61 438 537365 or email julierainforestreiki@gmail.com. Cairns has daily flights from all major cities in Australia.
Connecting with the Truth of Who You Are
Unity or oneness is something more and more people seem to be talking about these days. These experiences can happen to people who have no spiritual interest but they then awaken to the realisation that there is so much more out there.