The history and lineage of Usui Reiki

Usui Reiki takes its name from Mikao Usui, who developed the system in early twentieth century Japan. The story tells of a period of deep contemplation, study and fasting, after which he felt called to share a simple method of hands-on healing with others.

A practice passed hand to hand

From its beginnings in Japan, Reiki travelled gradually around the world, carried by dedicated teachers and students. It was never spread through books alone. The heart of it has always been passed in person, from teacher to student, through the quiet ceremony of attunement.

This is part of what makes Reiki so special. When you train, you are not simply learning a technique from a page. You become part of a living lineage, an unbroken thread of teachers and students reaching all the way back to the very beginning.

Reiki today

Today Usui Reiki is one of the most widely practised forms of energy healing in the world, valued for its simplicity, its gentleness and its accessibility to all. Modern lineages such as Holy Fire have brought their own refinements, while keeping that same calm, caring heart.

When you receive or share Reiki, you join that long and gentle story. It is a lovely thought to carry into your own practice, a quiet sense of being part of something far larger than yourself.