Reiki History

The present system of Reiki energy healing with which the world is gifted was discovered in Japan by Dr. Mikao Usui around 1922. His studies and interests were filled with a deep belief in ancient and powerful healing energies which had apparently been lost, and which he dedicated himself to rediscovering. Following many years of studies, pilgrimages and spiritual growth, Dr. Usui undertook a final trial in his search. He climbed Mount Koriyama and for 21 days fasted and meditated. On the twenty-first day, for his sincere dedication and work, he was rewarded with the knowledge and transmission of the energy that we now call Reiki. For the rest of his life, he dedicated himself in both its use and teaching, training students to become Masters, and in turn continue the teaching, which eventually spread Reiki throughout the world.

For his dedication and purity of intent, Dr. Usui was given this form of Reiki. The ancient original form of this energy which he sought actually originated 18,000 years ago, in the area between Tibet and China which we now know as Shambhala. Lineage Lamas of the pre-Buddhist spiritual tradition of Yungdrung Bon (the original spiritual tradition of Tibet) retain its memory. That original form was unfortunately lost centuries ago, so the discovery of our current form of Reiki is a special debt we owe to Dr. Usui.