Wellness dictionary

Little ABC for your spa-break questions ...

In their treatment discriptions, wellness hotels often use technical terms, which are hard to understand for potential guests. We have therefore collected and defined the most relevant terms in our small wellness ABC. A tip: Our wellness dictionary also supports word requests. You don't need to know the exact wording.

Select letters or search term:

Reiki

Reiki – What is it?

The Japanese word "Reiki" (pronounced "Ree Ki" in the West) is often translated as "universal life energy". Reiki is a very old healing method that was mentioned in old Sanskrit Sutras more than 2,500 years ago. The method was rediscovered in the 19th century by Dr. Mikao Usui. Since then the Usui system of Reiki has also been spoken of. It is based on the idea that universal life energy can be transferred from one person to another by simply laying on of hands. Reiki is described as a cosmic energy flowing through the universe. This idea of a universal energy is known in many cultures. In Christianity, for example, as the "Holy Spirit", in Egypt as "Ka" and in Hippocrates as the "healing power of nature".

Reiki – How does it work?

Reiki is supposed to bring body and mind in harmony. According to the Reiki teachings it works on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual level and is supposed to promote self-healing. Reiki assumes that there are seven energy centres - the so-called chakras - along the front centre of the body. By laying on of hands the life energy is passed on and the disturbed energy flow is reactivated. Since the Reiki giver sees himself only as a channel for this energy, no power is withdrawn from him, but he should also emerge strengthened from the treatment. Reiki, like a massage or autogenic training, creates a deep relaxation in the body of the treated person.

How is a Reiki treatment structured?

During a Reiki treatment, the patient lies on a mat, dressed. The therapist puts his hand on the forehead to adjust to the patient. In order to supply the chakras with energy, the head, neck, chest, shoulders, hips and lower back are then also touched.

According to Dr. Usui, the energy of Reiki is largely autonomous: during the healing treatment it should automatically flow to where it is needed and also work even if the treated person does not believe in it himself. At the same time, Reiki is not bound to any religion or belief, so that everyone can learn it regardless of their world view. However, there is no scientific proof of the effectiveness of Reiki.