THE AKASHIC RECORDS

OF MIKAO USUI
OCTAVIO LOMBARDO RODRIGUEZ
THE AKASHIC RECORDS
OF MIKAO USUI
A REIKI COURSE
 First Edition: February 2017
ISBN: 978-84-9160-569-0
Printing and Binding: Editorial Círculo Rojo
© From the text: Octavio Lombardo Rodriguez
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 Dedicated to my parents who gave me life.
To my Master Mikao Usui who changed my life.
To my son, Jairo, a gift of birth, who helps me to expand my life.
To all my students, who give me life.
Please note:
This book provides a great deal of information to help us in our first steps
in the practice of Reiki. However, simply reading this manual will not make
us Reiki practitioners. Attunement is absolutely vital and without it the
practice of laying on hands could even be harmful for the health.
Reiki is a complementary system of natural healing. That is to say Reiki
should never replace a medical treatment or be used in place of suitable
medical attention.
Note 2:
In some chapters, mainly in “History” , there are many variations of the
grammatical person. This could be perceived as something not stylistically
pleasing. Sometimes, it is Mikao Usui who talks, and he does so in a first
person singular form. When I consider it opportune, I ask for clarification ,
and these clarifications come down in a different grammatical person and
they mix with my own writing. My friend, the Reiki Master, Jorge Gandul,
warned me of this. But it is impossible for me to modify any channeled
information, as this information does not belong to me , so it’s been offered
in a literal way.
 Acknowledgments

I would like to thank all those who have made it possible for me to convert
this book into a reality.
My wife Beatriz, who with love and patience has put up with me being
locked away in my room concentrating on writing and writing, in the few free
days I have. Many thanks for all your support and understanding.
My friend Rubén Luque Martín, who one day at the beginning of 1998
encouraged me to do my first course of Reiki. The course was given by
Master Lola Martínez Yeste.
Reiki Master Alejandro Cruz Cano, who completed my training.
My dear Master of Akashic Records, Piedad Ruiz Cortecero, who opened
up for me a new universe of an incredible, higher and immediate knowledge.
Right from our own home, I didn’t have to go anywhere.
My friend, Albert Lledó Grima, who apart from being one of the best
graphic designers around, has always found time to draw for me whatever I
asked. Many thanks for your fabulous drawings.
My friend and poet, Rosario Sabariego, who kindly agreed to do the first
revision of the whole text.
Francisco Gutiérrez García, Professor of the Department of Spanish
Philology at the University of Jaén. How lucky his students are to have him,
for his knowledge and for the standards he sets. With his masterful
corrections this book has attained a new level without losing its initial
simplicity.
My student masters who put their trust in me and continue with this work,
helping to take this art and philosophy of healing further every day and to
more and more people. You will always be in my heart.
When I thought about getting my book out into the world so that its
knowledge would reach more people , I thought that the next logical step
would be to translate it into English. At that moment I could only think that
the most suitable person to help me would be none other than my wife’s
English friend, Libby ( Elizabeth Adams).
I have been to her painting exhibitions and read her poetry. I could only
trust my most precious treasure to someone of her stature. A sensitive,
intuitive, creative person who knows how to capture, as only she can, the
expression and the beauty of life. Besides, as a lecturer in English Philology
at the University of Jaén, and with experience in other translations, I had no
doubt that the literary quality of the work would not be diminished and might
even be improved.
I am very grateful to her for her friendship , her professionality and for her
invaluable support and collaboration. So, dear reader, thanks to her, you now
have the opportunity to get to know this book, which is full of wisdom,
energy, beauty and poetry, which opens and expands our hearts.
And our hearts will become bigger, for each reader in English, after reading
our book, will have a great sense of gratitude towards us.
 Prologue

The aim of this book is to acquire the knowledge and the expansion of a
wisdom and love that crosses boundaries of space and time.
It is a simple and humble method that works from the invisible towards the
visible, from the mystical towards the earthly, carrying with it the energy
capable of modifying in a positive way the body’s natural self healing
abilities.
The book is a practical demonstration of how we can really deepen this
knowledge and experience in order to bring to light the basics of a complete
system for self fulfillment as human beings. We will learn how to take better
care of ourselves and those who suffer. We will learn how to distance
ourselves from illness, and draw nearer to our own happiness in a fair,
balanced and energy based way which is full of knowledge.
Reiki is a life philosophy system, which consists of more than attending a
few courses, but in the learning and assimilation of the contents, the
development of the channeling of universal energy and the integration of all
its values, to help people become more complete, secure, balanced and strong
beings, in the physical, mental and emotional senses, throughout their lives.
How does Reiki differ from other systems of ethical, philosophical,
mystical or spiritual thought? Reiki is not based on words alone. It works in
energy, with energy and through the channeling of energy for others. It is a
real experience that a practitioner undergoes each time a session is carried
out. This energy cleanses us, elevates us and changes us every time we are in
contact with it.
This ability belongs to all of us. We all have it. It is much easier than
learning to read or write, and yet most people remain unaware of it. It is a
forgotten ability, but as simple as the laying on of hands, with love.
It has changed my life and the lives of those who have trusted in these
practices. Every day we see great changes in the places where Reiki is
practiced and in voluntary services in hospitals and so I give myself body and
soul to the teaching and expansion of Reiki for the greater good of everyone.
This book contains the evolution of my knowledge on Reiki through time. I
began with photocopies of photocopies, some notes someone wrote, I’m not
sure who, perhaps Eva, the master of my master, Alejandro.
Then I began to substitute my own explanations because I felt more
comfortable using my own words, always trying to use the most natural and
simple language possible. I learnt thanks to continuous practice and time,
courses I attended and I continued to add to and improve more and more
details, always wanting to achieve the most complete handbook possible.
In 2011 there came a revolution in my life - a high level vibratory
channeling technique of information known as Akashic Records.
With this technique we can access information from our soul, our spiritual
guides and masters. This means we can make contact with our spiritual
masters who no longer live on Earth and who have been elevated to higher
levels of consciousness from where we can benefit from their wisdom and
energy.
All this talking to invisible friends sounds a bit crazy, and in fact that is
how I put it in the courses I give on Akashic Records. We have to get away
from the idea of it being somehow “schizophrenic” and understand that we
all possess this ability to channel information and that we can learn to
develop it. But then if we work with these capacities of healing with the
hands through Reiki and of talking with our Guides, Akashic Records, many
people may be cynical and think of us as “weirdos”.
Even though we know that such people have many qualities, abilities and
dormant possibilities, they don’t activate them because they have a very
inflexible and limited way of thinking about what is possible and impossible.
In consequence they live their lives with reduced possibilities of how they
could be and what they could achieve or know.
The idea of this book came to me one day when I was trying to explain the
concept of the “five principles”. I had collected a vast quantity of texts taken
from different sources, thinking that these would help to give as complete a
representation as possible, but I had to abandon that idea. I realized that it
would be a cold and intellectual work, what some might refer to as a left-
brain type of work, which analyses, compares, adds, completes and
synthesizes, as we are taught to do things from when we were children. But
Reiki is different; Reiki is something alive, spontaneous, wise and full of
energy.
So I threw everything in the bin, all those notes taken from different places,
and connected with the Akashic Records of Mikao Usui, supported by the
depth of Reiki, and let myself be led by the light that illuminates everything.
The chapter on the five principles emerged naturally and with simplicity as a
result of this connection, intuition and wisdom.
A few years later, when I decided to publish this book, I remembered this
experience and based my writing on the Akashic Records of the Master.
I believe this book is one of the few books without a bibliography; it
doesn’t come from other sources but from the one who is the source itself.
This book is not based on other books or on interviews, or on ancient
literature. It is my personal experience, a result of a connection with the
energy and information directly acquired from Mikao Usui and his Akashic
Records. That is to say, it is not based in a search of the past but a meeting
with the present, a practical demonstration of an interior world, an invisible
world, a world full of strength, energy and wisdom, which supports us and is
always there for us to draw on for our growth and healing.
This book is made up of three clearly differentiated parts. The first,
“Theory”, looks at the history of Reiki and how to work with energy. In this
part I was greatly helped by the Akashic Records of Mikao Usui, with the
exception of a couple of sections: “Who can make use of Reiki?” and “Who
can give Reiki?”, where I used logic and my own experience.
The second part entitled, “Practice”, because Reiki is fundamentally a
practical and palpable experience, is where you will be shown how to give
self treatment and how to give a complete treatment to another person. In this
section I have not drawn on the Akashic Records, apart from the occasional
anecdote or brief explanation.
The final part is the philosophical part, although it is no less important. In
this section the five principles are included, written through the Akashic
Records of Mikao Usui. Also in this part are the 125 poems, or “gyoseis” of
the Emperor, in which I was helped by the Akashic Records of the Emperor
Meiji.
The crisis in the world is a crisis of values. A world where the suffering of
others is not considered when there is the chance of making a lot of money.
The third part of the book looks at how we might change direction from
competition and egoism towards a way of compassion, work which considers
others and the fulfillment of the human being. Thus the correct action is not
in always in trying to make more and more profits, but in one that comes
from the heart.
 We recommend reading the theory part before the practical part. The
philosophical part can be read at any time, it can be dipped into, or left to the
end as it is.
In this edition we have added some clarifying notes, to which we will make
reference throughout the book and which you can find at the end of the book.
These notes will help to offer additional information on some important or
curious points.
Finally, I think it is important to say that this book is written from the heart
and with love for all those who wish to know more about Reiki, and in the
hope that it will provide the best information and knowledge possible.
 Part I. Theory
Energy, Reiki and its history
 In this section Part 1. Theory, we are going to focus on the theoretical
foundations that we need to know to be able to understand the concept of
energy, and to understand better what Reiki consists of and its benefits.
We will talk about the energy of the universe, the energy of nature, and the
energy of the human being. Then we go on to explain in more depth what
Reiki is, how it heals, who can use it, who can give it, how the levels are
structured, the importance of the attunement, who discovered it, its history,
etc.
 INTRODUCTION TO THE ENERGY

THE UNIVERSE
The whole universe is energy. This energy is a living entity that pulses,
sometimes quickly, sometimes more slowly. Everything in the universe
pulses. The entire universe is alive. These pulses are known as vibrations or
frequencies. Zero vibration exists nowhere, as energy is energy it never stops.
Any atom or sub particle is no more than a minute piece of energy pulsing
with life. Energy is an intelligent creator. It can form a group of galaxies,
with hundreds of suns and thousands of planets so that on just one planet the
necessary conditions for what we call “life” are found.
We must understand that life is not only animals, plants, fungi, bacteria,
viruses, etc. Life is also the soil that we tread, the air that we share, the water,
or the light of the sun. Life is also the planets and satellites that surround us,
because everything, absolutely everything, supports us and makes it possible
for us to be “alive”. Ancient people spoke of the spirit of the mountain, the
spirits of the rivers, of the goddess or spirit of the Earth, of the sun god, etc.
Everything was animated by a powerful force, and in its different
manifestations was given different names.
In the visible world we live in, something similar happens. We live in white
light, but the different manifestations of this light have been given other
names: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. Each colour is
vibrating at a different rhythm. These rhythms create a world of colours.
Everything that exists, a visible world within our range of perceptible
frequencies, and an invisible world beyond our normal perceptions, is no
more than a manifestation of this energy. You are not alive, but the life
within you, is. You are a universe of groups of different frequencies. Your
pulse is the pulse of the universe. You are the entire universe living its own
existence and as the universe that you are, you are creation, manifestation,
peace and eternity. Your body lives thanks to a continuous exchange of
energy. Light flows through your body reviving it and reminding it of the
correct frequency needed for it to continue working, with coherence, vitality
and health.
HUMAN BIONERGY
Light activates life. A human being is a biological machine that functions
with light. When we refer to light we are not only referring to the light of the
sun. This light, vitality or vital energy is what we breathe, what we eat, and
what we are continuously exchanging with the atmosphere and with others.
The human being is a biological robot that works with light, the light is our
energy. Each cell in our body works with a constant exchange of light. We
might think that our energy comes from food, and that is correct, but just as a
mechanical robot can paint, clean, assemble things, and do other tasks, if we
disconnect it from its source of energy (in this case electricity ) it can do
nothing.
When a robot has a faulty circuit that prevents power from circulating
correctly, obviously something will stop working or will not work properly.
In a similar way, human beings possess a body of energy, but if this energy
does not flow freely through all its systems it will not work well and we will
soon become ill or die. Energy, for example, makes the digestive system
work so that the body can extract energy from food.
Light enters our soul and activates old memories. It awakens callings, tastes
and tendencies, which we are born to experience in order to learn and also to
overcome. They are normally related to our ancestors since we need to
continue or repair what has been done before.
Light enters our brain, it activates and puts into action all our “software”.
That is to say, all kinds of programmes that make our body function and other
programmes that have been imprinted from the different stages of human life,
such as the fetal stage, childhood and adolescence.
Energy moves through the body through the meridians. These meridians are
energy redistribution channels. Through them the energy arrives and gives
strength and health to our limbs, our organs, our glands, etc.
All types of imbalance, physical – chemical, emotional, or mental come
from an earlier imbalance of energy. So by balancing the body energy we are
helping to repair biological imbalances.

THE SYSTEM OF CHAKRAS

Humans are very complex beings. Their different systems function at
different frequencies. So we need to break down the energy, so that it can
suitably nourish us at all those different levels. The places where this happens
are known as the chakras.
The word chakra comes from the Hindu spiritual tradition and its meaning
in Sanskrit is “wheel”.
The vital energy is captured by the chakras, which are regulators of energy.
The chakras are vortexes through which the human body draws on energy out
of a circular flow. They increase or reduce their amplitude and speed to raise
or lower the level of energy in an area and regulate the different energy
fields.
Each chakra is a biosystem of reception and distribution of energy. Each
one is different from the others, because it captures light at a different
frequency range. They are made up of different energy densities so that they
do not always filter light of the same intensity and quality.
Each chakra nourishes with energy a specific group of organs, glands,
tissues, nerves, etc., serving as a supply source to develop specific physical,
emotional, psychic, or spiritual functions.
Nobody has all chakras in perfect form. The state of our chakras defines us.
For example, there will be people who are more physically oriented, like
workers, farmers, sportspeople and those who are more cerebral, like
psychologists, researchers or mathematicians and those who are more
emotional or spiritual types like poets, mystics or sages.
We have a general tendency and a specific variability. So during the day,
depending on how we interact with our environment, with other people, with
our internal self, with our past or with our possible future, the chakras open
or close accordingly. They take on different energetic configurations that
express our different states.
Let’s compare this idea to a flute with seven apertures. By allowing air to
flow or not, notes will be created which in turn can create a beautiful melody.
This energy enters the body through these seven principal openings,
nourishing all circuits and systems of the human body. It can light up like a
light bulb, creating a melody of colour. This glowing, shining field of energy
and light is known as the “aura”.
Just as a person can be characterized by a way of being and thinking, in the
same way in the colours of the aura a certain given configuration
predominates and this composition of colour “sings out” our particular state
at that moment.
 The aura can be captured with a special type of photography known as
Kirlian photography, but it is also possible to train our sight to be able to see
it.
When a chakra does not function properly, because it is blocked or
weakened, this implies an energy deficiency that sooner or later will produce
some kind of problem or pathology.
When we balance the chakras with our Reiki, we are harmonizing the
receiver at a physical, mental, emotional and energy level.

DESCRIPTION OF THE CHAKRAS

Chakra 1

The first chakra located in the perineum channels red

light. This has a faster frequency which gives us physical energy; it connects
with things solid and with the world. The centre of the planet is red. Through
this chakra, we put down roots, (later we will explain this concept in more
detail) we have our “feet on the ground”. It is the balance that gives us
stability and firmness; it is the will to advance. It is the will to live.
It is related to the skeleton, the teeth, the prostate, the anus, the rectum, the
colon, the blood and the suprarenal glands.
Its defining phrase is: “I am here”.
Chakra 2
The second chakra, located a few centimeters below the navel, breaks down
the light into orange. This chakra is in the mass centre, or balance centre, of
the body. All movement comes from here. In the martial arts all attention and
intention is focused here and all movement and strength emerges from this
area, maintaining stable equilibrium. It is the strength of our body. We know
that by controlling this centre the whole body is controlled. It is associated
with emotions and sexuality.
The element associated with this centre is water. Seventy five percent of the
human body is made up of water.
It is related to the pelvic cavity, the reproductive organs, the bladder, the
kidneys and the lymphatic system.
Its defining words are: “I feel”.
Chakra 3
The third Chakra located above the solar plexus captures yellow light. Our
digestive system works on this frequency.
The element associated with this chakra is fire. Fire represents
transformation and purification.
Everything that happens to us with its associated thoughts and emotions has
to be taken in, savoured, chewed, swallowed, digested, assimilated and
excreted.
Just as we must listen to our body when it tells us “don’t eat this, it will
make you ill”, we must listen to our feeling and thoughts to decide if they are
good for us and others, or not.
The wisdom of the body is to assimilate the good and to get rid of the bad.
The strength of this chakra is to illuminate which facts and memories we
should digest and transform for our growth and those we should free
ourselves of.
It is the alchemy of change, of support, physical, mental, emotional and
spiritual growth. Neither diarrhoea (nothing is assimilated) nor constipation
(nothing is let go) are healthy. For example an obsession never stops being a
psycho – emotional constipation.
It is associated with personal power, the force of will, authority, discipline
and self control.
It is related to the abdominal area: the stomach, the pancreas, the liver, the
gall duct, the spleen and the vegetative nervous system.
Its defining phrase is: “I do”.
Chakra 4
The door to the soul. The fourth chakra is also the connecting bridge
between the physical (the first three chakras or lower chakras) and the
spiritual (the three higher chakras).
This bridge is a bridge of love. Everything emotional, compassionate,
empathetic, and having to do with love, is concentrated in this energy centre,
located in the centre of the chest.
It is the main chakra to treat when there are emotional or affective
problems.
The heart always beats. Each beat is a hug of love. Love gives life in all its
forms. The heart imprints love on the blood before sending it all around the
body. Just as a mother loves her baby and cares for it, nourishes it and keeps
it clean, the heart with its love circulates blood to nourish us, protect us and
clear us of toxins.
Meditate while listening to your heart beat like a drum celebrating life.
This chakra regulates principally the thymus, the epidermis and the
cardiopulmonary system. Its function is to oxygenate the whole body. The
element that represents it is “air” and the colour frequency of its light is
green.
The heart is the organ of sensibility. We touch with our hands but we
perceive with our heart. With touch from our heart and we feel with our heart.
A person receiving Reiki is not just a body with blockages, pains and other
tensions. They also have a heart, a heart that suffers because it does not love,
or cannot connect with love, and doesn’t give the correct frequency.
With practice, by just laying a hand on a person, or looking into their face,
we will know how they feel emotionally.
Reiki is not thinking, it is not thinking what I have to do and how to do it.
Reiki is sensing the other person, sensing ourselves, sensing the light and
sensing what we have to do. To be able to sense, we need to move from head
thinking to heart feeling.
Its defining phrase defines is: “I love and I am loved”.
Chakra 5
The fifth chakra has higher frequencies and its colour is blue. It is the
chakra of the throat. It facilitates everything to do with communication,
internal and external, as well as creativity.
Just as it is important to have good communication with others it is also
important to have good communication with ourselves; and even the
possibility of an advanced communication with our guides and masters from
other higher dimensions.
Sometimes we are conscious of our inner voice. Sometimes we are deaf to
it and do not hear it. Sometimes we hear it or feel it, but don’t take it
seriously. Then, when we make a mistake, we realize we should have paid
more attention.
This chakra is related to the trachea, the bronchial tubes, the lungs, the ears,
the pharynx, the larynx, the cervical neck area, and the thyroid glands.
Its defining phrase is: “I speak and I am listened to”.
Chakra 6
The sixth chakra, known as the third eye, is found in the centre of the
forehead. Its colour is indigo or violet and it gives us internal and external
vision. It is the higher centre of intuition, or the sixth sense, it’s like when we
do something without knowing why or what has prompted us, and we realize
we have been saved from some danger. Intuition is the strength that the
management of information and the state of the soul imprints on us by
listening and transferring the next action to the consciousness. So that one
can have intuitions, premonition dreams, and so on.
This chakra is associated with the eyes, the nose, the paranasal sinuses, the
cerebellum, the central nervous system and the pituitary gland.
Its defining phrase is: “I see”.
Chakra 7
The seventh chakra is the third of the higher chakras. It is located at the
very top of the head totally connecting us with the highest and most spiritual
dimensions. The purity of its light (white or gold) lifts our soul and helps us
connect with higher planes of consciousness so that we can benefit from the
energy of high vibrations (healing energy) and with the guides and masters
there, so that we too can benefit from their wisdom, vision, love, etc.
This chakra is related to the brain and the pineal gland.
Its defining phrase is “I am or I know”.

SOME PRACTICAL EXAMPLES TO HELP US

UNDERSTAND BETTER THE FUNCTION OF THE
CHAKRAS
Let’s imagine a person who feels undervalued in his work, or who simply
doesn’t like it. The person can begin to close the third chakra (solar plexus) to
avoid using up energy on something that is not satisfactory or something the
person doesn’t want to continue to be filled with because lots of conflicts are
located there.
Soon, the stomach area starts to complain because of the lack of energy
directed towards it. This area, which needs a great deal of energy to carry out
all the processes of digestion, can then begin to suffer from acidity which in
time will evolve into gastritis or ulcers.
Another example of the fourth chakra (heart) is when a person closes
themselves off from love, to avoid being hurt again. Normally, they
experience a sensation as if they were wearing armour or a constricting band
usually around the chest, giving feelings of hardness, rigidity and coldness.
There are also positive cases, like a person who is very kind hearted,
compassionate and friendly. A person who has a big heart. A big heart means
that their heart chakra is strong and ample. The scale of energy that enters is
immense and a large field of joy and love expands around them. Joy and love
produce the energy that the area of the heart radiates when it is balanced,
healthy and full of energy. When we are near to this kind of person, we feel
much better.
 WHAT IS REIKI?

Reiki is simply the capturing of the harmonizing energy of the universe and
communicating it to the receiver by the laying on of hands. That is all.
Reiki is the universal force that comes before everything. Everything is
energy and intention. With intention we can tune into the different types of
energy.
Even if we are not sure how to correctly focus our intention, we should
simply let Reiki flow without any specific intention. Reiki energy, the creator
of the universe, knows best. Often this is not what the receiver tells us
directly or what we think would be most appropriate.
Reiki is a Japanese term that can be broken down into two ideograms.

Rei- Is the spiritual energy. It is impulse or force from above. It is

the energy of higher consciousnesses. It comes from higher levels.
Ki- Is the energy from this level, it is the vitality of each human being.
Reiki is the help and support of high vibration energy. It raises our
consciousness, cleanses and releases blocks in our body and helps us to come
to terms with our emotions.
Reiki energy is the force of consciousness. The force of consciousness
creates reality. The patterns for correction and balance can be found in Reiki.
Reiki energy always vibrates at the correct frequency because it contains
the patterns of life.
When Reiki is given to a person whose energy is low or blocked, it helps to
reestablish the correct vibrations. It recharges energy and through resonance
it tends to tune in the energy field of the person receiving Reiki to the vital
energy or the energy coming from nature. Nature, naturalness, is
characterized by relaxation and health. We trust and know that there is an
energy that supports us, gives us strength and helps us recuperate physically
and emotionally, just as it helps us in normalizing and cleansing our thoughts.
 This energy emerges from the being itself. Being is the divine
consciousness. Divinity is the state of absolute consciousness.
Just as in a dream, everything is created by the dreamer. In a dream each
character is the creator experiencing it. Where is the dreamer in this dream
world? Within the heart of the main character? or is it outside of it? It is
neither inside nor outside. It is everything and at the same time it is nothing.
We are part of the great dream of consciousness that we call reality.
For God is neither something inside of us nor outside of us. Everything is a
mirage; it is the creator projecting him or herself.
The energy comes from the great consciousness, like the light of a great
projector creating a great film called the Universe with light and shadows.
We connect with this light and project it in order to transmit health.
Universal energy is the force of life. It is an invisible force. If this energy
stops transmitting, just as when we wake suddenly from a dream, it
evaporates. The whole universe will disappear in the same way.
This energy is the constant pulse that keeps all patterns and systems
working correcting. Like the beat that marks out the rhythm of rowing a boat.
Without this vibration that synchronizes and keeps all the biological systems
and inorganic systems working together harmoniously, everything will fall
apart and systems will break down. The rowers will not row or they will row
in a chaotic way.
Everything in the Universe follows an order which is maintained by
vibrating quantum moments. These moments are superimposed one upon
another creating different universes or multidimensional planes.
 HOW DOES REIKI HEAL?

Many patients spend months breathing in the same air in the same room,
without eating fresh, natural food, without going to the countryside, and with
overwhelmed, exhausted, sad, family members at their bed sides. They have
to take numerous medicines, with all the multiple side effects.
The patient, already low in energy, in surroundings which are low in energy
and with people who are low in energy, tends to stay the same or even
deteriorate.
If we introduce potent Reiki into this situation or system everything will
change. In the short term, with recent injuries or illnesses, good results will
be obtained. With diseases that have taken root in a body several years
before, or become chronic, more constant and protracted work is necessary.
Sometimes, we come across a terminally ill patient. The damage is so grave
and extensive that the body cannot recover. But even so, Reiki can provide
many benefits and has helped many people to die in peace, without pain, and
with a relatively good quality of life considering their condition.
Reiki never runs out, its supplies are infinite. It helps the body in three
different ways: calming and relaxing, making energy flow freely, and
reinforcing the energy of the body.

1. REIKI ENERGY ENTERS THE BODY CALMING AND

RELAXING IT
One of the most healing effects of Reiki is the relaxation it produces. This
is easily understood when we grasp the idea that the blood, the signals of the
nervous system and the energy of the person (Ki ) circulate more easily
through a totally relaxed muscle or tissue than through one that is completely
tense. Tense tissues act as a block to the interchange of oxygen, hormones,
nutrients, defenses, and to the collection of waste, toxins, and other
substances that are by products of cellular metabolism. The means that on
one side of the blockage (where the tension is), an accumulation of blood
(heat) builds up, while on the other side there is a lack of blood (cold). As
time goes by the accumulation of blood, toxins, the lack of oxygen, nutrients,
and energy causes a deterioration of the area. Or it can become a breeding
ground for the development of cancerous cells or certain viruses and bacteria.
For example, if we accumulate tension in the neck and trapezium, this may
affect the shoulders, and in time cause pain or inflammation. If the tension
continues, tendinitis will set in and as time passes this could lead to
degeneration of the joints with arthritis or osteoarthritis.
When there is a shortage of energy in the body, there is a tendency to retain
it, to block it, avoiding unnecessary use. In these states of low energy a
person is often in bad humour and full of complaints. Patients are often prone
to be in bad spirits for this reason and not just because of the bad luck they
are experiencing.
The secret of good health is flow. Everything that is blocked and static is
susceptible to deterioration and disease.
Relaxation is produced by an increase in energy. When there is an
abundance of energy, the body relaxes, expands and expresses itself in light
and energy.
Reiki in the body of the receiver produces a state of relaxation that calms
states of anxiety, and releases blocks in the body. The tissues relax and
tensions are liberated, favouring the return of equilibrium.
After the initial relaxation, there is a better exchange of energy, nutrients,
and oxygen and cleansing of toxins begins.
Breathing becomes longer, deeper and calmer, relaxing the mind and
oxygenating and cleansing the body.
If a large accumulation of blood has built up, when tension dissolves, the
receiver may experience a wave of warmth, (accumulated blood) that floods
an extensive area, previously called a “cold area”.
Warmth is also produced by resistance. When the energy moves from the
universe to our body, from our body to another aura and from this other aura
to another body, it passes through different densities where it comes up
against more resistance and more “warmth” is produced.

2. REIKI MOVES ENERGY FACILITATING ITS FLOW

AND NATURAL MOVEMENT
Reiki helps to release blockages or slow flow of little volume. If a person’s
energy is weak, it is possible that in its journey around the body it might find
tensions that are difficult to pass through and not have the necessary force to
push through and cross.
Reiki fills the meridians (routes of energy in the body) with great volume
which increases its speed and force.
These rivers of energy nourish glands and organs and revitalize them.
The sensations in the receiver are like little electrical currents or tingling
sensations that pass through the body, from top to toe or vice versa.

3. REIKI STRENGTHENS AND ACTIVATES THE ENERGY

OF THE BODY ITSELF
Reiki directly recharges all systems, organs, glands, joints, etc., making
them stronger and more powerful. It balances and strengthens the nerve and
energy centres. It also recharges the natural mechanisms of the body for self
healing. The energy provided raises the organism’s defenses and helps to
balance the emotions.
When the whole body is flooded with energy, the person receiving Reiki
may experience a sensation of floating, a general vibration or a pleasant
feeling of warmth.

SUMMARY
The person becomes calm, and the body is better able to facilitate gaseous,
liquid, nervous and metabolic interchange. There is more balance in the
different systems and defenses and energy levels are activated. The body
begins to confront the disease, injury or pain from a more victorious
perspective.
Numerous medical studies support the benefits of Reiki, some of which we
list here:

Improvement in general well being

Better quality of life
Raising of defenses
State of deep relaxation
Alleviation or reduction in pain
Improvement in quality of sleep
Reduction of anxiety
Improvement in appetite
Reduction of irritability
Better patient cooperation
Quicker recuperation after anesthesia
Speeding up of post operative recuperation
Speeding up of healing
Improvement in mental attitude
Reduction in depressive states
Synchronizing the brain waves to the alpha state
No conflicts with medicines and other treatments
It helps to absorb medicine and other treatments better
Reduction of negative effects of medicines and other medical
procedures
Increase in production of the NK (natural killer) cells responsible
for destroying infected cells, or cells that may be carcinogenic
Improvement in functional ability
Reduction of fatigue and increased energy
Balancing of the self regulatory systems of the body
Reduction in the length of hospital stays (recuperation is quicker)
Strengthening of the preventative function
 HISTORY

The history of Reiki is the history of men and women who devoted their lives
to healing and spiritual work. It came out of the compassion of hearts towards
those who suffer.
The founding master, Mikao Usui, was a man who carried out a great deal
of personal inner work and achieved illumination after a long journey
involving years of study, discipline and thorough spiritual practices. Through
this he acquired the gift of healing and began the work of making us
beneficiaries of this gift.
A Reiki practitioner is not only happy with the good that he can do for
others, but also because they can count on the strength and wisdom of this
great master.

BIRTH

Mikao Usui was a person just like you or me. He happened to be

born in Japan on August 15, in the first year of the Keio era (1865) in the
small village of Taniai, in the district of Yamagata, in the prefecture of Gifu.
His inclinations led him in the direction of the spiritual world. All his life
revolved around spiritual practices and the search for illumination.
His father was Mr. Tane (“Taneuji”), also known as Uzaemon and was
from the high middle class, a descendent of Chiba Tsunetane1, a famous
samurai. His mother was the lady Kawai.

EARLY CHILDHOOD
In my childhood, like the childhood of many others, I spent a lot of time
running. I played and studied. I did well at school. I was often called in by
the teachers because they didn’t believe that at my age I could have done
the dictations so well.
 I was initiated into the martial arts in the discipline of sword fighting
with Yamaguchi sensei2, when I was six years old. His influence
motivated me to work on achieving concentration and balance.
In my life I suffered many blows and setbacks but I always continued
with concentration, balance (without losing my centre or my objective)
and patience.
The training was very demanding, both physically and mentally. We
could spend hours looking at a bamboo stem until finding enough
steadiness of mind to make a perfect cut, not doubting, not thinking.
It was as if the blow of the sabre had its own life and with a whistle and
great precision it cut through what was ahead. This exercise, called “Ki-
Ai” represented a total union with your sword as if we both were one.
At the beginning, in the early years, we trained with some rudimentary
swords, made of bamboo or rough sticks called “boken”. As time passed,
when you could demonstrate your skill, the teacher raised you up a level.
This was a special day. One was worthy of using a katana, a samurai
sword and also of wearing a “hakama” (samurai skirt). One was much
respected by the “the sticks” students, as they would call us until that time.
I had that honour when I was twelve years old.

STUDIES
I entered the temple of “The Dawn of the Lotus”, as a student. “The
Dawn of the Lotus” is a literal meaning, alluding to the lotus, the flower
that floats on the water, (the emotions) and grows out of mud, (the animal
condition) to perceive the light (the divine or celestial).
This temple was three days away from where I lived and was recognized
for the high quality of its teaching and education.
Mikao Usui’s family decided to send him to that temple for his education
because there he would have more opportunities to become someone in life.
There was no college in his village, and they preferred this temple even
though there were others closer that functioned as schools.
I became a boarder and during classes and the rest of the day I used to
observe the monks.
In the college they disciplined us with long meditation exercises and the
learning of extensive religious Buddhist texts. So concentration and
 meditation were always present in my life from when I was little.
I studied many disciplines, some with the aim of training me for my
work, like mathematics, history, language, foreign languages, agriculture,
selling at auctions, etc. Others things I studied for my own interests, and
for my spiritual leanings, like the different forms of esoteric Buddhism,
tantric Buddhism, psychology, medicine and other religious philosophies,
both oriental and occidental.

TATSUNOS
I was on the point of entering as a monk, but something told me that I
should be working outside of the temple, where I led a spiritual group. The
long, hard hours of practice were just as difficult as those of the monks
inside the temple.
I was in a type of small group of elite people who were very committed
to Buddhist studies and the search for illumination. This group was known
as “tatsunos”, people devoted to the Buddhist teachings and practices.
We were almost ascetics and during the year we carried out many
ceremonies and practices. We were well seen by society and were allowed
to marry and have children. So, our difficulty was in combining our work
and our family.

WIFE
With my wife, Sadako, I had a very special relationship. She believed in
me and let me continue with my practices on one condition, that I would
never leave the family. Many colleagues left their families to dedicate
themselves completely to their spiritual paths.
I had children when I was rather old as I got married quite late in life. I
was going to be a monk, but destiny did not want me to be enclosed in a
temple. That is why I married late. Sadako, of the Suzuki family, was a
good woman, patient and organized (They had a son, Fuji and a daughter,
Toshiko)
I had various jobs as a secretary. As an administrative supervisor,
sometimes I let myself off of my duties. More than once I was dismissed
and I had to leave because they didn’t give me time for my spiritual
practices. My group was very demanding.
 It was important to understand that anyone who married a member of my
group, would find it difficult as an employee because of their periods of
absence.
This is why Mikao Usui frequently changed jobs.

TRAVELS
His travels were a turning point in his life. He went from living a completely
enclosed life to completely the opposite. There were many long journeys.
These journeys were part of his work, as he used to accompany high level
people related to exterior affairs to negotiate and open new commercial
routes in China, Korea and Vietnam, amongst other countries.
In these long journeys his spiritual vocation led him to visit temples, to
learn about other cultures, and to study different forms of spirituality.
Travelling and meeting such different people gave Usui sensei an open and
compassionate mind. He visited palaces as well as poor towns and villages.
Some years later I settled down and got married but I continued with my
travels, even though they were shorter than before.
In my final years my travels were related to teaching and the diffusion of
Reiki.

SPIRITUAL PRACTICES
Swamped with so many studies and not having found the hoped for
results I used to spend long periods in spiritual exercises, such as fasting,
meditation or reciting sutras and mantras. Sometimes I practiced in my
room, and other times in temples and places of pilgrimage.
I participated in a group, called “Tatsu no Retsu3”, that carried out
mystical magical practices.
We went to woods and remained there motionless or entombed for days.
On other occasions we invoked the elements with long recitations. We
connected with something so special that we always wanted more.

BURIED ALIVE
We did exercises on dying, because we had to die in a fictional reality to
wake up to the true reality. We practiced dying because one day we would
really die.
 On one occasion interned in the wood in a tiny space dug out of the earth
with a few bamboo sticks as an air vent, I found death. The cavity was just
big enough to be able to lie down with the legs crossed. The hands were
held palms up, on the knees, with the thumb resting on the side of the
second bone of the middle finger, a position known as the mudra of the
lotus blossom. Reciting the heart sutra, the main sutra of our school of
practice, we quickly entered into a state of trance. Within this tiny space
inside mother earth we sought death so as to be born again. We used
medicinal herbs with anti inflammatory, insect repellent and analgesic
properties to cushion the ground and to help the body to get through so
many days immobile. We also used esoteric practices for energy cleansing
and the raising of vibratory frequencies. In this chamber of sensory
deprivation one soon becomes alone with one’s mind.
It was as if every cell in my body was separating and flying away from
me, as if my body was decomposing, as if I was being consumed by
worms. Once dispersed and disappeared, who was I? With my body
decomposed and absorbed by the earth and the insects, who was I? Once I
had disappeared, did the weight of my bag matter much, or the colour of
my kimono, the shape of my nose or that insulting comment?
When you return to the world, you feel as if you do not belong to it. It
was very difficult to adapt to it once again. After the death experience, one
doesn’t worry about the price of rice, or if the neighbour has bought a
wonderful new horse, or if your wife isn’t happy because you don’t pay
her enough attention.
People in their mental worlds are so disturbed that they cannot escape
from their mental prisons. But for them the mad one was me - the one who
was totally in peace, the one who wasn’t affected by anything and who
nothing annoyed.
Those were some of the exercises we did. Either you find yourself or you
go mad fighting with your mind.
Exercise suggestion: Meditate on the concept that we are buried and die4.

MOUNT KURAMA EXPERIENCE

Mount Kurama was another discipline and experience. Even though I
didn’t expect it would be the last. It consisted of twenty one days of
 fasting, prayer and meditation in the mountains.
On Mount Kurama I found the peace that I was always seeking, far from
society, work, family and everything else. As the days passed I also grew
further and further from my mind, my past, my studies, and my desires. I
distanced myself so far from all this that soon I found myself alone with
myself.
At last, my essence, my purity, my true nature of light emerged. I was
filled with so much light and energy that I fainted. When I came to, I woke
up to a new understanding thanks to this experience, to a new level of
consciousness, to a new connection with everyone and everything.
I, Octavio, asked him with curiosity while channeling his words, “why
twenty one days?”
Twenty one days represent the three states of mind:
Seven days to pass through the conscious mind
Seven days to pass through the unconscious mind
Seven days to be in the state of “no-mind”
In the first seven days you keep your thoughts at bay so that they don’t
interfere with your work. You shut them off, you block them and you do
not let them develop. When your mind is at peace and not distracted, then
comes the following period of seven days. In this second period, a deeper
unconsciousness emerges; sometimes it is almost impossible to distinguish
between dream and reality. During this stage, one can have experiences
with Buddhas or demons, or others, with characters that bless you and give
you peace, or with beings that annoy you, frighten you or attempt to spoil
your work. If you hold firm, you enter into the next period of “no-mind”,
where everything is empty, where everything melts away. It cannot be
explained, it is as if you explode and blur into every cloud, every
mountain, into each human being, into emptiness itself.
During the practices we had a helper who came up and without making
any noise at all took care of our needs for water and food and helped us to
come down when we had finished. My helper did not have to refill my
plate or help me to walk. My ecstasy was so great that I forgot I had a
body or needed food.
I rose so high that I could touch the source or the source touched me!
When you have gone beyond the mind, one is not the same and the mind
can no longer manipulate you.
 Having reached this state it is very easy to teach others the true path and
it is very easy for them to understand you, but it is very, very difficult for
them to leave behind their old thought patterns and thinking habits.
Energy was flowing through my arms like never before. I then began to
work in a more serious way to treat people with different ailments. The
speed with which their bodies returned back to equilibrium surprised me.
I immediately realized that in dedicating myself to healing, I would only
reach very few people and so my main priority became teaching.
How could one deny this tool to someone suffering? Suffering does not
differentiate between rich and poor, between nationals and foreigners. This
is why we should not make distinctions in the teaching and expansion of
Reiki either.

HEALING
I cannot explain how Reiki heals. You just allow the hands to go to
where they are drawn to and let energy run through them. Sometimes we
feel that some kind of manipulation is necessary, like a massage, or
tapping with the fingers; on other occasions it isn’t even necessary to
touch a person, you simply look at them and bless them.
Mikao Usui was a tireless worker, working hard to heal others. He created
clinics, trained many masters and whenever he could he travelled to other
places to let people know about his healing system and spiritualization.
Spiritualization is necessary because one cannot live in a healthy way
without the spiritual facet. This spiritual aspect gives clarity, understanding,
raises the vibrations and improves quality of life. Usui sensei not only gave
healing, he helped to connect people with the deepest and most forgotten
parts of their being.
A person who connects with their soul, connects with a source of energy
and infinite information because souls are connected. Souls connect on levels
according to the levels of consciousness and those different levels are
interconnected with each other. So we can live always at the same level, or
we can take energy from other levels of consciousness to help us reach other
levels. We can also make use of this energy to help someone to overcome an
illness.
Usui sensei thought of Reiki as a way of life, not only as a way of healing.
 We know that he opened a training centre in Harajuku, Aoyama, Tokyo in
April 1922, for teaching and receiving this kind of healing, where people
were reestablished and freed from whatever type of illness they were
suffering from. He attained great fame and prestige from this and people from
all around the country and even from abroad began to visit him.

WAY OF BEING
He was not only recognized as a healer, but as a great master. In everything
he did he set an example as to how one should accept things and act
accordingly. In his teaching his explanations were always simple and clear.
Usui sensei had a fine sense of humour, as is usual in great people, which
always contributed to his teaching, as in this example:
One day, at table, Chijiro asked him:
‘Sensei, why does God make people ill and then cure them? Why not
just do away with illness?’
‘Dear Chijiro, why did God give you teeth and then take them away?
Why not do away with teeth completely?’
This clever and striking answer caused a lot of laughter amongst those
present. Sensei continued-
‘Everything in nature works in cycles: light – dark, hot – cold, health and
illness too. Our natural state is health, but there isn’t anybody who hasn’t
been ill at least once. Illness is an imbalance in the flow of energy in the
body. Sometimes this produces conditions where imbalance takes over and
illness occurs. We are studying the circumstances and models that promote
a return to balance. Illness continues to be the life force manifesting itself.’

EARTHQUAKE
On the first of September 1923 there was a huge earthquake5 in Japan, one of
the most devastating ever to have happened in the history of the country.
The Kanto region of the Japanese island of Honshu where the two most
densely populated areas Tokyo (Edo), and the port of Yokohama were
located, was the most devastated. It also affected other prefectures like Chiba,
Kanagawa, and Shizuoka.
The earthquake was of a magnitude of 7.8 on the Richter scale. At least
140,000 people died and around 570,000 homes were destroyed, affecting
around 2 million inhabitants.
The earthquake took place at 12 o´clock midday, when most people were
preparing lunch in their kitchens, on gas or coal cookers. It was a great
catastrophe. Any houses and buildings that didn’t collapse were soon
overtaken by the flames of multitudes of fires that sprung up everywhere.
In all this devastation people died or were injured by falling buildings or
burnt by the flames. And not only this, but the people who survived became
ill as they had to live out on the streets in unhealthy conditions,
(decomposing bodies, contaminated water, lack of warm clothes,
inaccessibility, scarcity of medical services and food, etc.) Everywhere was
in ruins and the cries and moans of suffering people could be heard.
Mikao Usui, being the man of action that he was, with compassion in his
heart for all those who suffer, went everyday to devastated Tokyo with his
students.
The earthquake was a very hard blow, and we took turns to provide
continuous help for the thousands of victims. We not only provided urgent
medical care but we also offered food, water and moral support.
These great blow opened the hearts of many people who also opened their
doors to entire families.
The master Usui, directed his people so that help from outside could reach
the most damaged neighbourhoods, those where access was difficult because
of the rubble all around.
Mikao Usui used to say “my home and my money are now for those who
have no home or money. Then God will provide for everyone”, giving an
example of support, compassion and generosity.
When Sensei’s students insisted that he took a rest, he was 57 years old at
this time, he always used to tell them, ‘my hands are where people suffer…’
and yawning but with a smile and shrugging his shoulders he continued, ‘…
and where my hands are, is where I have to stay’.
His good actions during that emergency saved innumerable lives.
Almost two years later, in February 1925, he moved to a bigger centre in
Nakano, on the outskirts of Tokyo.

THE FIVE PRINCIPLES

Usui sensei asked for tireless work on the five principles, through which
people are more conscious of the reactive mind and work on controlling the
emotions. He realized that a session of healing without a willingness on the
part of the patient to change their inertia, they would obviously and inevitably
fall into the same patterns and habits again and again.
Healing is not possible without the active participation of the patient. Reiki
can help people to be conscious of their responsibility for their own body and
soul.
The “five principles” form a fundamental pillar of Reiki and so we will
look at them more closely in the third part of this book.

FINAL DAYS
It was normal for the master to be invited to different places to give talks and
training. On one of these trips, on March 9, in the 15th year of the Taisho era
(1926), in Fukuyama, he became ill and suddenly died.
He left various Reiki centres open, one in Tokyo and others in different
provinces. He trained twenty masters and more than a thousand students.
Mikao Usui came down from the mountain, with a gift in his hands that he
wanted to share with every sincere seeker. Master Usui, who recovered this
ancestral therapy, recognized the value of its strength and propelled by it,
embarked on a voyage that takes us up to the present times.
He transformed his life and began to transform the lives of others.
He started the work of recognizing that Reiki energy flows in the hands of
all those who have peace and openness towards others in their hearts. There
is still a long way to go. We continue to connect many people to their true
nature of energy so that little by little they wake up to a much broader reality,
and can improve the quality of life of millions of people who suffer today.
At the present time Reiki has reached practitioners in almost all the
countries in the world.

THE MOVEMENT OF REIKI TO THE WEST

The movement of Reiki from Japan to the west took place basically thanks to
two people, Chujiro Hayashi and Hawayo Takata.

CHUJIRO HAYASHI
 The military students of Usui sensei were people with
curiosity about the world of medicine and mysticism.
One of them, who reached the level of master, was called Chujiro Hayashi.
He was a surgeon and official in the marine reserves. He set up a Reiki clinic
in Shinjuku, Tokyo. This led to the expansion of Reiki, because in those
times practicing healing through natural therapies was not regulated and if
one was not a doctor, tensions and conflicts with official medicine
practitioners could arise.
People from all parts of Japan, with all kinds of illnesses went to this clinic.
Chujiro Hayashi adopted a mystical, magical spiritual system that Mikao
Usui had developed throughout his life, culminating on the peak of Kurama
mountain, and which he transformed into a system of natural healing, thanks
to his structured scientific mind (he was a soldier and a doctor). He dedicated
himself to systematizing all the knowledge and techniques and took note of
the different treatments for the different diseases. He also helped to develop
the different levels of training.

HAWAYO TAKATA

Hawayo Takata was a Hawaiian woman born of

Japanese parents who travelled to Japan in 1935. She used the trip to visit her
parents and tell them about the death of her brother. She also took her
husband’s ashes for a ritual in a temple there and finally to have an operation
on her bile duct and a tumor that she had in her stomach.
As she was asthmatic, she had to spend a month in a hospital to stabilize her
before the operations. She relates in her biography that almost on the
operating table she heard that little voice that we rarely pay attention to, that
told her not to go ahead with the operation. Then she was brave enough to
leave. During her stay in the Tokyo surgical hospital she heard rumours about
the existence of Doctor Hayashi’s Reiki clinic and so she went there to try
this alternative treatment.
At Hayashi’s clinic, Takata was completely restored and cured of her
diseases. It was then that she persisted in asking to be allowed to receive
training herself. At the beginning they were reticent because she was very
inquisitive (in those days seen as inappropriate) and also she was a foreigner.
But in the end they gave in and Takata spent a year learning and practicing
Reiki with Doctor Hayashi.
Once back in Hawaii, she expanded awareness of Reiki rapidly. She was an
excellent teacher and recognized as a healer. Hayashi himself was invited and
visited Hawaii on several occasions. In 1938, Takata became a well deserved
master.
Reiki continued to grow rapidly throughout the United States and from
there all around the world. Takata will always be recognized as the person
who introduced Reiki to the west.
Urban myth number 1: Mikao Usui as a teacher of Christian Religion
Before we understand this, we should bear in mind the social and political
environment of that time. The Usui system of healing, a strictly Japanese
system, began its expansion in the west in Hawaii U.S.A. from 1938, the year
in which Hawayo Takata attained the level of master.
The Second World War began in 1939. At first the USA was considered to
be neutral, even if at first secretly and then later through a “law and rental of
war material” it would begin to do business providing arms, vehicles, petrol
and other supplies to Great Britain and then to other allied countries as they
became involved in the war.
Then it is easy to understand that, for example, the Germans sank some of
the ships that supplied provisions to Great Britain.
 Apart from that the Americans also began to have disagreements with the
Japanese, as they did not support their alliance with Germany nor their
invasions in Indochina.
The United States began to limit and even block the supply of raw materials
and petrol to Japan.
On the 7th of December 1941, the Japanese made a surprise attack, without
declaration of war, on Pearl Harbor, a port in Hawaii where the Americans
kept their Pacific war fleet. The Japanese knew that the Americans were the
only ones that could defeat them and with this huge blow they hoped to put
an end to their expansionist plans in the Far East and the Pacific Ocean. This
dreadful attack unleashed in Americans a deep hatred of the Japanese people.
On the 8th December the United States declared war on Japan and in this
way entered the World War.
Everything became much more difficult for Hawayo Takata. She was a
woman with Japanese features who wanted to teach a Japanese system in
Hawaii, the place where the Americans had been attacked, bombarded, and
torpedoed in an act of betrayal by the Japanese.
Knowing that Mikao Usui had knowledge of the Christian religion, Takata
strengthened and exaggerated this point, so much so that stories that Usui
sensei was a teacher of religion in a Japanese University began to spread
around. It was not true6, but it helped Reiki to be accepted by the
fundamentally Christian American people.
 WHO CAN MAKE USE OF REIKI?

WHO CAN PRACTISE REIKI?

At first one might think that healing with the hands is something that only
people who are born with a certain gift can do. This is completely incorrect, it
is a capacity that all of us have and that everybody can develop and practice.
If we have no hands, we simply visualize that we have them and carry out
sessions like any other person who has. Reiki energy will capture our
intention and support us in our work.
This energy is always available to us, at any time, in any place. The more
people, animals, plants, foods, etc. we get used to giving Reiki to and the
more diligent we are in our work, the more we will observe the
transformation that it produces in others. Also the more we will be benefitting
ourselves because this energy, before we communicate it to another being or
situation, passes through us, cleansing us, repairing us, and raising our level
of consciousness. Not only that, but this energy radiates throughout the place
where the session is being given. In addition people who are relaxed and
charged with Reiki spread its benefit wherever they go and to whoever they
deal with.
To practise Reiki, one doesn’t need to have any special religious beliefs.
The most spiritual person can choose Reiki as a path towards self growth and
interior development and the skeptic or atheist can choose Reiki as a tool to
alleviate their pains and illnesses.

WHO SHOULD NOT PRACTISE REIKI?

The non-attuned
There are people who without being taught anything, have a facility for
comforting and easing the suffering of others with their hands. Without being
attuned they do not channel universal energy and what they do could be
counterproductive for their own health. This is because they are giving their
own energy or absorbing the ills of the other. The person they are dealing
with improves, but at personal cost to themselves. We can recognize such
people because they cannot treat many people in a day or on several
consecutive days. By contrast attuned Reiki practitioners can practice every
day and at all hours and all that they will notice is that the more they practice
the better they feel.
The person with “bad” energy
It is always important to observe a rule based on the philosophy that goes “to
treat others as we would like to be treated” (here the verb to treat refers to
our behaviour towards others). But if we invert this phrase, we have this other
piece of advice “do not allow those we don’t want to treat us to treat
others”(here the verb to treat refers to the treatment itself).
In addition, one should not be treated by people who, even if they know the
Reiki natural system of healing, have what is commonly called “bad”
energy. Usually these are people who have practiced magic, spiritualism,
witchcraft or other forms of esotericism, and have become “negatively
influenced”. Neither should one be treated by people who take drugs or drink
a lot, or people we don’t know who give us a bad feeling.
Unethical people
One should also keep away from unethical people without scruples who don’t
yet understand what Reiki is. Like those people who only use it to build their
egos, take financial advantage of others or to be able to touch others (with
sexual intention).
To summarize, if a practitioner moves in underworlds of low energy or
their ethics are suspect, this special energy will be withdrawn from them.
Their work will lack all possible force and elevation. The people touched or
deceived by them will acquire their low intentions. Sometimes they will have
enough intelligence to recognize the kind of people for what they are and
other times, they will think that the Reiki system is damaging, and of no help
to them.
The advice is always that no one should put themselves in the hands of just
anyone, whatever qualifications they flaunt. Especially if they feel
uncomfortable with that person’s energy or personality, or observe that their
energy or family relationships, work, social or health stability is not as good
as it should be. All Reiki masters speak of energy, peace, love and harmony,
but do those others have energy, peace, love and harmony in their lives? Then
we understand that one cannot give what one does not have.
 Maintaining ethics and some basic rules or guidelines provides more
quality, security and confidence.

WHO CAN RECEIVE REIKI?

Reiki is completely suitable for everyone and everything.
We can give Reiki to babies still in their mothers’ wombs, to children, to
young people, to adults and also to old people, that is to say, we can give
Reiki to everyone.
We can give Reiki to people who are ill or have diseases or people who are
healthy.
It does not depend on the state of consciousness; in other words, we can
give Reiki to someone while they are asleep, in a coma or conscious.
It is not necessary to believe in anything or have knowledge of anything to
receive a good Reiki session.
In the case of accidents, when we act quickly, we minimize the
consequences or make them less perceptible. I mean that, for example, it can
reduce the size of burn marks and scars. Also it favours speedier recoveries.
Those suffering from chronic illnesses require longer sessions over longer
periods of time.
Illness does not establish itself in a person instantly. Illness is a
combination of various factors working over a period of time until it affects
the balance of the body. Usually this imbalance has been going on for years.
Sometimes immediate healing is demanded of Reiki, without understanding
that recovery needs a longer or shorter process which implies not only the
healing energy. Also necessary, on the part of the receiver, is the will to
change, together with patience and persistence on the correct path on the part
of the recipient.
In those with terminal illnesses, quality of life is improved, they obtain
peace in their minds and hearts, so that their transition takes place in the most
natural and tranquil way.
Reiki is not just used for treating people who are ill or in pain. The
preventative element is also very important. Also many of us have conflicts
and psychological or emotional traumas, of greater or lesser degrees caused
by our past that also benefit from balancing and healing.
 We have compiled cases in which Reiki has helped many people with their
injuries, illnesses, depressions, anxiety etc. Nevertheless there are also other
cases that have never been described. In the “practice groups7” we are
helping a multitude of people without them knowing it and best of all,
without knowing it ourselves.
Think of a healthy person, who goes to Reiki practical sessions, time passes
and they stay healthy. That’s normal, but in some cases, this person has a
predisposition to develop a pain, a tumour, a polyp, or other illness in a few
months, and thanks to Reiki, it doesn’t develop.
Often we see how everyone around us catches colds and we don’t. It is
extraordinary and yet we are not even usually aware of it.
It is very striking and impressive when a pain or an illness disappears,
people who don’t know about Reiki often put it down to “coincidence”, but
it is more striking still if a pain or an illness doesn’t even appear in a person.
Even though sometimes it seems that our work is not giving results, in fact
it is, and many results too. For this reason we should never stop our practices
and continue doing Reiki as often as we can, without expecting results,
because much of the time we are not conscious of them.

WHO SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN REIKI?

In fact Reiki can be used to treat the whole world. It should be made clear
that Reiki energy is never harmful.
Race, sex, religion, social class, sexual orientation, civil state or physical
appearance should never provoke differences in our attention.
Reiki practitioners limit themselves to facilitating Reiki sessions and that is
all. Knowing that one is always going to help and not aggravate the state of
the recipient. We don’t need to know what hurts or why, always proceeding
with respect and without judgment.
Obviously we should not give Reiki to someone who doesn’t want to
receive it. Accepting a Reiki session implies having a certain open
mindedness. Many people with prejudices and preconceived ideas of Reiki
still don’t accept it, and of course, we have to respect that.
We must be careful with the syndrome of the “helper” that appears when
we want to help everyone at all costs. We can waste our time and energy
attending to people closed in a dynamic of dependence and passivity and who
deep down are not interested in working on themselves. We should not take
on the problems of others as if they were ours.
Reiki is always beneficial and we have never heard of any case documented
that tells us that it has been harmful. Neither has there been any negative
legal ruling against Reiki. Nevertheless, some books, or the internet have
indicated some exceptions. I would call these exceptions urban myths.
Everyone knows of them, and accepts them but no one has ever proved them.
Urban myth number 2: “One should never treat recently fractured bones, as
the bone has to mend quickly and this could contribute to a bad joining or
fusing of the bones”
This is completely absurd, because if someone breaks an arm or a leg, one is
not giving Reiki to the injury for three days. Obviously, they will call
emergencies to take them quickly to hospital. Once the fracture has been
corrected or operated on by a surgeon, then we can give all the Reiki we
want.
To this we have to add that the surgeon does not join but draws together the
edges of the bone, after that a process of bone growth (osteoblasts) and of
reabsorption of the bone (osteoclasts) begins. This process depends on the bio
electric load of the bone, and this means that even if the bones are not
perfectly aligned, at the end of the process they will be. So the use of Reiki as
a repairing, energizing, balancing element is totally advisable.
Urban myth number 3: “You cannot give Reiki to a pregnant woman”
It would not be counterproductive but rather is only a safe measure. Reiki
strengthens and accelerates the natural processes of our organism. That is to
say, that if a woman has a miscarriage Reiki will help her to have it. If a
woman has a normal pregnancy Reiki will strengthen and benefit her.
Why is it a safe measure? Let’s think about it. If a woman has a natural
miscarriage and we are the last person to lay hands on her, we can find
ourselves in difficult situations. For the same reason physiotherapists don’t
usually like to treat women who are in the first three months of pregnancy.
Reiki is life, without doubt. Personally I have been asked by women who
had difficulty in conceiving to give them Reiki, and the results have been
excellent.
 I have also given many sessions to pregnant women; some for the particular
reason that they were having contractions too early, the benefits were positive
all round and they went on to have normal full term pregnancies.
Urban myth number 4: “You cannot give Reiki to a person with a
pacemaker”
This is the same case as with pregnant women. It is a protection guideline and
not because it would do harm. Personally I have given Reiki to various
people with pacemakers and they have felt just as good as any other person.
No one has complained or observed anything strange about the level of
relaxation they reached or the energy they received.
Urban myth number 5: “You cannot give Reiki to a person who has had a
transplant”
In this case for logical reasons, transplanted patients are given medications to
lower their defenses to minimize risk of rejection. As Reiki raises the
defenses, people therefore deduce that Reiki has to be negative for such
patients.
People I have known with kidney transplants have done well with Reiki.
There are studies from the Columbia Presbyterian Medical Centre8 of New
York, which state that no heart transplant patients who had been given Reiki
sessions suffered from rejection nor did they develop the common secondary
effects of weakness in the legs, chest pain, or post surgery depression.
Another category are those people with mental illness, and I have no
experience of working with them. My advice is that sessions are always given
in the presence of their therapist, and to be alert to any possible crisis or
anxiety attacks.
In all these cases, when in doubt, we can give a treatment without touching
the patient, placing the hands about 20 cms above the body. Or if we feel that
the case is too big for us to deal with, it is best not to intervene and
recommend someone more expert or a more suitable professional (a doctor, a
psychiatrist, a physiotherapist, an osteopath, etc.).
 CAN REIKI HEAL EVERYTHING?

Can Reiki heal everything? Yes, definitely. We have read of many different
cases, of surprising healing by old masters and also we have seen them with
our own eyes in our own consulting rooms and Reiki centres.
But can it really heal everyone? Clearly not.
In my own experience not every patient is automatically healed. Its global
effectiveness depends on many factors.
The golden rule is “Reiki does not heal someone who does not want to be
healed”.
It is like giving medicine to a child who then it spits it out. The participation
of the recipient is more than 50% of healing. After all we can only reach the
other 50% maximum.
Our 50% consists of getting rid of tension, recharging energy and raising
defenses (reestablish the flow, reinforce and energise).
Their 50% consists of changing their way of being (their block) and starting
to change (unblocking).
In the most resistant cases one can see an improvement that is usually
temporary, or changes in their negative attitude, their focus or their
understanding of what is happening to them through continuous practice.
Reiki does not help to heal or improve the conditions of people who look to
gain some kind of benefit from the bad or who are not prepared to give up the
benefit. A benefit like getting the attention of other people, using for
example, victimization. Another example might be the person who is hoping
for payment or retirement for being handicapped. Certainly this person is not
focused on wanting to improve. Neither will it help if one is trying to avoid
some work or some other responsibility or putting off resolving some
difficult situation by not acknowledging it or if one has no will to live or, or if
the person hates themselves or isn’t ready to change damaging habits.
Sometimes a person’s whole life is focused on their illness. If their illness
should suddenly disappear their life would lose its meaning. Consequently
until the person does not find a new, different meaning in life it will be very
difficult for this person to leave behind their illness.
 Occasionally it may be something more unconscious, like an identification,
a repetitive negative habit, a means of distraction or evasion, or the need to
pay for some feeling or feeling guilty for something, or one of a multitude of
possibilities.
Let’s think for example of a child who realizes that when he is ill, his
parents stop arguing. It is complicated to understand the real reasons why a
person becomes ill. It is never by chance or bad luck, it is always the result of
some personal or family conflict.
As we never know if the person will be healed or not, we never make
promises. We cannot know the fate of each soul, but we have to respect it,
whatever it is.
We cannot sort out the life of a person in an hour, but we can make them
feel much better, and sometimes with patience and constancy, miracles can
happen.
 WHAT CAN WE GIVE REIKI TO?

MEDICINES
When we give a little Reiki to medicines they benefit in two ways. Firstly, it
makes them easier to assimilate and secondly, it reduces side effects.
In patients being treated with chemotherapy or radiotherapy, Reiki given
everyday usually avoids the loss of body hair and facial hair, clearly
indicating the existence of less toxins in the skin. It prevents pain and nausea,
as well as boosting energy so that recipients can continue with their normal
daily activities.
It is not our role to give opinions or advice on pharmacological
medications. Only medical specialists should evaluate the situation and
decide if medications need to be reduced.
Because of its profound results the use of Reiki in hospitals all around the
world is becoming more and more frequent.

WATER

A Japanese scientist, called Masaru Emoto, has shown how water

has the property of saving information in its molecular connections. This
information is a vibrational one. That is to say, water is capable of recording
a thought, an emotion, a word or the vibrational state of certain musical
melodies.
He realized that exposing water to beautiful words like “peace”, “love”,
“thanks” and then freezing it, he noticed that beautiful and harmonious
crystals formed. In the same way when water was exposed to negative words
like “war”, “I hate you” or “stupid”, crystals did not form and the designs
that formed on the ice were very unpleasing.
We should give a lot of importance to this knowledge and be conscious that
the planet and all of us are made up of 75% water. We need to realize that
when we have a negative thought or speak harsh words, we are not only
contaminating ourselves, but also all those around us.
 An example: In a bar where the couple running it are always arguing, I am
told that when you eat or drink something there, soon after you have a
stomachache.
We give Reiki to what we drink, to water too, whatever we are going to do
with it, cook, wash up or water plants.
Water with good energy has always been known as blessed water. We all
know famous sources of miraculous water, whose composition is the same as
other sources in the area, but with highly positive effects.
Advice: drink water from a glass bottle that you have put stickers with
positive messages on.

FOODS
In “Messages from Water” (a video by Dr. Masuru Emoto) he explains that a
primary school boy does an experiment with two identical jars filled with
cooked rice. For a month he said “stupid” to one, and “thank you” to the
other. At the end of the month one could see how in the first jar the rice had
gone black and rotten, while the other was still white and smelt good. This is
because all foods contain water and as we know water remembers a good or
bad vibration.
So, foods need to be cleansed of all the vibrations they have collected,
during their harvesting, production, transportation, sale or preparation. The
food we eat has passed through many hands, and we don’t believe that all of
them are happy, with lives free of conflict, or have completely harmonious
emotions.
We can use Reiki to revitalize and cleanse food before cooking it, while it
is cooking or once it is on the table.
Love has always been recognized as the secret ingredient that makes the
meal tastier and us feel better. We would also add Reiki.
The good custom of blessing the table and giving thanks for the food one is
going to eat has existed in all cultures. This is a good way to cleanse our meal
of all negative vibrations before eating it.
We can place our hands both sides of the plate, with the edges of the hands
resting on the table. In this way we can give a minute of Reiki to our meal
without attracting attention, especially when we eat in a restaurant.
ANIMALS
We get better results with animals than with people, as they are more
receptive and have no prejudices.
Animals love Reiki. We only have to put our hands on them and they adjust
themselves to show us where they prefer to receive the energy. For animals
as with children, they need only a short exposure time and if they don’t want
any more they will go away.
The only thing to be careful about is that animals can bite or scratch if they
don’t know us, or if we put our hand somewhere that hurts them.

PLANTS
With plants, just as with animals, positive results can be obtained. Reiki
favours their development and growth, even making them more resistant to
diseases and pests.

SEEDS
In the past before sowing crop seeds, it was the custom for a priest or a monk
to bless them. It has been shown statistically that the blessed seeds produce
more shoots and grow more quickly compared to the unblessed seeds.

HOMES
Thoughts and emotions are not only inside each person. We continuously
send out waves from our brains, hearts, and souls permeating everything.
For example, let’s think of a room where someone has suffered an illness
for many years. The person has gone, we take away their things, clean
everything well, but then we go into that empty room and feel uncomfortable.
There are other situations that cause vibrational lows in a place, like fights
and arguments, attacks, tortures, entrapment, rape, sadness etc.
Usually, it is recommended that the practice of Reiki is carried out in
“clean” places with “good vibrations”, so that the recipients there are as
comfortable and relaxed as possible. To lift and cleanse a place Reiki can be
given there, directly to the place or by practicing it with other people. So
practicing Reiki in an uncomfortable environment would be the exception
and the recipient must be in agreement and conscious that they are helping in
this way. We can also raise the vibrations of a place by meditating there.
 Sometimes the cleansing of a place is not so simple. We can find places
where the suffering has been so long and so severe and where so many
people have passed through, (hospitals, prisons, mental hospitals, cemeteries,
reformatories, old people’s homes or cells)where even if we give Reiki every
day for months, we hardly notice the slight results. Sometimes we can come
across houses, where the best advice is just not to live in them.
Many people who are sensitive to places like hospitals or cemeteries have
noticed a “before” and “after” effect when the following exercise has been
carried out before entering such a place.
THE ASTRONAUT’S SUIT
In these cases the technique of the astronaut’s suit works incredibly well.
Before entering the “low energy” place in question, we imagine and mime
the movements of putting on an invisible astronaut’s suit. We put our arms
and legs in and do up the zip and then we put on the helmet. When we leave,
we take it off and drop it to the floor, pushing it down with a little Reiki so
that it recycles with the earth (Mother Earth).
I have no idea why this works. I don’t know if it is suggestion, if it is a way
of speaking with the unconscious so that it closes when absorbing energy
coming from outside… I don’t know, but I do know that it works very well.

METALS, JEWELS, MINERALS AND OTHER OBJECTS

The objects we use are impregnated with our vibration (our ways of thinking,
emotions and attitudes) or with the vibrations of the place it is in. Sometimes
it is highly recommendable to cleanse jewels, quartzes and other metals or
precious stones. We take them in our hands and give them a little Reiki.
Exercise: Put on another person’s watch, bracelet, or clothes. Notice what
you feel.
Practical example: A friend bought a second hand car and took it to a priest
so that he could bless it. It seems to me a good idea, it wouldn’t have
occurred to me.
 LEVELS

INTRODUCTION TO THE LEVELS

To raise a large building you have to construct strong foundations, then you
have to raise the building floor by floor. In the same way Reiki is based on
four levels of teaching. Each level is consolidated with the corresponding
attunement and with practice. Without attunement there is no level and
without practice there is no evolution. The lack of practice is similar to the
chess player, who once he has learnt all the movements of the pieces, never
plays. As time passes what will his level be?
We can also compare the levels to the construction of a motorway.
First we have the land, it is prepared, flattened and then it becomes an earth
road. (1st level)
Then it is asphalted and signs are posted on it. We have a conventional
road. (2nd level)
Later other lanes are added, the directions are with fences or barriers.
Now we have a motorway. (3rd level)
With this simple example we understand how a lot of time and work is
needed. The motorway under construction is our spiritual connection, which
is not born spontaneously, but needs fixation and progressive growth, both in
the flow of energy and the raising of vibrational frequencies.
Let´s look at more examples. The levels are also like the rings of a tree. If
not much time passes between the growth of one ring and they will be very
thin and narrow and when the final level is reached the connection will be
thin and weak.
The more time you spend working, and the deeper you work on every ring
or level, the thicker and stronger they will become. When you reach the level
of master, your tree will be gigantic.
A level is not only a theoretical level. In the attunement of the first level a
boost of energy is given so that the soul vibrates with a higher level of energy
and connects with more depth and strength. When a previous level is not
consolidated, the next leap is not possible. For example the energy of level 2
does not stabilize in a person who has still not made level 1 part of them and
integrates it into their being.
 The energy system of a person progresses in more or less time, depending
on their exercises and practices, which are used to channel more and more
energy of a higher vibration. A person who has never practiced Reiki, and to
who the title of master has been given, will have an immature energy system
and of low capacity. This means that in reality their system begins at this
moment to channel and so they will start at level 1, whatever has been written
on their diploma.
All this can be easily understood with the example of work of physical
energy like weight lifting. The force or strength to lift great weights comes
with the work of many years and not with the diploma. That is to say that if
one weekend one achieves a title as a teacher of weight lifting, does that
mean that on Monday one can lift 100kg in one snatch if one has never done
weightlifting in one’s life? On Monday one will only be a beginner with a lot
of theory in their head.
It is the same in the world of Reiki. When one gives the title of master to
someone in a short space of time, one is only a beginner with airs of
grandeur, but empty of strength.
Doing courses one Reiki one after the other very quickly means that the
student obtains the intellectual knowledge, which is important, but the
experience, the connection, and the ethics have not been sufficiently worked
on.
This is how Reiki becomes diluted and devalued. The secret of being good
is constant and abundant unpressurized practice.
I am sorry to have given so many examples; I don’t mean to suggest that
one cannot understand straightaway. I only want to emphasize that with the
obsession for obtaining diplomas, many students are promoted too rapidly
and incorrectly, and the result is to lower the quality of teaching to future
masters.

THE USUI SYSTEM OF NATURAL HEALING: THE FOUR

LEVELS
First level
In the first level we make contact with the work of energy for the first time.
We have to trust in this new capacity and continue developing it. The doors
to the channeling of energy are opened, purifying and liberating the energy
channels, allowing the student to connect with the universal energy for life.
Second level
In the second level one reaches a new level of energy, a deeper energy which
acts at different levels like the mental and emotional.
Once we have gained confidence in our hands, we begin to learn, to send it
far in time and distance.
Third level, or 3A
In the third level, one takes a serious commitment, to work for and through
energy. One experiences a deeper interior connection (I, superior, masters
and guides). We build connections with the potential of our souls, and obtain
confidence in our own mastery. We act at a deeper level of our being, the
spiritual. This level increases our healing capacity.
Fourth Level, mastery, or 3B
With mastery we take control of our life and develop confidence and love in
what we do. It is a commitment to teach others what we have learnt and
received.
The levels do not finish with mastery. We can always improve and continue
learning. Mastery is principle not an end in itself.
This level is for those who are totally committed to Reiki, who have
continued growing in experience, reached an advanced level, and wish to
become masters, prepare themselves to attune others and to awaken the gift
of Reiki in the hands of others.
The attunement at this level not only provides the capacity to teach Reiki to
others, it also allows for the expansion of a greater degree of consciousness,
self growth and contact with energy of high vibratory levels.
Usually from every one hundred people who receive attunement in Reiki,
only one will follow the path to become a master.
Master Usui had around two thousand students and he trained twenty
masters.
Each level is driven and strengthened with an attunement process.
 THE ATTUNEMENT

NECESSITY FOR ATTUNEMENT

Reiki is not only a theoretical knowledge, or a series of techniques or steps
that one can learn from a book. It also requires the most important step of all:
the process known as “attunement”. Without attunement there is no Reiki.
Normally no one practices from childhood the channeling of energy to help
others. No one tells us that this capacity is innate in us, nobody explains the
contact and use of vital and universal energy. No one explains the different
planes of existence and its vibratory frequencies, and no one has ever said to
us: “look it hurts me here, lay your hands on me please.” Thus this capacity
stayed practically lost or atrophied. We grow and the only thing that stays
with us is the reflex of putting the palm of the hand on the place that hurts,
bringing only minor comfort.
Our best capacities have been hidden from us, and we are afraid to stand
out from others, to go beyond what everyone else does. We are afraid of
being different, and being rejected by others. But, if we are reading this, it is
because we do not resign ourselves to what we already have or are sold, and
our soul longs for something deeper.
It is time for a revival and a waking up to how we really are and to live
fully as we have always really wanted to live, at full capacity and with all our
capacities awakened.
We are like a computer that could be connected to the internet, but no one
has switched it on yet. It has potential, even though no one knows that they
could have access to the internet, and perhaps no one ever connects it and
their world remains very restricted and limited. But one day, it is connected
to the web of webs , the world wide web, and a new and splendid universe of
information and possibilities opens up.
There are more and more people who feel the need to use their hands to
alleviate the suffering of others. This capacity begins to call them, and they
want to start to make good use of them. Nevertheless, they need someone to
open the energy connection of their bodies to higher planes of energy.
Practical sessions of Reiki should not go ahead unless one has received
attunement.
WHAT IS AN ATTUNEMENT?
Reiki is concentrated energy from higher planes and its purpose is to achieve
stabilization of the body, with good harmony and health. So an attunement is
the intention to initiate a connection between higher levels of energy ,
ourselves and our world.
In the attunement this connection is activated. We all have the capacity for
connection, but it is undeveloped and unawakened. Once attuned, we have
this connection for ever.
The attunement is carried out from above (beings of light, guides and
masters) or from below, through our Reiki master, creating between
everything / everyone a bridge of light and energy that connects us forever
with our higher part and with the energy of high vibratory frequencies.
In this way the aspiring practitioner of Reiki opens their connection with
higher planes of energy. They are connected to these planes by means of a
bridge of light or channel of energy from the crown chakra, taking as much as
energy as they need for their practices. Also their arms are released of blocks
so that they can channel and project the energy that flows through this energy
channel.
The ability to gain access to information and energy is not the same in the
first attunement as in the last. In the last one is total connection, the fusion in
energy.
Nevertheless, it is advisable to understand clearly that from the level of
mastery to illumination, is a long way. Therefore do not associate the title
“Master of Reiki” with an evolved person, as unfortunately this is not always
so.

MIKAO USUI AND ATTUNEMENT

We are connected to higher planes to be able to evolve. A system with the
same energy remains stable. When we inject energy of the highest vibration,
the evolutionary process begins.
If we look back in history, we can see that all is evolution. So there have
always been human beings who have been able to connect with higher planes
of consciousness and contribute knowledge and energy that has brought
about great changes.
 How many people are born with the determination to be able to work
spiritually for eight hours a day, for twenty consecutive years? One out of
every 1,000 million, but thanks to them ways are opened that make the
connection with the highest energy easier.
Master Usui, throughout his long years of austerity, studies, meditation, was
purifying his mind, his heart and his soul to be able connect little by little to
ever higher spiritual realities. He belongs to that minority of great explorers
of human consciousness and the spiritual world. He obtained his award for
such conscientious and painstaking work, and attained illumination, and with
this, the great capacity to heal with his hands.
Not only this, but because of the great strength of his connection he could
connect his students so that they too could channel Reiki energy.
Master Usui explains it like this:
I achieved illumination. From this state it is easy to connect others to the
energy. However, I saw the need to pass this gift on to people who had not
attained illumination, this is done through initiation or attunement.
In the attunement process, a small part, or let’s say, a seed of my
illumination, is passed on to the aspiring person.
So, just as a traveller with a “safe conduct” can cross frontiers, with this
seed the new master can connect with states of the soul, vibrational levels
and the higher masters to be able to bring the gift of Reiki to other hands,
without the need for them to have achieved Illumination themselves.
Thus a flower, can send its perfume far away , borne on the wind, and so
people , who are not flowers, learn to preserve pure essences to smell
better.
The ability to give Reiki has been passed from masters to students till it
arrived at present times, without any of them having to spend years involved
in demanding meditation exercises, mental control, or fasting or even without
having to reach illumination.
There are people who learn the protocol of the steps to carry out
attunements, and without having the level of master, give courses.
Through an understanding the words of Master Usui, we see that without
this spark, without this special energy that passes from heart to heart, from
master to master, such people are only formalizing empty movements that
have no strength and have little effect, and, the students are not attuned.
SHOULD I PREPARE MYSELF IN SOME WAY TO
RECEIVE ATTUNEMENT?
To improve the attunement process, a period of 21 days of purification is
recommended, this period of time echoes the time spent by Usui sensei on
Kuruma Mountain. This makes the work more efficient and leads to better
results.
The following steps are ideal, and nowadays they are usually optional.

Avoid eating meat as well as poultry and fish. These foods often
contain hormones, antibiotics, nitrites, toxins and heavy metals that
make our systems bloated
Follow a vegetarian diet
Avoid the consumption of sugar, (cakes, chocolates, biscuits, etc.)
Drink water and natural fruit juices.
Avoid coffee and drinks with caffeine. These create imbalances in
the nervous and endocrine systems.
Consider the possibility of a water or fruit juice fast for one day
or a few days especially if we have experience with fasting.
Don’t drink alcohol
Don’t smoke or keep smoking to a minimum
Don’t take drugs
Meditate twice a day
Reduce the time spent watching television, listening to the radio
or reading newspapers
Do suitable physical exercise
Make contact with nature
Be aware of our thoughts and words and make an effort to keep
them neutral or positive
For some people, trying to do all this, even if only for a day,
would be a difficult challenge. For others it will always be the
right way to live.
AFTER THE ATTUNEMENT
In the attunement and after, some changes may be produced, because a new
and stronger energy is entering the body- mind-emotional- spiritual system.
There may be a time of cleansing, adaptation and rebalancing, that is to say
that one might experience the so called healing crisis, which we will explain
in the practical part of this book.
Through this spiritual connection, we gain access to another level of our
conscience and our life. With time we will notice many positive changes.
At the present time, more and more people, without knowledge or previous
preparation, sign up for a Reiki course of a day or two, and leave with this
marvellous ability forever in their hands. Isn’t it fantastic to have this ability
within reach in an instant, without having to invest long years of our lives
acquiring it? This ability is no longer limited to monks and nuns, saints and
the illuminated. We are ordinary people who can now heal with our hands,
and receive information channeled from other higher planes of conscience.
It is no longer just a few people who can change the energy of the Earth.
Now there are hundreds of thousands of us and our numbers are growing
constantly.
 Part II. Practice
Feel the energy,
treatments and sessions
 Once the basic theoretical knowledge has been acquired and attunement
received, we are ready to learn the practical basics we need to be able to give
a good Reiki session, to others, or to ourselves.
In this section “Part 2. Practice” we are going to learn to be aware of our
own energy, to be aware of the energy of others, and the steps to carry out a
session. We will also get to know the many important details we need to take
into account, from the preparation of the room, to our own inner attitude.
 INTRODUCTION. EXERCISE TO BE AWARE OF
OUR OWN ENERGY

FEELING YOUR HANDS

This simple exercise helps us to learn to feel our own energy.
We sit with our back straight and with our hands on the table or resting on
our thighs. Our hands are open, relaxed and with palms up. We simply stay in
this position while being open and aware of sensations that we may
experience in our hands.

As our attention is focused on the palms of our hands, we will soon begin to
notice them and soon sensations in them will become more intense. It is
simply feeling the hands. Usually they are sensations like warmth, tingling,
vibration, a gentle stirring of the air, a change of colour, or a feeling of
heaviness.
To intensify these sensations we can take our gaze to our hands. Where we
focus our attention is where our energy goes. This is enough, and in less than
a minute we will feel some of those sensations in our hands.
A little later, if we wish to heighten the experience more, we can imagine
that we are breathing in through our hands. The air enters our hands, rises up
our arms, fills our chest and abdomen and then returns back down the same
route.
So, with this very simple exercise, we quickly learn to feel our own energy,
or “Ki”.

HANDS FACING EACH OTHER

 Continuing with the previous exercise, once our hands are
activated and we are aware of the sensations in them, the next step is to raise
them to the level of the heart, with fingers vertical and palms facing each
other, a few centimetres apart.
Move the hands slowly nearer and then further apart, without letting them
touch. At this point we will become aware that it is more difficult to put them
together than to separate them. It is as if an elastic ball of energy was between
them, and when we separate them it as if the hands were linked together by
extendible threads or chewing gum.
With this quick and easy exercise, we learn to observe different ways of
being aware of feeling energy, like attraction and repulsion.
 BEFORE THE SESSION

USING A SUITABLE PLACE

We need to find somewhere free from the sounds of television, telephones
and people speaking. We should look for a place where we can be free of
interruptions. If a room like this is not possible, any quiet place is suitable, a
bed, a couch, an armchair, on the grass or on a sandy beach.
Whenever possible it is always best to practice Reiki in the same place. The
room will be become more and more imbued and charged with energy, which
means that in subsequent sessions relaxation will be quicker and easier to
achieve and there will be a better connection with energy.
If possible we should try to make the decoration and atmosphere of the
place we practice Reiki in, pleasant and conducive. The room should be a
comfortable temperature and well ventilated.

LIGHT
It is a good idea to subdue the lighting to create a more relaxing environment.
We can use a salt lamp, some candles, or simply lower the blinds if it is
daytime. Try not to disturb the receiver as you move around them by making
contrasts of light and shade with your body or hand movements.

MUSIC
We use relaxing music because it does some of the work for us, as well as
softening noise from outside. Songs can distract or evoke memories. We
recommend ambient or instrumental music.

AROMAS
Not everyone likes the smell of flowers, colognes or incense; they can be
annoying or even trigger negative memories. It is best if there is no aroma in
the room and also if the client observes some smell or perfume we will know
that it comes from their experience with the energy.
There are other smells which could be annoying, like cigarettes or garlic,
which may have lingered on our hands.
REQUIRED MATERIALS
A Reiki table
A massage table is ideal for Reiki sessions. We should position it to allow
for free movement around the client or friend. The best way to be
comfortable while giving Reiki from a standing position or with the help of a
chair is to aim for the height of the table to be level with our hips when
standing.

BLANKETS
To keep the Reiki table in good condition for as long as possible we
recommend always having a sheet, paper or a blanket between the back of the
receiver and the table. This way we can avoid staining from the natural grease
of skin, from makeup, sweat or from scratches.
We should also bear in mind that when a person relaxes, their body
temperature drops, and sometimes the transmitted energy can feel cold. So
it’s a good idea to make the sure the receiver is dressed warmly enough and
to have a blanket to hand.

CUSHIONS
If necessary a cushion can be used to support the head, comfort is important.
If the receiver is lying face up, it’s a good idea to have a cushion under the
knees. This serves two functions, firstly it prevents the knees from being
completely straight, which blocks the joint and reduces the circulation and
flow of energy to the feet. Secondly it means the vertebrae of the lower back
flatten and rest more on the Reiki table.
If the receptor is lying face down, the cushion is put under the ankles to
reduce lower back tension.

CHAIRS
We should avoid moving the chair around the receiver and making
unnecessary noise. We could use a chair with casters or have several around
the Reiki table, for example one for the head and another for the body.

METALS, JEWELS AND MINERALS

 Urban myth number 6: You cannot give Reiki if you are wearing a watch,
bracelets, rings or other metal objects
Jewels and precious metals, like gold or silver, or others with crystalline
structures like quartz, can absorb vibrations and can also influence our
magnetic fields.
But what sense is there in taking them off, harmonizing ourselves with
Reiki and then putting them on again, then things would be out of balance.
For this reason its best to leave them on and then they will be cleansed and
balanced with the body. We only recommend taking them off if it is more
comfortable.
There are also many practitioners who think that because these jewels or
stones can absorb Reiki, less energy will be transmitted to the receiver. Reiki
is always plentiful; it floods the receiver, the practitioner, all their trinkets and
the whole room. It even goes beyond the room where it is practiced.
Another point I’d like to clarify are the so called “Reiki tables” which are
no more than tables made of wood. It is impossible to create a neutral
environment; we are continually surrounded by electromagnetic radiation,
electricity pylons, telephone antennae, radio and television waves, electrical
wiring, or water pipes, etc. I can assure you that if your Reiki table has
aluminum, wood or feet of any other material the effect is negligible.

PLANNING TIME WELL

We need to be clearly aware of the time we have available for each session.
Sessions can be as short as we like. As Hawayo Takata used to say “even a
little is better than nothing”.
Each placing of the hands can usually vary between 3 and 5 minutes.
Working all the positions one can give a good session in about 45 minutes,
but this will depend very much on the state of the receiver.
As a general rule, more serious cases require more work and they will need
more time and more sessions.

PRICE
There are no general guidelines to indicate how much one should charge for a
session or if they should be given free. The best solution is that there is a fair
exchange and this exchange does not necessarily involve money.
 With the exception of close family or voluntary work, if we give a session
to another person, this person will be in our debt. If we are good people and
never want to charge, many people will give up free Reiki sessions because
they feel are they are taking advantage of us. Subconsciously they will feel
they owe us something or have an outstanding account to settle, “now I owe
them an hour of their time” or “now I owe them for six hours of their time”.
When what they owe us becomes too much for them, they will stop coming
to the sessions, or pay us in some way. If we refuse to accept what they want
to give in exchange we spoil the relationship because they cannot cope with
being more and more in debt to us.
The price of a Reiki session should be made clear from the beginning, a
certain amount of money, a favour, a service, some sweets, a barter of some
kind.
It is good for us to know how to value our time, effort and dedication. Often
the price of sessions is directly proportionate to our high or low self esteem.
The central idea of working with Reiki is to provide energy to our life and
to the lives of others. If we give Reiki only with the idea of making money,
then we will be deviating from our main focus.

OURSELVES
To be good practitioners of Reiki there are two conditions to take into
account
The first is obvious, practice! The more we practice the better we will
become. We will gain confidence, become more familiar with this new
practice and will become more fluid and natural as channels. With time, we
will be cleansing and strengthening our function as a channel and as a result
its flow and strength will increase.
The second condition is never to doubt this new capacity. We should be
clear that once it is awakened then it is ours forever.
At first, many people think they are not capable, or they are not going to be
capable, or that this is not for them. Thinking in this way blocks and closes
them, and harms their capacity to channel Reiki.
Establish conditions, rules, timetable and other guidelines
We all adapt ourselves to the hours and rules of doctors, dentists, bank,
shops, or whatever professional attends us. If people ask for our help they
must adapt themselves in a reasonable way, to us and not the reverse.
The following sentence is very true.
“The person looking for help is the one who has to go to the helper”.
Taking this into account in all aspects of our lives we can avoid conflicts,
tensions and wasted time.
The correct attitude is that others know we practice Reiki and that we are at
their disposition when they need it and that they may ask for it, without
demanding anything from anybody, without imposing and always with
respect and kindness.
Other considerations
Even though a uniform can create a positive and professional image, there is
no need to dress in any special way or in any particular colour. In the west
many masters are expected to wear white, yet white in Japan is the colour of
mourning and is not used for practicing Reiki.
Clothing should be comfortable, especially if we practice Reiki on the floor
(with a mat and cushions) because we need to be free to sit comfortably and
to be able to get up easily.
It is more comfortable and less annoying if we take off watches, necklaces,
scarves, rings and bracelets and tie our hair back if it is long. As far as
possible its best to avoid clothes or shoes that make noise when we move.
Of course, we should be clean, especially our hands and nails which are our
main working tool.
The hands adopt a normal position, which is the position the hands
naturally fall into when we are standing and our arms are relaxed by our
sides. Later the hands will adapt themselves more to the forms of the body.
For example, more rounded when working on the head, or flatter on a man’s
chest. They should not be tense either when flat or rounded, for as we have
seen tension blocks the correct flow of energy.
We should always aim for maximum comfort. The back and head should
always be kept in a straight line, whether we give Reiki on the floor or on a
Reiki table. Bending forward when we give Reiki can lead to bad postural
habits that tense our back and cause tiredness and pain. Keeping the back
straight we will avoid discomfort and tense or forced postures.
THE RECEIVER
If the person doesn’t know anything about Reiki, we can explain it to them
simply as a way of relaxing and recharging batteries. It is a simple, natural
and pleasant world. Don’t complicate things by explaining chakras,
imbalances and cosmic energy, as this might clash with their beliefs and
encourage unnecessary resistance.
It is not important if the receiver believes in Reiki to a greater or lesser
degree because this is not something that depends on suggestion. We are not
going to try to change their beliefs or impose our ideas or philosophies on
them. We simply do our work diligently and leave space for others to express
themselves freely in other ways different from ours.
However, it will be more beneficial if the person has a receptive attitude
towards Reiki. Plants or animals quickly obtain great results because they are
more receptive and have no prejudices.
The receiver must be comfortable, relaxed, and have an open mind .If
possible they should not have their arms or legs crossed which may indicate a
closed attitude.
It’s best if they take off rings, bracelets and bangles, watches, necklaces,
glasses, long earrings, hair clips and pins, etc. whenever possible. They will
be more comfortable and avoid hurting themselves or damaging our Reiki
table. It is completely unnecessary to undress to receive Reiki.
It is important to loosen belts and necklines to be able to breathe more
comfortably. Shoes should be taken off to avoid scratching or dirtying the
table apart from the fact that they will also be more comfortable.
Of course, mobile phones should be turned off or put into silent mode.
Expectations should not be created, they should simply anticipate a
beneficial and relaxing activity. They should be told that they will feel a
pleasant state of relaxation and should not worry if they happen to experience
a pain or emotion, like laughter, anger or tears, or if they experience slight
trembling (an indication of release of nervous tension) or if the stomach
rumbles (sign of relaxation); let them know that they should let it go, that
there is no problem, that it’s just their body relaxing and freeing itself of
tension.
We should tell them that they can change position if they feel
uncomfortable. We adapt ourselves to the physical characteristics of the
receiver and their comfort, be it face up, face down, upright, on their side or
seated.
It is best for them to have their eyes closed and let themselves be carried
along by the relaxation and the silence, or the music. It’s best not to speak
either, unless they need something, so as not to be conscious of external
things.
All this is ideal, but we don’t have to be too rigid either; like for example
we tell them: ‘I can’t give you Reiki because I haven’t got the right clothes
on’, or say: ‘I haven’t got my protecting quartz’, ‘my Reiki table’ or even
‘my mantra music’. Giving Reiki is as simple as resting your hand on
someone and that’s it!
More than a body of knowledge or methods, or rituals, or ways of
practicing, it is a question of emptying ourselves, distancing ourselves from
things, from the person, from the results, and allowing the energy to move
without any kind of obstacle.
I remember once I was running along a track on the outskirts of town,
where people usually go to walk or ride a bicycle, when I saw a boy limping
along. When I passed him, I thought to myself, “what do I do?”, “what do I
do?” and “what am I going to do?” I stopped, went back to the boy, bent
down and gave him Reiki on his ankle. I said to myself, I don’t know what he
will think of me, but well, I hope with this he’ll be able to get home ok. It’s
all I can do for him.
Our hands are always ready, at whatever time, whenever they are needed.
 DURING THE SESSION

THE RIGHT ATTITUDE

The best attitude is not to interfere.
Simply be aware, in a restful and relaxed position.
Simply be aware, without the need to explain or judge what happens or
what ought to happen.
Simply be aware, without becoming emotionally involved with the receiver.
Simply listen, to open ourselves, to receive the energy.
Simply let the wisdom and harmony of the universe flow through us.
The less we meddle the more space we leave to the wisdom of the body and
Reiki energy.
At first, there may be times when we doubt that we are really channeling
energy at all, times when we feel nothing or the receiver feels nothing. We
need to relax because we only have to listen and feel, simply have the
intention that we are giving Reiki and no more. Reiki is always with us.
Whenever we call it responds, even though we may not feel it at a specific
moment in time. Always trust in Reiki.
An attitude exercise
To do this activity you need several people, who we will call “students”.
“Student 1” keeps his eyes closed and his back towards the others. We lead
him to believe that different people are going to put their hand on his head.
“student 1” should notice the different sensations he experiences, emotional
as well as physical.
Then, without “student 1” knowing, the same person, always “student 2“
will put their hand on his head, but with different internal attitudes.
For example “student 2” will lay his hand on with a “maternal” attitude.
When “student 1” has evaluated his sensations, we tell him that now a
different person will lay their hand on him, but in fact “student 2” will do it,
but this time with a different attitude, let’s say with an “egocentric” or
“superior attitude”.
Then in the same way, they will test try the experience with attitudes like
“pity” or “neutrality” or “low esteem”.
 This exercise shows the student how the same person with different
attitudes can make another person feel good, or uncomfortable.
Also if we practice this activity more, we learn that a certain attitude can
make one person feel good, and another bad. So having an attitude, even if it
is affectionate, caring or maternal, is not always good and advisable for
everyone.
In my experience I have seen for example, people who were very
comfortable with a maternal attitude and the others who felt overwhelmed by
it.
A neutral attitude is best, where we neither intervene nor contribute and
then the sensations will be those of “student 1” and not a reaction to the
attitude to “student 2”.
There can be many different sensations, for example, well being, warmth,
tingling, cold, heaviness, discomfort, energy, stress or love and this always
depends on who is doing the exercise. The main thing is that it is clear how
the sensations vary according to the different attitudes of the same person.
The right attitude is “without attitude”.

WITHOUT EMOTIONS
When someone we love is ill, or even if it is only an acquaintance but they
are having a bad time because of what is happening to them, good people
may feel sorry for them and feel pity them. We should not feel pity, because
pity is an arrogant attitude of low vibration. We should be understanding and
respectful of the destiny of each person, whatever it may be, cancer,
paralysis, cystic fibrosis, heart disease, depression, death of a family member
or other diseases or tragic events.
Many people carry a heavy load, a destiny that only they can and somehow
must bear. This may be a destiny that we don’t understand, but that we have
to accept with humility and respect. If a soul in a present existence has to
cleanse themselves of a big karma not only of a personal nature but also of
their family, who are we to consider it unjust or worthy of pity.
Their destinies are hard and require more courage and strength. Our
feelings towards them should not be of pity but of total respect. They are
being much stronger than we can become in our lives without problems or
with less problems.
 I want to emphasize that the vibrations of pity we are creating and
communicating are of absolutely no benefit at all to anyone, neither are pride,
good intentions or arrogance. We must try to avoid such interferences and as
far as possible be neutral observers. So, communicating our feelings, even if
they are good, is to interfere with the great Reiki energy.
Someone says to me, “I feel bad and I don’t want to give Reiki to anybody,
I don’t want to pass on my depression or sadness to anyone.”
What can I say? “Don’t worry, for what you are afraid you might do, you
are already doing. Wherever you go and with anyone around you are
communicating your state and your unease. Reiki is independent of your
emotional state. If you are sad, depressed, angry or nervous it is better to do
Reiki than not to do it. Reiki energy is a channeling; you are not giving
anything that is yours. You are not passing on your bad spells, and the more
you practice Reiki the better you will feel”.
The only valid feeling, even though it is difficult to reach, is detached,
compassionate love.

WHEN EMOTIONS EMERGE

Muscular tension is associated with an emotion. A muscle doesn’t tense for
no reason. In the same way as a muscle can trap emotions, when Reiki
relaxes muscles and other tissues, it can help to release trapped emotions.
This is why during a Reiki session, even though not usual, it can happen
that we see a receiver who wants to cry or who is trying to hold back tears. In
these cases we usually say, “Let it out, it’s better than taking it home with
you”. It’s a good idea to have a box of tissues handy in case this happens.
On some other occasions the receiver may feel afraid or re-experience fear,
or a have a new pain, or an intensification of an existing one. Other types of
emotion like anxiety, or anger or resentment may emerge. Re -experiencing
these pains or emotions is an excellent sign that the body is liberating itself, if
not of all, at least a good part of its blocks.
Many Reiki practitioners, when they see a receiver crying in their session,
rush to comfort them, console and hug them. This is a childish response. We
shouldn’t become involved in this work of emotional liberation. If in the
middle of a session their body reacts by crying or some kind of movement,
the correct thing to do is to leave them space to release their emotion. If
necessary we can offer them a tissue, or simply continue with the session as if
nothing had happened. We shouldn’t be startled or lose contact. They should
feel supported by us, and we should go along with them without judgment or
concern. We can tell them to breathe deeply, that what has happened is good,
and that they are setting things free and then we wait a while to give them
time to return to normal.
Then, when the session is over, we can talk about it, or not. The important
thing is respect.
If they react or get nervous, we should not force things, but respect their
reaction and always allow the receiver to decide whether to continue or not.
The main thing is for them to be informed about what is happening so that
they are not frightened.

NO-MIND, NOT KNOWING WHAT TO DO

We should not have expectations of any specific result. We can never say,
“this will cure this or that” or “your pain will disappear”. For sincerely, we
do not know, but we have the certainty that there will be good results.
It isn’t necessary to visualize anything, because it isn’t something that we
create in the mind or the imagination; it is something that passes through us,
is merged with our energy and the receiver’s energy. It is something we
experience and feel,
There’s no need to concentrate intensely or make your mind blank, it is
much simpler than that. Reiki works automatically when the hands are placed
on the area that needs them. Once we make contact the energy flows so
freely.
If we get lost in our thoughts or internal stories, if we realize that we have
been miles away we shouldn’t judge ourselves (this creates more time
wasting and resentment) and we should just get on with our work as if
nothing had happened. We simply focus on whatever attracts our attention.
Observing it will be enough to keep our minds occupied and save us from
wondering what we should think about or not, or trying to keep our minds
blank, or trying to visualize coloured lights.
No knowledge of anatomy or medicine is necessary, nor do we need to
know about energy meridians, chakras, auras or acupuncture points.
 If my attention is drawn to the knee, I put my hand on the knee, and
recharge it with energy, and that is all. I don’t need to know if there could be
a problem with the meniscus or the kneecap, or ligaments or the energy
meridians of the stomach or the kidney or the gall bladder or whatever other
cause.
There are books or masters who when they are confronted by specific
problems advise certain hand positions. This guided system was taught at
first by Dr. Hayashi, and like the doctor that he was, he tried in his
methodology to systematize the main diseases.
We are not doctors, and we don’t know all the diseases, and it would be
long and hard work to learn the 3 to 6 hand positions for each of them.
It could be a reference system, but not everybody is the same. It distances
us from our feelings and intuitions and creates rigidity and a mechanical way
of working. There is no need to analyze or know how to diagnose anything,
or know about any specific treatment.
Our hands will take us to where they are needed. Consequently, we should
always trust in them and in our intuition.
A common beginners’ question is, for example, “where is it best to give
Reiki to a person who is anxious, or with any other problem?”.
Answering this question is very easy, first we give them a complete
treatment and then we focus more on those areas that we have been drawn to
during the session.
The correct mindset is “no-mind”.
A STORY ABOUT THE TEACHING OF REIKI
Chujiro Hayashi was serious, formal and very methodical. One day Sensei
asked him:
‘What would happen if you lost all your notes and books?’
‘I would have the knowledge that I already have’, replied Hayashi
‘And can this knowledge grow?’ asked Sensei
‘Only through experience’, replied Hayashi
‘Well answered. There is no growth without work. I would also say,
don’t only dedicate yourself to teaching Reiki, also let Reiki teach you.’
In this story, Usui sensei saw what was coming and warned him not to
convert Reiki into something rigid. Reiki is alive, intuitive, and it’s growing.
All practitioners who put attention into their practice, even if they don’t have
a teacher, will go on learning and learning through each contact with the
energy.

NOT DOING
We are like a baby who looks at everything, who touches everything, who
wants to put everything in its mouth. This is the kind of curiosity we should
have.
Simply gently laying on our hands and feeling, being curious, without
questioning anything, just observing what happens.
The body has great wisdom, just as Mother Nature. It is about creating
space and time for healing to happen. The healing happens by itself. There is
no explaining, nothing else to do. And that is what is usually difficult: not
thinking, not doing is usually difficult.
The world of energy is a new world opening to us, a new world to discover.
We don’t do sessions in an automatic way (position 1, position 2, etc.) as if
we were robots. We have to learn to listen with our hands and with our heart.
Listen to how the receiver is, where they have tensions, where needs more
energy, where less, what we feel in ourselves. We observe ourselves and
observe the receiver, we are aware of ourselves and we are aware of the
receiver, we note how their body changes and how the expression on their
face changes during the session.
The best sessions are those when we know nothing about anything. There is
no need to focus the session based on a symptom, because usually the
symptom, the origin of the problem and the place to treat are in different parts
of the body.
To understand this point, we are going to carry out a simple example. Put
your hand over your liver, to the right of the stomach and take hold of the
clothes in that area, then let the hand fall while still holding on to the
clothing.
This represents a heavy liver, or pulling downwards. The liver doesn’t
usually hurt but we can observe certain lines of tension in our clothes running
from the liver to the shoulder. The shoulder, subjected to constant overload,
will soon become painful or damaged.
If we only deal with the painful shoulder, the relief will only be temporary.
Treating the whole body, in this case the liver too, our work will be
definitive.
If we do not have much time, we will focus on treating parts of the body.
Even though only the head or another place hurts, we should always try to
give a complete sesión. The human body is a unity which if strong in all its
glands, organs, joints, nerve centres, chakras, etc, will have more strength and
force to resolve crises and problems and we will more easily reach the real
root of the pain or damage.
It doesn’t matter if the treatment is for something physical, mental or
emotional, we always work in the same way.
The correct way of doing it is “not doing”.

CONSIDERATIONS ON THE BODY OF THE RECEIVER

When the body is safe, immobile and relaxed, it enters into a state of
recuperation, repair and is cleansed of toxins.
The deeper the relaxation, the more the benefits of these processes allowing
Reiki energy to enter in greater quantities, and in a much deeper way.
It is more difficult for energy to flow well in a tense body, which is why it
is important for the receiver to be in a maximum state of relaxation. The
deeper the relaxation, the more the benefits. Talking to the person during a
Reiki session means they are more active and aware of the outside world.
This leads to certain tensions and can be detrimental to interior work, and
prevents the processes mentioned above from getting under way.
So as not to take the person out of their state of deep relaxation we should
try to be invisible and imperceptible. We should lay our hands on gently and
weightlessly, attempting not to put weight on them to raise ourselves or to
change position. We should also avoid pushing them or the Reiki table with
our body or making noise or talking at all, except when absolutely necessary.
Sometimes we might put our hands under their body or head, but very
gently and taking care not to disturb or move them. For example if we take
their wrist and lift their arm, their body will come out of its state of deep
relaxation and they will be aware that something is happening.
Some practitioners lift the receiver’s head to be able to put their hands on
the back of the neck. Some are very careful and others less so. I don’t
recommend this for the reason mentioned above, it takes the receiver out of
their state of relaxation, and because I consider it to be a manipulation of the
neck area. In people who have problems with the neck area this can lead to
pain or dizziness. If you are not a physiotherapist or someone qualified,
manipulation could be seen as an intrusion, and sometimes it could be
counterproductive. We should be clear that Reiki is done in a static way and
we never move any part of the receiver’s body.
The energy goes to all parts of the body not just where we put our hands.
That is to say you can have a hand on the front of the body and Reiki can be
flooding an area in the back. The hands can be on the shoulders and the
energy circulates towards the legs, etc.
This is why, even though this book teaches how to give Reiki face up and
face down, it is not necessary to do it in both ways in a session. When I see
Reiki practitioners, very relaxed with their clients telling them, ‘now turn
over’, I always think the same, “You are disturbing all the relaxation and well
being you have achieved. People are not toast; you don’t have to do them on
both sides’’.

OTHER POINTS TO CONSIDER

When we are working in the area of the head, we should take care not to
breath in the receiver’s face.
During a session we can see different signs of relaxation, like rapid eye
movements or of the eyelids, swallowing of saliva, changes in breathing into
deeper and calmer breathing, sighs, or stomach rumblings. Personally I like
to see how the face relaxes and how the corners of the mouth which
sometimes go downwards, slowly rise.
We can also see signs of the release of tensions through tears, laughter,
trembles, or spasms. We shouldn’t worry about these but take them as a good
sign that we are doing good, deep work.
Private parts and abuse
Occasionally worried women have called me because their breasts have been
touched during a Reiki session. This is a problem, due, amongst other
reasons, to the heterogeneity in the training of Reiki practitioners. Some are
well trained and others have hardly been taught anything. I usually say
“either they are stupid, or very clever”.
“Stupid”, because they check out the body dealing with all areas in the
same way without bearing in mind that some areas are private and should be
treated with respect, keeping the hands about 20 to 30 cms from the body.
The same energy is received whether the practitioner’s hand is placed directly
on the body or a held at a distance.
“Clever”, because there are always those who will take advantage of
others. I have been told that some say the energy will be more noticeable with
skin to skin contact, or that a hand has been put inside clothing, or they have
been asked to undress. It is worth clarifying here, that Reiki energy passes
through clothing, bandages, plaster casts, or blankets, and it is completely
unnecessary to undress. So if one is asked to do so it is completely
unjustifiable and should be reported as it constitutes sexual abuse and has
nothing at all to do with a good session of Reiki.
If we are going to touch someone during a Reiki session, we should always
be ethical and respectful. For our own security we should aim to follow the
following advice.

Never work with minors or mentally handicapped people without

the presence of a parent or guardian
Explain beforehand what we are going to do and how we are
going to do it
Accept the conditions of the receiver. Many people don’t like their
stomach, face or feet being touched. Some simply don’t like being
touched at all. The most important thing is that they can relax
completely and are not in a state of alert or uncomfortable. A
complete session can be given perfectly well without any physical
contact
If our hand is strongly drawn to an area take care if it is a private
part and remain at a certain distance above the area
Don’t let any part of our body make contact with the receiver’s
body
Sometimes there are people who are attracted to us, perhaps
because they are vulnerable or emotionally unstable. In this case
we should avoid sessions with them, familiarities, and being alone
with them
 If we lay a hand on the centre of a woman’s chest, we might just
be touching a breast with the edge of our hand. It is better to use
the hand in a vertical position and project Reiki with the finger
tips on the breastbone. Better still is to do it without touching at
all.

I am sad that there is bad behaviour that brings this art into disrepute, and
that many people distance themselves from this so clearly beneficial practice.
Protection
There are those who teach you how to protect yourself before giving Reiki.
This makes no sense at all, and is totally ridiculous. What we are connecting
with is a sacred force of the highest and most powerful order.
“The patient is ‘dirty’ and could contaminate me’’. This is not so, and we
need to get rid of this idea. The flow moves from above to below, from me to
the receiver, not from the receiver to me. Light pushes away darkness, and
not the reverse. Low vibrations do not push away high vibrations.
It is like when we wash the dishes, however dirty they are at the end our
hands are cleaner than when we began. And without protecting ourselves!
It is the same with Reiki. It doesn’t matter how “dirty” the patient is,
because we always finish better than we started. What is more, the worse the
person is, the greater the satisfaction knowing that we have helped someone
who really needed it.
Empathy
There are practitioners who experience physical and emotional sensations,
through empathy with the other person. If a specific part of our body
suddenly hurts, we will touch the corresponding part of the patient. Perhaps
this is the way an area shows us it needs to be treated, even though this is not
usual.
It could also be that Reiki is working on this part of us, and that it needs it.
We should always be aware that giving Reiki is washing and hosing down,
not like absorbing like a vacuum cleaner. If at any time we are absorbing the
symptoms that we are treating, we should “centre” ourselves trying “root”
ourselves so that we don’t take any strange energy from the receiver, and if
we do take any we should let it flow towards Earth.
Connection with Earth
The connection with terra firma is used to encourage the anchoring of higher
energy.
This higher energy, Reiki, comes down to a lower level and can quickly get
lost if there is not a good contact with the earth.
This contact consists of projecting our energy downwards from the root
chakra and the legs if we are standing or seated in a chair.
Having a good connection with earth, lets us channel great intensities of
current without being affected ourselves.
Sometimes it can happen that we feel a little stunned or dizzy. We have to
keep in mind that we are working with three fields of energy, (the receiver,
ourselves and Reiki). If this happens we should be conscious of our
“rootedness”.

SENSATIONS IN THE HANDS

Flow gradient
When we do a Reiki treatment, we can observe that there is a flow gradient
from the healing energy towards the affected or injured area. The worse the
area we treat, the better the energy flow will be.
We can observe this easily when we put our hands on the patient’s knees
during a session. If the person has one injured knee, the flow of Reiki from
each hand will not be the same. Right away we will notice that the Reiki is
much stronger through one of our hands. With time we will see that this
always happens with the areas of the body that need the most treatment. I call
this characteristic “polarity”.
Polarity
The hands overflow with Reiki, they have an abundance of energy. Let’s
call this “positive polarity”. On the other hand an area of the patient’s body
which is weak, ill or injured will lack energy that is “negative polarity”.
Positive and negative poles are reciprocally attracted.
So, it isn’t strange that the hands are attracted to certain areas of the body.
Once they make contact with those areas we will feel they are somehow
strongly held there and we will realize because of the warmth and other
sensations, that it is exactly here where a good dose of Reiki is needed.
 This is why the person we are treating does not need to tell us what has
happened or what the problem is.
Once an area has drawn us to it (negative pole) it fills with energy,
automatically becoming a positive pole. And a positive and a negative will
mutually repel each together.
Then we will notice that our hand, which before was drawn to the area now
detaches itself and the intense recent activity has been turned off. The area no
longer calls us, and it doesn’t interest us and so the next step is to look for the
next area to continue with our Reiki session.
Other sensations
When we touch an area we feel this area. To a greater or lesser degree the
sensations that we can perceive in our hands can vary from warmth, more
intense warmth, tingling, pulsations, prickling, numbness, cold and
sometimes even pain. It depends on how affected the area we are working on
is, and on our capacity to listen. These sensations can come and go in cycles
and also vary in intensity. If we feel pain or prickling feelings for example,
we should not be frightened or move to another position which is less
uncomfortable. We should stay in the same area however uncomfortable the
sensations until they disappear, diminish or we feel we have given what was
needed.
Sometimes the body is so blocked or dormant that no sensations are
produced in the hands. Not that this is good or bad, but it means that one
should persevere with Reiki so as to revive and revitalize it.
Sometimes the receiver continues to experience the warmth of the contact
even when we have moved on to a different part of the body. This is the trace
effect, meaning that the energy in the area is still active and doing its work.
It doesn’t matter if at first we don’t notice anything, or if one day we notice
a lot and another day not as much. It doesn’t mean that if we notice more one
day it is better than when we don’t notice anything. The sensations can vary
from person to person and from one day to another. We should bear in mind
that we are working with a very subtle energy and we have to be confident
that it always works and is always there to support us.
 TREATMENTS

Once we have been attuned we are ready to give a Reiki session:

1. We focus ourselves on the heart, giving ourselves Reiki with two hands.
At the same time we connect with the energy of the Heavens and root
ourselves with the Earth.

2. We can also call on the energy using this position or mudra which I call
the satellite-dish mudra. Hold the arms parallel to the floor and forearms
perpendicular with palms facing inwards towards our head. Straightaway we
will notice the energy and when we feel that the hands are well charged we
can begin.
 At the beginning of the session it’s always good to
start by scanning the body or as it’s also called, “brushing the aura”.
Both hands are held in the same line, in such a way that one hand evaluates
the left part of the receiver and the other evaluates the right. Normally we
start at the top of the body, at the head, and progress down to the feet.
This gentle and slow passing of the hands a few centimeters above the body
is not for diagnosis; with Reiki we do not diagnose anything. There are two
reasons.
The first is related to the knowledge that a tense person also has a tense
aura. It tells us too about the inverse connection, the brushing of the aura
causes the energy body to stabilize, calm down and relax. And this by means
of connection will have effect on the physical body.
The second reason is to evaluate the general energy state of the person. As
the hands pass over different areas we will receive different sensations, like
warmth, tingling, prickling, cold, and even sometimes, pain. It is also
common to perceive resistance to moving on and to be strongly drawn to a
specific area.
With practice, passing our hands just once over the body we will know
which main areas we must focus on in our session.
We can do more scans of the body and at different distances, normally
working closer to the body.
Of course, during the session, we should not place our hands on burns,
injuries, sensitive or intimate areas.
 TREATMENT (I).
RECEIVER FACE UP

We only have to place the hand above each position and give Reiki until we
feel that no more is needed.
Balancing and harmonizing of the three principal centres.

1. Head and abdomen

2. Head and chest

BALANCING AND HARMONIZING OF THE SEVEN

CHAKRAS.
Chakras 2,3,4,5 and 6 correspond with the front of the body and the back.
Correcting a chakra on one side of the body means we are doing the same to
the other side. The correction is not done by contact but through the
emanation of energy (Reiki), that reaches from the areas nearest to those
much deeper.
 3. 1st and 7th chakra

4. 2nd and 6th chakra

5. 3rd and 5th chakra

6. 4th chacra
The rest of the body:
7. The sides of the head

8. The back of the neck

9. Shoulders
 10. Elbow, wrist and hand
With the limbs normally treated at the joints

11. Liver, gall bladder, transverse colon, stomach, pancreas and spleen

12. Ascending and descending colon

 13. Bladder, uterus and ovaries
(Take special care with intimate areas)

14. Knee and hip

15. Sole of the foot and the ankle

 TREATMENT (II). RECEIVER FACE DOWN

We never treat both sides on both front and back. We do either one or the
other.

1. Upper part of the head and neck area

2. Lower part of the head and upper back

 3. Shoulders

4. Dorsal area of back

5. 3rd and 4th chakras

6. Lower back
I like to go down the back palm by palm along the central line of the body,
be it from the front or the back. One of the main channels of energy runs
along this line as do all the main chakras.
7. Kidneys

8. Sacrum
 TREATMENT (III). SELF TREATMENT

It is very important to self treat yourself in the 21 days that follow

attunement. If our energy is weak, “dirty” or blocked, what can we offer
others? Reiki energy will circulate through with difficulty.
With practice our energy channels expand, they are reinforced and cleansed
and the flow of energy will improve steadily.
If we continually treat many people we will notice that there is little need to
treat ourselves, because if we give, we receive.
We harmonize the three main centres:

1. Head – abdomen

2. Head – chest
3. Centre of the forehead and the back of the cranium.
6th chakra

4. Ears and sides of the head

5. Throat, neck, cervical area

6. Shoulder, elbow, wrists, hands and solar plexus

 7. Upper part of the stomach

8. Middle section of the stomach

9. Lower abdomen
10. Lower back and kidneys

11. Hips

12. Knees

13. Ankles
 14. Soles of the feet

END OF THE TREATMENT

The body can be scanned again to contrast with how things were at the
beginning of the session. This is done at the beginning of our journey into the
world of Reiki to reassure ourselves and make us sure that the person is
generally much better. As we become more and more experienced this step
will be unnecessary.
Once we feel that we have done enough, there is one last thing to do, which
is to brush the aura.
Perhaps some small sub particles of low vibration energy that we have been
cleansing have stayed in their aura. So, using the hands as if they were a
brush, we sweep the aura from the head to the feet. For more complete work
we can also sweep the aura at different heights from the body.
 AFTER THE SESSION

The receiver
Once we have finished our treatment, it’s best if the person remains quiet and
relaxed for a few minutes. If they are lying down it is better that before
getting up they should turn onto the right side for a couple of minutes in the
foetal position. Then from this position and with the help of their arms, they
raise themselves little by little, at their own pace. Getting up quickly may
result in dizziness.
Gratitude
We can use these few minutes of rest to internally express our gratitude. We
can thank God or the Universe, or the energy itself, each one can thank
whoever they feel grateful to. We express our gratitude for the benefits
received and for the opportunity to help others. We give thanks for being able
to participate in working with energy to raise and heal the planet and its
inhabitants. In particular we can ask that these benefits extend first and
foremost to those who most need it and who are in worse situations than
ourselves.
Comments
After a Reiki session there is no need to talk much. Usually we like to be
silent. Perhaps all we need to do is to ask the receiver how things went for
them, or how they feel.
Occasionally after a session some practitioners make comments like, “you
are very low in energy’’ or ‘’what’s happening in that area because it is in a
bad state”. These types of comments make people who have received Reiki
feel worried or bad. It is very unprofessional, and in people with
hypochondriac tendencies, can upset them and make them anxious.
Then there is a tendency for people to ask, “Have I got bad energy? What
have you found that is wrong with me?” This is not the correct perspective.
It is no longer important that they could be ill or if there is a need for more
energy or less energy. We have harmonized, balanced and recharged the body
with light. Talk of the past in which there was something wrong makes no
sense, now is more important.
 It is better to ask questions like “Do you feel better after Reiki?” They will
say yes. And this is what they should take away with them, always positive
reinforcement.
In fact we don’t know how many sessions will be needed for the person to
be restored or if this is even possible. Everyone is different. In some people
results are seen quickly and in others much more slowly. The important thing
is to know that Reiki is always good, that everyone is responsible for their
own health and that Reiki is not a substitute but a complement to medical
care.
The healing crisis
When the session is finished the body may go through a period of cleansing,
this process is usually called the “healing crisis” or “purification”.
This happens because tensions that have been in the body for a long time
have acted as dams allowing numerous toxins to accumulate. The build up of
toxins is not only due to cellular metabolism, it also depends on the food we
eat, the exposure to chemicals, medication, ways of thinking , etc.,
As Reiki has great relaxing powers, it helps dissolve tensions and blocks,
producing a wave of toxins that pass instantly into the blood flow.
Is it bad for the blood to be full of toxins? In fact it is good, because the
blood is responsible for the cleansing and purifying of the body. But perhaps
you will not like these temporary symptoms much until the blood is
completely clean again.
Most times the effects are hardly noticeable. I would dare to say that in
99% of cases Reiki feels great and makes one feel much better, reducing
tensions and pains. But on some occasions the effects may be noticeable,
given that toxins in the blood can cause headaches, bad mood, nausea, or a
feeling of malaise. In exceptional cases there may even be sickness and
diarrhoea another more extreme way the body has of cleansing itself of toxic
materials. The healing crisis of a Reiki session usually lasts one to three days.
It is essential to cleanse the body of any large concentration of toxins, to
maintain optimum health.
After this cleansing which may be completely imperceptible (urine might
be darker) or felt very slightly or in more obvious ways, (this will depend on
the state of each person, and the work done), the receiver will always, always,
always feel much better than before.
 So at the end of a session we should tell the receiver about the possible
effects of the healing crisis, especially when one is practicing Reiki with
someone for the first time.
Uninformed people complain that instead of feeling better they feel worse
and become frightened of Reiki. They consider it as something that has been
done to make them feel bad and they reject it completely. But just the
opposite is true, it is a sign that the session has been very effective, deep and
that things have moved a lot. For this reason it is very important that they
know it is a natural process that the body carries out to cleanse itself.
We tell them about this after the session, for if we tell them to lie down and
that tomorrow they may feel a bit unwell, they certainly won’t relax very
much.
We have to understand that the healing process is not a straight line that
ascends from “I am not well” to “I am better and better”.
In the same way, before jumping high, I first have to lower myself; the
body goes down to be able to push upwards.

Starting point: I don’t feel good.

Middle point: In the process of the cleansing of toxins. I feel worse
Final point: I am better than before.
Our response to a healing crisis
It is shocking when someone calls us the next day and says to us “I feel
terrible! Is this normal?” and we say to them, “I’m really glad, that’s
fantastic! Drink some water.” But, this is the correct attitude.
For cleansing the body of toxins quickly and with less untoward effects it is
always important to drink a lot of water and as far as possible avoid other
sources of toxins, like tobacco, coffee, alcohol or unsuitable food.
Water protects us in different ways.
 Firstly, it dilutes the toxins which are only dangerous when they are very
concentrated. Secondly it helps to eliminate them more quickly from the
body through the urine. So, after a good session a big glass of water is always
highly recommendable.
Other ways to help the elimination of toxins exist, like increasing our intake
of natural juices, infusions, fruit and vegetables. Also sweating after sporting
activities, taking a hot bath with salts or a sauna are other ways. Nevertheless,
the simplest and quickest way is to drink a lot of water.
Confidentiality
We should always keep to ourselves any medical or personal information that
we might come to know about through the practice of Reiki.
If we dedicate ourselves to Reiki in a professional way and register our
clients in a computerized data base, we need to be well informed on the
current laws on data protection.
Tiredness
If we feel tired after practicing Reiki, this usually means that we are adopting
bad body posture. This is mainly due to bending the trunk forwards and then
as a consequence, we tense our back muscles. This can lead to tiredness and
even pain.
The back should always be straight and if possible well supported. We
should also keep an eye on our sleep habits, our diet and physical exercise.
An important part of the energy we channel to another person, remains
inside us, to make us healthy or to balance us too. After each Reiki session
we should feel better. If this is not so, we must be doing something wrong,
and we should consult our master.
The room
People of a complaining nature or those in pain may leave behind on our
Reiki table or in our room, a certain energy or static electricity. So, between
sessions, it is highly advisable to open the window or ventilate the room, to
shake out the sheets or blankets, to light some incense or even give Reiki to
the room if it seems necessary.
 Part III. Philosophy
The five principles, teachings and the 125 poems of
Emperor Meiji
In this section of the book we set out the philosophical and ethical bases of
internal work through the “five principles” taken as the path of initiation, the
selected teachings of Usui sensei, and the 125 poems of the Emperor Meiji.
We live at a time when the main focus is on money. This approach is
leading us to destruction, corruption, illness, lack of love and unhappiness.
Our salvation lies in a return to the values of the past. Those values are not
out of fashion because they are eternal. Wise men have always recommended
them above anything else, but we haven’t known how to give them the
importance they deserve. We never understand how the ragged old wise man
is always so happy while with everything we have we cannot leave
depression, anxiety and pain behind us.
We want to change the world. We want to live in a better world, but
changes for the better are always changes from within us. From inside us it is
not a matter of telling others how they should be or do things. From inside it
is only our concern. The exterior world is a reflection of our interior world.
The worse it is outside, the harder we have to work on the inside.
If the world is so bad, it is really because it reflects what is lodged inside us.
If our interior is empty, or full of negative ideas, mistaken attitudes,
manipulation, egoism, prejudices, or resentment, it is time to have a clear out,
throw out everything and make the philosophy of the grand wise men our
most precious ambition, our real treasure. Master Usui speaks of how we can
attract happiness and distance ourselves from illness and disease. But I would
dare to go further. To integrate this philosophy in ourselves is to change the
whole world.
 THE FIVE PRINCIPLES

THE FIVE PRINCIPLES IN JAPANESE

The secret formula that invites happiness in (Shoufuku no hihoo)
Spiritual medicine for all illnesses (Manbyou no ley-yaku)
Only for today (Kyo dake wa)
Don’t get angry (Ikaru na)
Don’t worry (Shinpai shuna)
Be grateful (Kansha Shite)
Be diligent in your work (Gyo wo hake me)
Be kind to others (Ito ni shinsetsu-ni)
Every morning and evening put the hands together on the heart and in a
conscious way sing out loud. (Asa yuu gassho shite kokoro ni nenji kuchi
ni tonaeyo)
Improvement of the body and mind, Reiki Usui natural healing system.
(Shin shin kaizen, Usui Reiki Ryoho)
Founder, Mikao Usui. (Chosso Usui Mikao)

THE FIVE PRINCIPLES. INTRODUCTION

Master Mikao Usui realised that only applying Reiki is a fruitless effort and
for that reason we have to have a guide so as not to fall back into harmful
habits and behaviours that over and over again make us ill or unhappy.
Armed with these principles, Usui sensei encouraged people to practice
them and to see for themselves the great results that can be achieved.
 With exquisite simplicity the five principles bring richness to our lives and
the lives of those who surround us.
Many people have asked where these five principles come from. Some say
that Usui sensei learnt them from Dr. Bizan Suzuki, a friend of his, who in
1914, published a book called “Kenzen no genri”, translated as “Principles
of Health” and where the five principles appear. Others say that they are
teachings of the Emperor Meiji and still others that they are old Buddhist
precepts. My connection indicates that the “five principles” come from
traditional Chinese medicine which means that they are about 5 thousand
years old.
Mikao Usui himself gives us the key in the wording of the principles where
he says “Spiritual medicine for all diseases”.
The term “spiritual medicine” refers to subtle work, where from our
interior we discipline our attitudes and thoughts, and practice control of the
emotions, by contrast to physical or chemical medicine which always comes
from the exterior.
The concept “for all diseases” according to traditional Chinese medicine,
should include each of the “five elements” or “Wu Xing”. The five elements
are a manifestation of vital energy in five main aspects; they are known as
“Earth”, “Metal”, “Water”, “Wood” and “Fire”.
Each element defines a series of organs, viscera and other systems.
So, for example, in a much abbreviated form, as this book does not claim to
be a treatise on oriental medicine, we find that:
The liver and the gall bladder are related to wood.
The heart and the small intestine are related to fire.
The stomach and the spleen are related to earth.
The lungs and the large intestine are related to metal.
The kidneys and the bladder are related to water.
 The elements are linked together to form a constructive cycle.
Wood feeds fire > Fire produces earth> Earth creates metal > Metal attracts
water> Water nourishes wood, and so it goes on.
Everything in nature flows in cycles. The water cycle, the seasons, the tides,
day and night, and so the energy of human beings too.
Our organs and viscera not only have physiological and biochemical
functions, but psychological and emotional ones too.
The human body is the last level onto which all our problems are projected.
The weak, damaged, painful or sick part of the body tells us about the
psycho- emotional aspect of the person affected.
When a person’s energy vibrations become low, they enter into a cycle of
negative emotions.

Each element is identified with a negative emotion characteristic of each

organ.
The stomach is the father who works to provide food for his family. Lack of
work causes him not to feel valued, that something is missing in his life, and
concern. Excessive work can become an obsession.
 The heart is similar to the mother who loves, protects and nourishes,
propelling the blood so that it reaches every cell of our organism. Her
negative emotions are lack of love and joy.
The liver controls the strength of the body. We can make good and
constructive use of our strength or use it inappropriately, immaturely, in less
than intelligent ways, or manipulatively in attacks of anger.
The kidneys filter the blood, that is to say, the liquid or emotional
component. The intelligence of the body takes the negative substances and
eliminates them. We must follow their example, which means we must clear
ourselves of all negative emotions and keep only those which do us good.
The lungs absorb oxygen, the beneficial gaseous component and eliminate
the carbon dioxide that we do not need. We should do the same with this
mental or air component, promoting higher and positive thoughts, and
rejecting any negative thoughts.
Toxins are always produced, but it doesn’t matter too much if the
mechanisms for their elimination are working properly.
Negative thoughts and emotions will always be produced, the important
thing is to avoid dwelling on them, keeping them inside us and letting them
build up.
Until the day comes when even before we can think or feel something
negative, automatically we will have discarded it. This will be the day we feel
rewarding happiness and to be at deepest peace with ourselves.
In the meantime, to counteract this cycle of negative emotions, and raise
our frequencies, we have the support of the “five principles” which will be
explained in more detail in this chapter.
 Master Mikao Usui taught “Gokai” or the “five principles” as a way of
reinforcing all our psycho-emotional system, because it works against the
five basic negative emotions that affect every one of the main physical
systems. They not only strengthen us, they also help to unblock the energy
flows that come from the mind and which can be affecting our whole body in
subtle ways even though they may not have appeared in obvious ways.
So, subtle work or spiritual medicine is necessary, as a preventative
measure against the possible damage or imbalance at an emotional or mental
level that we are already producing. Once the damage or imbalance is
projected and appears in the physical body, this is the moment when
conventional medicine is used.
If we are injured physically, we must see someone who knows how to heal
us physically. If we are emotionally hurt we need to see someone who knows
how to heal us emotionally. If we are psychologically injured, we should see
someone who can heal us psychologically. If we are spiritually injured we
need to see someone who can heal us spiritually. It is obvious that we must
heal at the level that needs healing. So many people said to be spiritual want
to heal only at the spiritual level, when this is no more than a flight from
physical, psychic or emotional work that lies ahead of them.

EXPLANATION
FIRST PRINCIPLE: DON’T GET ANGRY
Before explaining this principle we need to know a little about how the brain
works. The brain is a great interpreter of images, which come from many
different channels. For example it is like opening your eyes and seeing what
is in front of you, dreaming about something, watching a film, remembering
something that happened, or imagining a situation.
Wherever an image comes from, it is only that, an image in our mind.
For example, we think we see a dog about to be run over, or we dream
about it, or it appears in a film, or we see it on the news, then we worry and
imagine what might happen. To the brain is doesn’t matter where the image
came from, or if it is real or imagined. The brain looks at it, analyses it and
interprets it. After the interpretation an emotional reaction is produced. The
emotional reaction depends on the individual, on their education, on their
heart, their past experiences, and their mental thinking patterns. They can
react with horror, fear, anger, cynicism, laughter or even indifference. The
reaction depends on the person, independently of the situation itself.
Let us think now about someone who has hurt us. After being hurt, the pain
diminishes little by little in intensity until it disappears.
A simple example might be a slap. In less than a day, we can be perfectly
ok, but it is not like that. It is much more common that we remember that slap
twenty times or more a day. When twenty days have gone by, we will have
relived and felt more than four hundred slaps. Whoever spends three weeks
receiving four hundreds slap can only be full of anger, frustration and
indignation. It is practically impossible to be willing to pardon something like
that, our body – emotions – mind has received such a beating that we are
literally broken in all senses.
We need to be aware that in fact the person only hurt us once, but we have
hurt ourselves four hundred times.
We cannot continue blaming our pain on others when the pain they caused
us no longer exists for the pain that we have is constantly caused by us.
Each resentment is a heavy load that we cling on to, that we continue to
bear and drag along with us. Clinging on to these loads means maintaining
lots of tension. This nervous and muscular tension uses up our energy,
blocking it and seriously affecting our health.
Letting go is not an action in itself. It is more like disconnecting, stopping
tensing up, stopping holding onto, stopping doing. It consists in stopping
making the choice to hold on to suffering and pain. It is choosing “they have
hurt us, and as we don’t like it, we are not going to continue doing more
damage”.
SECOND PRINCIPLE: DON’T WORRY
Worry consists of focusing our energy and mental possibilities on the
negative. The steps to follow to obtain something are: think about it, want it,
feel it and go towards it. Focusing our mind on misfortune means that we are
nourishing this imagined future with negative energy. As we explained
before, a fatalistic image makes our mind work causing low emotions like
fear, stress, frustration or desperation. All this uses a lot of energy, creates
more tensions and its consequent blockages.
“Only for today” teaches us to focus ourselves on what depends on us and
what is in this present moment real.
 Just as in those programmes involving hidden cameras, people react to
whatever has been set up. We suffer and have a bad time until someone tells
us it was all just a joke. Then we realize that it wasn’t real, but just a set up,
nevertheless our emotional reaction was very real. So every time we have an
emotional reaction we should ask ourselves if we are reacting to a situation
that we are completely sure is real or if yet again it is something our mind has
created and if that is so then we should smile, look directly into the camera
and say, “I already know this joke, and I’m not going to fall for it again”.
If we believe that we are going to get ill, that we are going to break up with
our partner, that we are not going to find work, etc, our own state of mind -
pessimism, anxiety or defeatism, will distance us from our peace of mind,
and make it more difficult for us to relate to people, our emotional state won’t
be appealing to others. Our own beliefs will sabotage us. Then we can justify
everything, saying. “I knew it”. And we will always believe that we get these
premonitions right, and even that we have a special gift for knowing how
things will work out.
Everything that we can lose in this life, (our house, our car, money, work,
friends, family, our partner, our health, even life itself) we really can lose,
and without doubt we will lose them.
Visualize losing everything we value, everything we have, even visualize
our own death. Once we have lost absolutely everything, how do we feel?
When we lose everything and don’t cling on to things, or people, or a way of
thinking, we are simply at peace.
When we accept the obvious is when we are at peace, even though we still
have to confront pain. When we do not accept it, is when our behaviour is
childish, we are frightened and struggling and worst of all is that it is useless.
The world will go on, whether we like it or not, with or without us, with our
things or without them. The world is never going to adapt to us, to what we
want and expect of it. Resistant opposition with phrases like, “we don’t want
this to happen”, “why us?” and “after all we have given, now this!” is to
create more mental and emotional tension.
Instead we should work towards accepting the world as it is, accepting and
adapting ourselves to everything that comes our way, to be at peace and have
a calm mind free of worries.
THIRD PRINCIPLE: BE GRATEFUL
Everything that happens is an opportunity. Each action is an opportunity.
Each problem is an opportunity. Each person is an opportunity. Each loss is
an opportunity.
Before anything else gratitude should be expressed.
Once I was in one of the most difficult situations I have ever been in. The
situation itself was complicated. I didn’t get angry at my supposed bad luck,
nor did I worry about what might happen to me. A wave of gratitude came
over me for the test I had to pass that day. I said to myself “this is a test from
above, I’m going to behave as in theory I’m supposed to”. Really I was
grateful to put my confidence and resilience to the test, to be able to
experience those principles in a difficult situation.
In the end everything was sorted out and I was very happy not to have got
angry unnecessarily and not to have had a day full of anxiety and worry. I
solved everything from a centred and calm position.
We are led to believe that it is illogical to be grateful when we are
confronted by a serious problem. However, it is more understandable to stay
in bed for days, or make a fuss, swear or take to drink. These are behaviors
that show immaturity and a harmful attitude towards ourselves.
The first people we have to be grateful to are our parents. They have given
us the greatest gift that no one else can give us, life itself. We are alive thanks
to them, even if we knew them or not, or if they did things well or not. They
did the best they could at that time. Be grateful for the air we breathe, the
food we eat, the sun that warms us, water, everyone who shows us an
unknown part of ourselves. Be grateful for every opportunity to contribute
something special to the system, ourselves, our family and our surroundings.
We can always give thanks, if we don’t understand that now, we will later
on.
Gratitude is a great antidote against the melancholy for a past that was
better, or complaints about a present that is not as we would like it to be.
FOURTH PRINCIPLE: BE DILIGENT IN YOUR WORK
Let us be diligent in our work, there is nothing else, this is what we came
here to do. Work hard on it. Don’t stop for long and do continue moving on
in our work.
Work is health and strength. People who try to run away from it and its
responsibilities are perverse, miserable and weak.
 Be aware of what we are here to do and do it. Do it gladly, with enthusiasm,
with strength and concentration. Do it with love.
What is our work? Our work is our life.
Work for life and all beings that make up life.
Pay attention and act. Work is action in time. It is time to change, to build,
and to give. Learn to give the best of ourselves at every moment and let’s
give it.
We have come to do our work, not to direct or do the work of others. Take
care of what is ours, and let others carry out their work when they think best.
Everyone has their own work. Some work is more comfortable and some
more difficult. We should not worry about or pity others. All work develops
certain qualities and abilities.
When we tell some adult, who is not our employee or who hasn’t asked for
our help, how to speak, or behave, or how to do something, we are getting in
their way. We are acting as if we were above them, as if we were their
parents, and this weakens and undermines them instead of helping them.
If we are looking out for what others do or don’t do, we are leaving aside
and neglecting our own work.
It is even more serious if we do the work of others. Doing the work of
others is like telling them they are of no use and cannot learn which makes
them, weak and dependent.
Our work gives us satisfaction, strength and connects us with others. It is
our main interaction with the world. We are always connected with the world
and the rest of beings and through work we broaden this relationship.
What if we don’t like our work? There are two main reasons why we might
not like it. The first is that it is not our work, it is not what we have come here
to do, but because of fear or pressure, we have given in to it, and now we are
doing different work. The solution is to be ourselves, and go ahead with what
we have really come here to do, a solution only for the brave.
The other reason is because we are confronted by situations, tensions, and
difficult people. It might be hard work with people whose attitudes and
opinions are opposed to ours. The solution to this is to be conscious that if we
are there it is because we are meant to be. We have to learn to maintain our
equilibrium and go ahead with our work in spite of adverse conditions. We
all want to travel by boat on a calm sea, but it isn’t always like that. Besides,
this sea is talking about us, these situations are talking about us, these
unbearable people are talking about us and of all the work we have still to do.
There is no difference: our interior work is reflected in our exterior work.
Our exterior work is reflected in our interior work, this is why I only talk
about work in general and not interior work.
It has always been said work is health; integral health (physical, mental,
emotional and spiritual). If we don’t have health and peace it is because we
are not doing our work well.
FIFTH PRINCIPLE: BE KIND TO OTHERS
Kindness comes from the heart. If we can reach our heart, kindness will
blossom alone and we won’t have to pretend it.
Our behaviour towards others is a reflection of our own story, because we
always walk with fear, blocks, anger, jealousy, and resentments that we have
been accumulating and not let go of. Those emotions that hide and prevent
love towards oneself and others.
Looking for kindness is like looking for gold. We dig a well and go deeper
and deeper inside, going beyond non valuable materials, through darkness,
trusting that beyond the hard work, effort and time spent and everything that
has made us dirty, one day we will reach the seam of gold. We will take it to
the surface, and our whole life will change. We will be much richer, more
illuminated, much more generous, and much more grateful and we will share
our riches and joy.
Once we have found the gold, soon we will forget the hours of hardship and
darkness.
What are we doing stuck in a dark mine, full of harmful materials? The best
option that comes to mind is to complain, to fill ourselves with reproaches,
resentment, aggression and desperation, thinking that nothing will get any
better.
What should one do? We repeat, go beyond the darkness, let go of and
leave behind anything that is not gold. Unload the wagons of this useless
material that is holding us back, that stops us and harms us. Continue
advancing, not living at any one level until gold arrives, until we fill
ourselves with the light that exists in everyone’s heart, and of course in our
own heart too. Then from the richness of our hearts we will set out on a new
life.
 So many people took part in voyages to the Indies, or in the gold rush, or in
the American Dream, etc. people living in poverty who searched in distant
lands not only for a better life but to live with great riches.
This is the same journey, a journey in which wherever we are we can set
forth and whatever our level of life, we will enrich ourselves and all those
around us.
“Being kind to others” is realizing that we get back what we give. It is in
understanding that it is within in our hands to change the vibration of the
planet. Being kind to others is being aware of the love and appreciation that
life itself has for us as human beings. It is to understand that even though
others move in darkness, and with harmful materials, that can even
contaminate and hurt us, within them is purest love and that we shouldn’t
fight against them because they have not yet reached it.
Being kind is to be patient with every one we meet in that underground
passage. There is gold for everyone. Everyone has it within them. Showing it,
being kind is a call for all those who seek it. If others have found it, we can
too, and if we find it, others will begin their search. Reiki is the glow of love
that shines from our eyes, our words, our hands and our hearts. Once we have
conquered this last principle we will give Reiki constantly because simply we
cannot stop doing it. Its energy will flow in us constantly and we will have
conquered the secret of happiness and health.

THE FIVE PRINCIPLES AS A PATH OF INITIATION

The path of initiation is one that every one of us has to walk alone. One only
has to confront the ghosts of the past to realize that they are only shadows
and shadows disappear in the light. From there comes the need to internalize,
to go inside and take the light to every dark corner.
We can fight against reality forever as long as we remain unaware that the
exterior is talking of our shadows.
The “five principles” are a path of initiation that begins in conflict (Don’t
get angry) and takes us to the heart (Be kind). Welcome to the path!
They are not only a group of precepts, in this passage through our negative
emotions, passing by our fears, it is work that connects us with our source
from which come feelings like peace, gratitude and love.
 Notice that the order in which the five principles are written has special
significance. This order is not usually mentioned or people were not aware of
it.
“Only for today” is the only place we are, where we feel, where we see, do
and think.
When we get angry it is because we are judging or comparing reality with a
preconceived idea of how things ought to be.
How can we adapt reality to our mental blueprint of how things should be?
It is easier to accept reality as it is. We have to realize that in a common
situation of scolding where a figure of authority intervenes, like a parent, a
boss, a trainer, or similar, and their subordinates, like sons, employees, or
sportspeople, each person will react in their own, different way. One will
become motivated, another discouraged, one will get angry, another will be
pleased, and yet another will remain indifferent.
So, if the facts are the same, the same people, in the same mood, attitude
and energy, why is it that one of them gets angry and another doesn’t? The
answer lies in our background or personal history.
Our anger talks to us, not of what is happening, but of ourselves and what
happened to us. Anger is a call from some part of us that needs to be healed.
In this path of initiation, as in all paths, each step takes us back to what was
before. Every reproach and resentment ties us to the past and holds us back
from moving forward. Just let it go, otherwise we would live a life focused
on the past.
To help us not to get angry, we have the following principle: “Don’t
worry”. Whenever it comes to your mind that somebody said something to
you, did something to you, tried to get away with something, when you think
that you are right, when you’ve lost everything, when somebody doesn’t like
you, when whatever... - Don’t worry.
Once we have let go of all these encumbrances and everything that holds us
back, we will understand the root of our anger, dig deep to find it, and bring it
out into the light.
When we have let go of the past, our pace might be stopped by fear of the
future, for what it might bring or for what might happen. These fears can be
conditioned by the past or by other people. It doesn’t matter, the fact is that
they are here and totally condition our life.
Let us imagine that we have a terrible fear that our partner will be unfaithful
to us, but this fear is unfounded. Everything is fine with our partner and they
love us. However, we convert our life and our partner´s life into a kind of
hell.
We start hounding them, where have you been? Who have you been with?
Why are you smiling at that person? We spy on them on their computer and
on their mobile phones. How do we embrace or kiss someone we believe is
being unfaithful to us or who we think is going to cheat on us? Apart from
becoming a more unpleasant, angry and controlling person, we block the
exchange of love. Then it is only a question of time for the relationship to
begin to fall apart until it dies. And all this came about from a thought
charged with power and energy. A thought in itself is not real, but in the end
it grows into a reality. A thought about separation, nourished with all our
being, becomes a real separation.
There are those who realize and then do internal work and by changing
themselves they make all their relationships much better. Then there are those
who don’t, and these situations reinforce their idea that they are right, their
hearts harden even more and their mistrust grows.
How would we be with our partner if we didn’t have these feelings of
jealousy? What would our relationship be like if we were focused on positive
thoughts? Well, this is how it is with everything.
What can we do to avoid worrying? Apply the principle: be grateful.
I’m afraid you will leave me: “I’m grateful you are with me today”.
I’m frightened I will be fired: “I’m glad I have this job today”.
I am afraid of being alone: “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be by myself
and to learn to love myself or to have the chance to be free to find another
better love”.
I’m afraid I won’t find work: “I am grateful for this time to be with myself,
to discover what my real vocation is, what my dreams are and to go for
them”.
I don’t deserve this: “I am glad to have this today for all that it teaches and
brings me”.
Once we have gone through all this, now that we can see how anger and
worries immobilize us or sabotage our life because of a fatalistic future fear,
then what is left? The eternal present.
The following three principles can only be carried out in the present.
Gratitude is a gesture of humility towards everything life brings us. Life is
given and we take it with gratitude. Each person is a connection of love,
which reflects our interior. Our gratitude towards them is for showing us
unknown aspects of ourselves. Aspects of ourselves we need to recognize,
polish or heal.
How can we be more grateful?
Let’s look at the next principle. “Be diligent in your work”.
Be thankful for doing things for others, within your possibilities and in a
proportionate way. We work on ourselves for our benefit and for the benefit
of others.
Work is action. Action develops through what we are doing at the moment,
whatever it is we are doing. If giving Reiki, then give Reiki. If painting, well,
then paint. If cooking, just cook. If reading, then read, etc.
Work is always giving something good or good service to others or to
ourselves.
How can we be more diligent in our work?
We turn to the last principle: “Be kind to others”.
We are not cleaning the house just because it is dirty. We are creating a
clean and organized place so that we ourselves and others will be better there.
We are improving the quality of life for all. We don’t just drive a bus for the
wages. We should see that we are taking people places, giving them dreams
and helping them, etc.
Every action has repercussions on others. We shouldn’t lose sight of the
idea that deep within ourselves in our work we are collaborating in making a
much better world for others.
How can we be kinder to others?
Let’s close the circle and go back to our first principle: “Don’t get angry”.
It’s easy to be kind to nice, normal people. But if people are difficult,
unpleasant or aggressive, these are just the kind of people who make us
angry.
Once we know the nature of the conflict from where we begin our journey,
and the root of our worries, we will begin to live with gratitude, doing good
work and reaching the heart. When we get to the heart, we reach the hearts of
others. Then affection, appreciation, compassion and the most exquisite
kindness will arise in the most natural way.
Once we have found the way of the heart, and having dared to follow it, the
transformation will take place. We will radiate more energy and be happier,
without having any apparent reason.
The “five principle” will transform us and our life. We only have to dare to
do it, to get rid of our anger without worrying about the results, being grateful
for the opportunity, carrying out our tasks backed by this philosophy of love
and light, letting the love in our hearts flow out to others.
Welcome to the path.

GASSHO MEDITATION OF THE FIVE PRINCIPLES

To become good and complete practitioners of Reiki, once

we have understood the “five principles” we need to meditate on them
morning and night so that we have them with us always. To see their
potential results, we must trust in them and work on them every day. Then we
will receive all their benefits. Without this daily work, simply reciting them
from memory if anyone asks us to is of no use at all. The benefits consist of
having a happy life and avoiding illness, and that I think makes it worth the
effort.
This constant daily work creates discipline and the fostering of a mind
which little by little becomes purer and more stable. These are conditions that
undoubtedly favour our mental and physical health and all aspects of our
lives.
Gassho meditation, with the palms of hands together on the “five
principles” done in the morning raises our vibration, makes us feel better and
more ready to deal with the day ahead.
At night, it works as a cleansing process, purifying us of everything we
have been accumulating during the day, and ridding us of damaging tensions
and negative emotions.
 Gassho meditation is the principal meditation and consists of putting the
hands at heart level and meditating on it. The heart is the driving force of the
body and from there we reach the rest of the body. It is also our emotional
centre which is why it is important to keep it cleansed and balanced.
Another thing about this meditation is that by putting our hands together we
are connecting the energy that flows from the right side (rational , strong,
structured, logical) with the energy from the left (intuitive, receptive, flexible,
creative) making a union where before there was duality, and harmonising
both hemispheres of the brain.
To start, sit with the back straight, with the hands together at the level of the
heart and breathe in through the tips of the fingers. This air and energy passes
through the hands, the forearms, arms, shoulders, and reaches the heart.
When we breathe out we direct our intention to moving the air and energy in
the opposite direction (heart, shoulders, arms, forearms and hands).
Every beat of the heart is a hug of love. Love for life and all beings. We
meditate listening to the heart as a drumbeat that celebrates life. We observe
how calmly and serenely it beats, as well as its strength and speed. If it seems
too fast, we can say mentally “my heart is beating calmly” and our heart will
slow down.
Even thought the meditation is centered on the heart, breathing should be
deep and should fill all the abdomen, ribs and chest, following this order.
This order is reversed while exhaling, (emptying first the top of the chest,
then the ribs and abdomen).
In a few minutes the body begins to relax, breathing becomes deeper and
gentler, we feel calmer and a pleasant warmth begins to suffuse our body.
Then we can choose to remain in this state or carry on with the following
steps of the meditation.
First step. We ask the energy to enter through our hands and by breathing
in we make it flow to the heart, cleansing it of all anger. The energy trapped
and held back by anger is moved and by exhaling the energy leaves through
the hands. If we notice any type of tension in another part of the body, from
our heart we can redirect our intention and let Reiki flow, releasing tension
and relaxing the area in question.
Second step. Then we go on to cleanse ourselves of our worries and fears.
We inhale light and energy and exhale any worries there might be in our
hearts. Once the heart is cleansed we can then move on to whatever part of
the body needs attention.
Third step. Fill the heart with gratitude, feel grateful for the energy and for
the life that we constantly receive. We inhale light and energy and expand our
gratitude. With every breath we charge the heart with more and more light
and energy. We visualize a ball of energy which grows bigger and bigger as
we inhale and then as we exhale it shrinks but becomes more concentrated
and at the same time it projects the energy of gratitude. This ball of energy
always grows more than it shrinks, so that at the beginning it is only a small
point but as we do it better, it encompasses the heart, the whole chest, all of
the body, the room, the entire house, our country and our planet. Our
gratitude also expands; gratitude for our body, our life, for those around us,
for family, for friends, for work, our region, our country, the Earth, the
universe.
Fourth step. We fill ourselves with strength and happiness revitalizing
ourselves working outwards from our heart to every cell of our being.
Cleansing, getting rid of tension or traumas, repairing, reconstructing, and
raising the vibrations. We feel energy circulating freely through all our body.
Then we think about our aims, the work we have to do, we feel it and give it
strength and energy.
Fifth step. Finally we allow the love that has blossomed in our heart to
flow. We experience our heart as a small sun that little by little, warms,
illuminates and fills every part of our body with life. We seek to find the love
or compassion in our heart and then to feel it in our body and then a little
later, we let it flow out towards all the Earth.
Once we have done this, we raise our hands together up towards our head
until they rest gently on our forehead and then we recite the “five principles”.
Next, we lower our hands back to the level of our heart and stay in that
position for a few minutes in silence, enjoying the state we have reached or
simply noticing how we feel.
Finally we bow gently forward in a gesture of gratitude and respect for our
own life and destiny, and those of others, before the Spiritual Masters who
teach and help us so much.

AN EXERCISE ON THE FIVE PRINCIPLES

Apart from the daily double meditation, we can take every day of the week to
train ourselves on one specific principle, keeping it in our consciousness all
day.
On Mondays make a firm commitment not to get angry for any reason at
all. Let it be the day when nothing gets to us. Then we will have the
experience of knowing what happens if we don’t get angry in situations
which usually make us angry.
On Tuesdays no worrying at all, as if we were about to die and nothing can
worry us anymore now. Be sure that the world will carry on as it always has
without us having to contribute our thoughts, full of fears and worries.
Wednesday is a great day to be grateful for everything and everyone. Every
word has its vibration. Be conscious of the words “thank you”, so as not to
say them in an automatic way. We should ask that grace embrace every
person we say thank you to. In this way every time we say thank you, our
internal intention is saying “blessings”, may this person also share in the
good vibrations of those above. And always be consciously grateful for the
life we are living.
On Thursday be especially conscious of our work, and its contribution to
the world, or the work we want to develop and what it will bring us and
others.
On Friday we train ourselves especially on our kindness. We are the kindest
people in the world. Like the runner who always goes the same distance and
one day he decides to go a little further, what would happen if today we
decided to be a little kinder and more caring?
The final aim is that we always keep the five principles uppermost in our
mind and then our lives will be simply marvellous.
 TEACHINGS

INTRODUCTION
When Master Usui observed a squirrel, a dog, a man running in the street, a
hare, a storm, or any other normal daily sight, he quickly took advantage of
the opportunity to explain an important lesson to his students which would
touch their souls, one that they would never forget.
The teaching was linked to the object in question and so by means of
memory association each time the students saw it again, they would
automatically remember the lesson.
This is a great way to teach and what follows are some of these stories,
anecdotes and teachings.

THE PLUM BLOSSOM

One day walking with his disciples in the countryside, he found a plum
flower, and said to them, this flower has served its purpose and now it has
fallen. Separated from the tree all it can do now is die.
The energy is our tree and encouraging its fruit is our mission. Once we
fulfill our destiny, we will return to the earth to continue the cycle.
Our work is the work of energy, not of a carpenter, a fireman, a policeman
or a farmer. Next to energy, everything else is so pointless, so small. Only the
elite work with energy, only the visionaries, those who go ahead of their
brothers.
Money is not energy, neither is it love nor happiness. We are conditioned to
worry constantly about money. We are made to believe that only by having
more money are we going to live better lives. But it is the contact with our
soul and with the souls of those around us that brings us a better quality of
life.
Only by living from soul to soul, and having contact with the energy can we
be really happy. This happiness cannot be bought. The happiness that money
buys is like that of a spoilt and whimsical child, unreliable and fragile.
Getting fast results has never been a good thing to work for. Be patient and
continue working, because the results will always be seen in the long term.
 While you are not at one with God, while you are not happy, keep on
practicing every day. Trust in the “five principles”, be more faithful to them
than to your own mind.
Let us be humble enough to understand that we don’t know everything and
that by dedicating ourselves to some higher practices things will always go
much better.
Set out on your path, this is the way to be happier.
A happier world begins with you being happier. Your happiness begins
with following some valid, reliable and effective principles and through a real
connection with the spiritual energy which links you with your true essence.

THE SQUIRREL
The squirrel is an intelligent animal; it accumulates food when it’s available
so that it has a store in time of shortage.
Human beings should do the same. They should accumulate spiritual merits
for later, to be more comfortable when their winter comes.
People sing, drink and eat thinking that spring is eternal.
The saddest thing is when people see they have become old and they realize
they have done nothing with their lives. Many take a barren and dead path
and stay on it thinking that is just the way things are and that’s the life they
were given to live.
One can change direction at any time and plant flowers, so that when
someone else takes the barren path then it will be radiantly beautiful.

THE HARE
Passing through a wood, a hare jumped out and the master asked:
Why is the hare running?
Because it is frightened of us - the students replied.
And I ask you, why does your mind run so fast?

THE DOG
Once when walking through a wood, Usui sensei came across an injured dog
in a ditch. While people passed by unperturbed, he went over to it and laid his
two big hands on the dog. His students were astonished to see how their great
master, for whom they had so much veneration and respect, go to the side of
the road to care for a stray dog. They watched uneasily hoping that no one
they knew would see them.
Usui sensei said to them:
Wherever a creature is suffering is where Reiki comes in. We shouldn’t be
snobs, selecting who we are going to give it to and who doesn’t deserve it.
The light of God is for all creatures equally.

THE BIRD
The bird is at the door but doesn’t knock.
If you open the door, he will fly away.

WORRY
Old Pachel could never sleep, he was always worrying. One day Usui sensei
went to visit him and asked him:
How much of your worrying changed man’s destiny? Your worries cannot
change the journey of each soul. Be calm, for what happens to everyone is
good for them even though it is death itself.

ANGER
One day Usui sensei was walking along the road with his students when a
young man ran past them his face showing how shaken he was. Men ran
behind him, shouting and waving sticks.
Mikao Usui asked what was happening and they answered that Mr. Sando
wanted to kill the young man because he wanted to marry his daughter to a
noble man and he had found her with this young man “who was a nobody”.
Usui sensei said:
Before getting angry we should consider the consequences of our actions.
Anger is a runaway horse that one should never mount.

PATIENCE
Patience is an excellent quality. Patience is keeping yourself centered even
when everything is going badly, keeping your calm when everyone is against
you.
Once the storm has passed and you have not fought against it, you will feel
rewarded for not having wasted your energy on useless battles.
 We all have a bad day from time to time.
A bad day for someone can be a great annoyance but why try to calm it or
fight against it?
We want to live in a perfect world and when someone breaks this perfection
with their sadness, anger or worries, all our alarms go off. Really we are not
so worried about the state of that person as in the effects of this disturbance
on our life, by running away from it, fighting or trying to persuade the other
person to change.
Sure, someone may have something against you. Sure, they can get angry
with you. Sure, they can reproach you. Sure, they want to change you. This is
why our main work is patience.
When we get angry with someone, in fact we are angry with ourselves.
When we are afraid of something in fact we are afraid of ourselves. When we
want to change something about someone else, in fact we have to change
something about ourselves.
So, let them express pain, violence, fear, manipulation, and don’t try to sort
out everything. Don’t try to defend yourself. Be respectful of the emotional
state of others.
Respect the storm in each hailstone, in each violent downpour, in each flash
of lightening and in each crash of thunder. Sure, the storm can chill you, soak
you and even strike you, so protect yourself when necessary and just wait for
the sun to come out again.
What use is it to fight against the elements or against the emotional states of
man?
Just accept, respect and with patience, let things pass. It is childish to curse
the thunderclaps, because everything has its purpose. Don’t take things
personally. Everyone has their own work and only they can do it for
themselves.

PARDON
I forgive you because in eternity I will always end up forgiving you.
I forgive you because eternity has always been my brother.

HAPPINESS
Life passes by very quickly and is full of bitter moments and enjoyable
moments. Happiness does not depend so much on the happy moments you
have, but on the happy moments you provoke in others. You are not more
important than them. Consider that and take it into account.
When you seek only your own happiness you isolate yourself and leave the
system.
If you don’t think globally and about everyone your plans will only bring
downfall and loss in the long term.

GRATITUDE
Once when Usui sensei was on the terrace of his house, an old friend of the
family came to visit him. He had a basket full of plums and wanted to share
them with him. Usui sensei felt very grateful for this gesture and invited him
to stay for lunch. During the meal Mikao Usui served the guest to repay him
for the simple gesture from the heart.
Not only am I grateful for ten, twenty or a hundred plums, but also I thank
you for the kind gesture to me from your heart.
More important than the gift is the intention behind it, and more important
than giving educated thanks is expressing a great flow of gratitude from the
heart.

COMMUNICATION
Communication can be effective, non effective or deceptive. When someone
lies, the energy of the person becomes blocked and closed. When someone
tells the truth, energy is higher and flows freely. Each word and message has
a vibration and energy. The intention of the message also has an intention and
energy.
 If we were more aware of “feeling” information than merely hearing it,
memorizing it and thinking it over nobody could lie to us. If everyone paid
attention to feeling, there would be no more lying.
When we feel what the other person is saying, we can understand even
without words.
Working with energy is to come down from “thinking” (head) to “feeling”
(heart). Energy is something you feel, not think.
Our communication is incomplete because we only pay attention to the
sound. Communication will be much more complete when we respond to the
words, emotions and intentions, even though sometimes they may conflict or
appear incoherent.
It isn’t easy living in a world where the truth is not told, where one feels
one thing and says another and where we only hear the words.

GRANDMOTHER SAFUNE
Grandmother Safune suffered from great pain in her back and contorted limbs
because of osteoarthritis.
We took care of her for several weeks and little by little her spastic muscles
loosened up. At the end of the treatment she could walk on her own feet and
her pains had gone.
We should never consider any case impossible. Only God knows the
results. We just have to serve him and his light.

SMALLNESS
The greatness of a person comes from their smallness. From the smallness of
a seed, its development and constant growth, it becomes a great tree.
Those who think themselves to be great no longer grow.

STRENGTH
Strength comes from resistance and not losing heart. Strength is more in
determination and not letting yourself go rather than in losing muscle or
using brute force.

MEDITATION OF THE SEVEN BUDDHAS

Introduction
When we are in front of a master, it is best to remain in silence. The state of
the master will elevate our consciousness and the high vibrations will cleanse
our aura and our body.
Preliminary exercise
We can do an exercise prior to the “meditation of the seven buddhas”, that
consists of imagining that in front of us there is a master (a Buddha, a saint or
similar); Master Usui himself, for example. Simply be near this great being in
silence. Let ourselves be flooded with his energy and remain in silence as
long as we can. There is no need to invoke him, to speak to him, to explain to
him or to ask him questions. All is vibration, let his vibration correct ours.
The “meditation of the seven Buddhas” is very similar to this exercise,
except that each buddha instead of having a very high level, has a special gift
to transmit to us. This is one of Mikao Usui’s favourite meditations.
Meditation on the seven Buddhas
We sit and meditate and:
1. Above us is sitting the Buddha who connects us with higher levels and
brings us blessings from above. He teaches us that we should always be
connected to our superior essence.
2. In front of us is seated the Buddha of compassion. He teaches us that
ahead of us are our actions and that we must always do them from the heart.
3. Behind us is the Buddha of strength and protection. He covers our back
and teaches us that strength always comes from behind us, from what we do
not see (the back) towards what we see (the front of the body) from the
invisible to the visible, from the spirit towards matter.
4. On our right sits the Buddha of Truth, of Light, of Sincerity. Lies and
treachery always seek to remain hidden and move in darkness. We should
always go with truth, to bring light and to be always in light.
5. On our left sits the Buddha of courage and bravery. What sense does it
make to have wisdom, truth, strength and compassion if we dare not do
something or dare not stop doing something?
6. Beneath us is the presence of the Buddha of stability, serenity,
temperance and equilibrium.
7. Finally, and of equal importance, in the centre, inside of us, is the
Buddha of consciousness and awakening.
As we incorporate Buddha into our meditation more and more, we
shouldn’t forget what we already have. We have to feel all seven at the same
time, in each direction and with each quality.
 This meditation helps us to develop our spiritual connection, our
compassion, our truth, our courage, our strength, our serenity and our
consciousness. It also harmonizes us, balances us, raises our level of
consciousness and the level of vibration of the place we are in.
Sometimes it feels as if when we come out of the meditation these Buddhas
continue to be with us, like a group of bodyguards.
Exercise 1: Try to give Reiki surrounded by our seven Buddhas or by
surrounding the receiver with them.
Exercise 2: We can be especially conscious of one Buddha for a whole day.
There is one for every day of the week.
 THE 125 GYOSEIS OR POEMS OF EMPEROR
MEIJI. INTRODUCTION

We can make contact with our soul, our heart and our feelings through
poetry. Profound, well written poetry can put us in touch with forgotten parts
of our being and can make us more complete. Someone who writes good
poetry with good principals, with beauty and feeling, raises their levels of
vibration and when it is shared, contributes some of the beauty and wisdom
of their soul. Poetry is fond of people.
Samurais9 were not only skilled in the art of war, but also were great
scholars and followers of poetry. From childhood, Master Usui, as a
descendent of a Samurai family and a person educated in good schools, had a
strong link with the world of poetry. Of all the poets, Mikao Usui was
especially devoted to Emperor Meiji, a great wise man who wrote thousands
of “waka” poems.
Waka is a very brief and precise form of poetry. Its beauty comes from the
evocation of an image in a form based on only 31 syllables, with a 5-7-5-7-7
syllable pattern. Like little jewels, these wakas are small in size, but of great
ethical and moral value.
The wakas written by the Emperor are known as “gyoseis”.
Of the thousand of poems by Emperor Meiji, Mikao Usui put together a
compilation of 125 gyoseis for his students to recite and study, because he
considered that theoretical and practical knowledge was not enough and that
there should always be moral training too. He made sure that he provided his
students with a good start so that they would always be an example to
society.
The gyoseis were written in ancient Japanese and in translation processes,
some of the original subtleties and sense can be lost.
Once again, I felt the need to call on the help of the Akashic Records both
in the choice of wording and in explaining them. Also, I would like to point
out that wakas are poems without rhyme.
Of course when you read them, you shouldn’t read them all at once. Each
poem should be meditated on until it is integrated into the mind and heart,
looking for all the possible applications within us, in our relations with others
and even at a more global level.
See and feel the main idea or concept. Digest each one over several days
until you have explored them completely and got as much as you can from
them, then you will understand the great treasure you now have in your
hands.
The wisdom is immortal and can be applied independently of era, culture,
or fashion. Trust in these poems and let them take you to a special place,
where more harmony, balance, nobleness and happiness exists.
In note number 10 of this book, we show ways of selecting poems at
random, of finding the poem of the day, or discovering your personal poetry.

THE 125 POEMS OF EMPEROR MEIJI

1. The Moon
Moon on an autumn night
remains impassive regardless
of change and all the people
who have gone from this world.
Explanation: The seasons of the year come and go bringing with them their
changes. Now it is like this, tomorrow it will be something else.
Life exceeds our own lifetime, within a hundred years none of our family,
friends, neighbours, or strangers will be here, absolutely everyone will have
gone. And life will continue driving others, and after them, others.
On Earth everything is change. Mikao Usui, just like most of us had years
of solitude, years of family, friends and colleagues. Years of economic
prosperity, years of crisis and no employment. Years of peace and years of
war and earthquakes. Years of health and years of aging and illness.
He accepted all changes, and in the midst of adversity, carried on in his
spiritual search (the moon, the profound) always in the same spirit, staying
firm in his principles.
In the midst of change, he always supported the immutable. There is no
change in truth in spite of the seasons and it will not change in a hundred
years or a thousand million years.
2. The Sky
 As the great heavens
of green meadows
so my heart yearns to be
as broad and light.
Explanation: The great wise men were sure that vain desires for riches,
power or sex were of no value. They also knew that the engine, the driving
force of life should always be full of the fuel of motivation, inspiration and
the desire to reach higher objectives.
If a wish is granted who should say no? A superior man wouldn’t ask for
anything except a pure and very big heart.
3. Heat
When I think of those working
in the paddy fields
I cannot complain
about the hot and humid weather.
Explanation: When we complain about something, we should think of those
who are worse off than us. This takes away the importance from our childish
complaint; it removes us from our narrow and egocentric vision that brings us
suffering and anxiety. It will make us take a broader vision, where others are
included and will open our heart to gratitude and compassion.
4. The Wind of the Falling Leaves
To turn red
the leaf of the maple
needs much rain
yet in a moment
on a whim
the wind carries it far away.
Explanation: Great work and projects that take years of work can be lost in
an instant. We shouldn’t cling on to anything in this changing world. One day
we build a house and another day it is destroyed by floods or an earthquake.
Once we had a great love and then we lost it. Once we had a harvest then it
was destroyed by frost. Once... and then it was carried far away on the wind.
5. The Droplet
When I see stone
 worn away by drops of rain
I dismiss the idea
that learning is difficult.
Explanation: Hours of practice, with persistence and perseverance as our
difficult companions are needed to achieve challenging goals. Overcoming
difficulty then will only be a question of more time and dedication.
6. Mistakes
There is no resentment towards heaven
or blaming others for what’s happening
when I am conscious
of my own errors.
Explanation: It is very easy to point a finger at others, and at the same time
difficult to stop looking outside for somewhere to lay the blame.
When the car doesn’t run smoothly, we don’t blame God, or others. We
open the bonnet and look inside. We fix whatever was wrong and everything
works well again. It should be like that with ourselves.
7. Blame
We all feel the guilt at some time.
Don’t worry too much about it.
The world is full of this feeling.
Explanation: Life is often like a game of chess. One gets wiser after making
many bad moves and losing many games. We get better every day by
learning from our mistakes. The best chess player is the one who has lost
thousands of games. The worst is the one who lost a game and then for fear
of losing never plays again. We all mistakes. We shouldn’t be so hard on
ourselves.
We shouldn’t be too obsessed by mistakes made by others because then it is
very easy to fill our hearts with resentment and reproach.
This poem gives us knowledge to unburden us from our guilt and fears.
8. The Friend
In friendship
the true spirit
is present when you can
show your errors
 without fear of causing offense.
Explanation: A good, deep friendship is not just about enjoying the good
moments, but also a source of mutual aid and support, revealing attitudes and
thoughts, with the occasional telling off.
Support like this is a great treasure; it makes us improve and mutually
strengthens us more quickly.
9. The Pine on the Rock
As the pine deeply rooted in the rock,
so I wish my heart and the minds of people to be
when the world turns stormy .
Explanation: There are many days of good weather and only a few storms,
but knowing that we will go through more storms in the future (mental,
emotional, emergencies or crises) we will face up to them with a serene,
strong and firm spirit.
10. The Wave
In the ocean,
sometimes there are angry waves
sometimes the waves are gentle.
So are people too.
Explanation: Sometimes at a given moment we may form an impression of
someone, but in fact we don’t know them until we see them in all their
different emotional states. Neither can we judge a person, for just one
moment of turbulence. We all have depth, strength and beauty.
11. Obligations
Even though you and your family
have no problems
as a human being
never disregard all your obligations.
Explanation: Normally we are ready to help when someone in our family or
a friend has some kind of problem. But when everything is going well, we
forget about others. We should always remember that there are many people
living in much worse conditions than us who also need our help.
We should also be aware that the world changes when we change ourselves
and our change always consists of working for the good of everyone, not only
for those close to us and ourselves but also for the rest of our society.
12. Siblings
We are distanced from family tradition
when we forget to treat each other
as brothers and sisters.
Explanation: Traditional values never go out of fashion because they are
the fundamental basis of good coexistence in families or in any human group
(honour, generosity, friendship, confidence, support, understanding,
education and love, among others)
When we distance ourselves from these traditional values, we begin to live
in disharmony.
13. The Heart
I will keep my heart
always full and open.
No matter what happens
during my life.
Explanation: In life things are always changing but our interior work to
spread abundant love from the heart in each thought, word or gesture is
always the same. This is the only way we will transform ourselves and little
by little, our world.
No one has a life that always runs smoothly and without problems, which is
why it is so important not to be distracted and always to stay focused on our
true goal.
If things go well, we are fine, if they go badly, we feel bad. How long do
we go on like that? The true human being has an immobile base, always
doing their work with love and gratitude, whatever the circumstances.
14. Medicine
Instead of seeking doctors and medicine
Listen to your body and care for it.
Explanation: We eat food lacking in vitality, food full of chemical
additives, and we keep on eating them. We know that exercise and the
healthy air of the countryside are good for our health but we avoid it. We
have sedentary and unhealthy life habits and we are egoistic, fearful and
resentful. Then we wonder why have I got a headache? Why do I catch so
many colds? Why does my back hurt? Maybe if I go to the doctor he’ll
prescribe me something.
This poem doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t go to the doctor any more, but
that we have to take more responsibility for our bodies.
15. Mosquitos
When night falls
And mosquitos begin to buzz
I wonder how my soldiers will pass the night.
Explanation: Many people are working for us either directly or indirectly. I
cannot I throw litter on the pavement when I think of the road sweeper. When
I see a taxi or a bus and realize that they work all day in traffic, I can only be
polite towards them when I am driving my car. How is the policeman who
watches out for our security this cold night? What time did the baker get up
today? We are not conscious of so many people that work in one way or
another for us. And, if I have someone working directly for me, what is their
life like? How is their family? What are their working conditions like?
We need to think about all the people who work hard for us.
16. Education
Young japanese girl,
choose a virtuous person as your model
and grow under the influence
of this person’s good lessons.
Explanation: We need to learn from those who are virtuous and not just
wise. A person who has a great deal of knowledge but who does not set an
example in his life is not a suitable person to educate our sons and daughters.
In the West too much importance is given to titles, diplomas, image and
appearances.
Beyond the external facade, a virtuous person is one who practices what he
preaches. This is the kind of person who provides a good model to young
people who are beginning to become integrated people who are of value in all
senses.
17. The Flowers of the Lake
How wonderful it is to see
how the flowers near the lake,
 when they fall, they float
beautifying the water.
Explanation: Once we are dead, what will people say about us? Will we
have done great things which will carry on in time? Will we continue to be
good examples for following generations? Will it be beautiful to remember us
or will we fall like a stone in the dark waters of the forgotten?
18. The Glow Worm and the Moon
In the great light of the moon
reflected in the pond
the glow worm can only hide
between the reeds.

Explanation: Many people consider themselves to be very spiritual because

they have meditated for many years; they read books about Tibet, chant
mantras, perhaps they have intuitive dreams, perhaps they see auras, perhaps
they are gifted with clairvoyance, or have done many mystic – quantum
courses. Often they present themselves with false humility but deep down
they believe they deserve to be admired for how good they are, or for their
achievements or their wisdom.
Compared to the true light of the great higher levels of consciousness, to the
great light of the masters and guides, the great light of God, the truly
spiritual, we are no more than little insects, who with a great deal of effort
manage to shine a little, bringing a minute quantity of light to our vast world.
We will come to realize that all this allows us to maintain sincere humility
and know our place in the world.
19. The Jewel
Every jewel should be free
Of even the tiniest speck of dust
To preserve its shine and splendor.
Explanation: Our jewel is our heart that must stay clean and pure so that it
can be appreciated in all its plenitude. Each day we should reflect on and
understand the things that make it shine and the things that darken it. Thus
with constant, daily work we will keep it clean and bright and far from the
dust of egoism or sadness.
We can be both sad and egoistical in one day, but if we leave them in our
heart to accumulate, the sad days and the egoistical days little by little our life
will become sad, hopeless and miserable.
So it is important to be aware and very demanding of the smallest details,
and never, for any reason, let anything that will lower or sully us install itself
within our hearts.
20. The Path to Learning
Young student,
take your time.
The path to learning is long.
Travel it calmly and serenely.
Explanation : Learning should first be absorbed by the mind, take a while
to reach the heart and then in its practice, after many months or years, little
by little it will enter our muscles, our bones, reaching the very core of our
being. Then one can continue and advance to the next level of teaching.
21. Honour
However busy the world
honour your parents.
They gave you life.
Explanation: Whatever happens, family always comes first. Our parents
should have priority and we should always be ready to help them in the best
way possible. One day we too may be elderly parents needing to be helped by
our children. Filial love must always grow.
22. Grass.
You look at the grass
thinking it to be insignificant.
But look more carefully,
you may discover medicinal plants.
Explanation: We can benefit from everything, everything can teach us
something. If we keep our eyes open, we will discover that there is some
good in everything. Everything that we don’t like or look down on has a
purpose for us.
 If for example, we are waiting for a friend on a corner, instead of huffing
and puffing, complaining and looking at our watch to see how much time we
are wasting when there are so many things to do we could ask ourselves,
“what is good about this situation?”, then we can allow ourselves to slowly
observe people passing by, nearby shops or ourselves, how we are and what
affects us. Maybe we will understand or see something that helps us.
How many times have we suffered because a relationship that never was or
that has broken down? We could assume that nothing is of value because
nothing worked out, but we have to look, look deeply and thoroughly until
we find little details that hadn’t occurred to us before. Details that help us to
know ourselves, to find out how we relate to people and to learn how to
improve ourselves. Then they become great allies that give us strength,
courage and help us to overcome suffering (the medicinal part).
23. The Qualified
You think
you have finished learning
but true learning is ongoing
and lasts a lifetime.
Explanation: We long for a qualification or some specific ability, we study
and work hard for it, but then… what happens when we have achieved it?
Many people then just settle down in their own personal comfort zone and
there they stay. There’s no longer an obligation to better yourself or learn
something else to be able to live your daily life. This is a phase called
“stagnation” and we recognize it as we see the years passing by and realize
we are always doing the same things and that every year is the same.
The spirit of permanent self improvement should always be with us.
Evolution never stops and learning should never stop either.
There are always ways of improving ourselves as people, ways of
developing better qualities, of offering more quality, of growing and helping
others, of improving a technique, of developing more intuition, of being
friendlier or of improving our way with words. We can learn from others how
to develop new ways to do what we do, with better or quicker results.
24. Carnations
I took a handful of seeds
 thinking they were all the same
but the carnations flowered
in the garden, in a multitude of colours.
Explanation: We all have the same education, but we don’t all develop in
the same way. Each person enriches the world with his way of being, like
flowers in all their variety that make the garden beautiful.
25. The Waterfall
The stone in the rush of water
produces a such deafening sound
that it makes it impossible
to hear the rush or anything at all.
Explanation: The flow of events is never perfect. There are always
unexpected obstacles that eclipse work well done.
26. Water
So flexible
water adopts all forms
so constant
water wears away stone.
Explanation: All circumstances are natural and so we have to adapt
ourselves to them: scarcity, abundance, cold, heat, work, rest, solitude, hustle
and bustle of activity, etc. We should embrace them all equally, nevertheless,
the achievement of our goals comes from our constancy, resistance and hard
work.
27. The Cultivated Field
Damn that mole!
under the ground
it has eaten all the roots,
killed everything we planted.
Explanation: We all have thoughts that sabotage our relationships and
projects. We have the enemy inside us, those feelings of being unworthy,
incapable, conformist, negative, or smallness. With those moles working in
our subsoil, few fruitful projects will see the light of day.
28. The Old Man
 An old man comes to see me.
By leaning on his grandson
he supports himself on his own feet.
Explanation: Wisdom (the aged) needs strength and action (youth) and all
strength needs to be used wisely.
29. The Mud Tree
When mud covered trees I see
I think of those who live in poverty.
Explanation: A tree can live in swampy land, neglected and wild, but it is
no less a tree than the one that lives in a beautiful garden and is well cared
for.
The dirty, muddy tree represents those people, who live neglected, in
poverty and squalor, a hard fate but still of value and deserving of respect.
We should never forget those who live in the worst of conditions.
30. A Visitor in the Snow
It has not stopped snowing
and you come to my door.
Come in, please,
draw nearer the fire.
Explanation: We should be grateful for any gesture towards us and even
more for those that imply more challenge and difficulty.
31. Calligraphy
We choose to embellish things
with beautiful words,
but a letter should always
be clear enough to understand.
Explanation: How we present ourselves and our information is always
important but we cannot be in a world where everything is about appearances
or about trying to be what one is not.
The important qualities are effectiveness, truth and fleeing from false
appearances.
32. Parents
Such is the nature of parenthood.
 However old one is
our parents always see us as children.
Explanation: It is very difficult to value someone just for their present state.
Normally we judge someone based on what they did or said a long time ago.
We like to call them “ex”: ex boyfriend/ girlfriend, ex-drug addicts, ex-
convicts, etc. and for our parents we will always be their “ex-children”.
33. War
Young men go to war
leaving behind their people, their homes.
For the love of their country
they show courage and bravery.
Explanation: How many people have to leave behind the warmth of their
home and the company of loved ones to fight for a better life or simply to
survive, which is the case of all immigrants. This also makes me think of
some students, missionaries, volunteers, scientists, etc.
34. Birds
Birds that fly far
fly free in the great skies.
But always they remember
where they came from
so that one day they can return.
Explanation: It is important to know our roots, to honour our ancestors and
the places we grew up in.
35. Learning
Watch how children learn.
The more they repeat
the better they learn and do things.
Explanation: There are students who abandon their practical classes
because they think they will never be skilled. But if something doesn’t go
well the first time, it is only a matter of doing it again and again, paying more
attention, and each time things will turn out better than before.
36. Dew on the Garden Carnations
Young students
 in the school yard
are as fresh as the dew
on the carnations in the garden.
Explanation: Youth, colours, joy, delight, are the energy of life expressing
itself.
37. Sincerity
Sincerity in the heart of man
here on earth
makes cry in heaven
the most terrible God.
Explanation: Truth raises our consciousness and fills us with light. A
sincere person has the Gods on his side.
38. Flowers
You can let yourself be enraptured by
the flowers once your work is finished.
Explanation: It is good to have time to appreciate life, beauty or simply
enjoy ourselves a little and have fun.
39. Reflection
This is how society is.
People always talking about others
without looking within themselves.
Explanation: We cannot change the world without first changing ourselves.
40. The Peak
So high is the mountain
that it seems to graze the sky.
Without stepping back
you’ll find then the path.
Explanation: Nobody said it was going to be easy. But however hard and
difficult your problems and your aims are, in the end you will realize that
those who achieve them are just those who keep on and never give up.
41. Reflection
Before you speak to others
take time to think.
 Explanation: Sometimes we are impulsive or very reactive. But we should
be like the good chess player, who always thinks ahead. What will the results
of this move be? And this? So the most suitable and successful thing to say or
do is this or that. Without reflection we can do a lot of damage or lose a great
deal.
42. Humility
If all your projects
have become reality
don’t let it go to your head
and lose humility.
Explanation: Many people have a very high opinion of themselves but then
they fall off their pedestals. Don’t consider yourselves invincible or
untouchable for destiny can sometimes be very capricious. One day we are up
and the next day down and vice versa.
43. Limitations
You can think so many things.
you can plan so many things.
But what you can actually do
in reality is so limited.
Explanation: Turning our dreams into reality is limited by our abilities,
energy, work, time or intelligence. It is true that we cannot accomplish
everything.
44. The Pine in the Snow
When the snow piles up
on the weak branch of a pine,
when the tree feels it heavy
hasten to clear it away.
Explanation: We try to fix things when it is already too late. Anticipating
things will help us to avoid situations getting worse and worse or even
becoming beyond repair. With anticipation there is always less work, so let’s
always keep our eyes open, for the snow piles up flake by flake almost
without us realizing.
Also we are reminded of the importance of helping those who are weaker
but have to bear heavy responsibilities.
 45. Memory
We remember the names
of those who fell in war
so that the homeland
lives on forever.
Explanation: Many boast of having noble or famous family names, others
hide family secrets like addiction, mental illness, abortions, suicides and
other tragic things.
Everyone participates in war (life) and we have to remember everyone. This
is the only way there can be peace in our hearts. Good - bad, victorious -
defeated, they are the same, they have all fought so that the life in all us
continues radiating and projecting ahead. We owe our life and all that we
have and are to them.
Even though many were not lucky, couldn’t win, or survive, we should
remember them, honour and respect them in our hearts. Then we obtain
strength and balance.
46. The Fan
When it gets hotter
come and see me.
Let me switch on the fan.
Explanation: When you need me, however difficult the conditions are, I
will be there. I recognize the efforts you make for me, and I am grateful.
47. Spirit
When you cultivate
your mind and your heart
you are so simple and so beautiful.
Explanation: Everyone who has a mind that is under control, good
principals, and an open and boundless heart, are humble and lovely people,
this is true.
48. Every Aim
However difficult it is
keep on trying.
Every aim in the world
can be achieved.
 Explanation: There is no limit only that imposed by your own efforts.
49. The Pillar
The head of a family
should not involve himself
in trifling matters.
Explanation: We can’t be involved in everything or waste time on trifles
which delay our more important work. Knowing how to delegate and share
responsibilities is fundamental. Alone, I can do only so much, as a team we
can go much further.
50. Weed Spread
You said something
without thinking
now your words have scattered
and put down roots.
Explanation: Remarks and comments spread like wildfire. In a few hours,
they can reach hundreds or even thousands of people. If later we think about
our comments and try to correct them, it will be too late. Correct ten and
those ten will pass it on to another ten. When you have looked for and found
those hundred, they will already have passed them on to another thousand,
and so on, indefinitely.
51. Boat in the Current
Very easy it is
to be carried along with the current.
Such is the world.
Don’t forget the rudder.
Explanation: How many times have we let ourselves be carried along by
sheer inertia and then find ourselves in places we don’t like? And we ask
ourselves how we ended up there.
How many people don’t take control of their lives but hope that later on
they will have good luck. They might even crash!
52. Thought of a Precious Stone
Every one praises it.
This jewel is so beautiful!
 But how rare it is to see
one that has no defects.
Explanation: Sometimes we admire people without wanting to see their
defects. Sometimes we look down on someone because we have seen
something about them that we don’t like. We all have defects.
53. Feelings on a Journey
Every time I set out on a journey
I am concerned that
I am disturbing
the lives of others.
Explanation: It is good to consider the time others devote to us and the
favors they do for us, accompanying us, providing us with accommodation,
sorting out tickets and so on. It is also good to consider the possible harm and
inconvenience our absence will cause at home, at work, etc.
54. Humanity
Fight for the homeland
against the enemy.
But never forget
what is really important:
the home and the hearth.
Explanation: We go out looking for challenges and great projects that can
completely absorb us. It is important to continue to look inside too, taking
care of our home. We all know of examples of people who obsessed by work,
food, sex, power, alcohol, or money, who lose their families and even
themselves.
55. Elixir
There wouldn’t be anything better in the world
than to give the elixir of immortality
to that old man I would like to see
getting old forever and ever.
Explanation: There are people who dedicate a lifetime to correcting their
errors, always trying to improve, working on ethical behavior, acquiring
experience and efficiency. When they are old they are wells of wisdom. This
poem expresses how valuable these kind of people are and the wish to keep
them forever.
56. The Elderly
Over and again the elderly
may seem to repeat their memories.
Yet treasures are always hidden in their words.
Explanation: Action is experience and experiences bring wisdom. In older
people this is the source of their wisdom. Technologically these days our old
people are behind the times, but in eternal wisdom, the wisdom that is
relevant everywhere and in whatever era, they are masters.
57. Evening
When the sun begins to set
on a day when I have done nothing
I regret the time wasted.
Explanation: A lost day is lost forever. The word always moves on, so we
cannot miss opportunities. Time flies. Every year it surprises us more, and we
say, “I have reached this age and I had hardly realized. The years have
passed in the blink of an eye”. One day there will be things we want to do
and we won’t be able to because the strength and courage of our youthful
years will have gone little by little, without us being aware of it. Then we will
yearn to have it back again, and we would give anything for the time and the
strength to be able to do a multitude of things now.
At the sunset of my life, what have I done in my life?
58. Parent’s Hearts
In spring the farm worker’s
sleep is not serene,
he has to take care of his family
when the land is hard
and unworkable with frost.
Explanation: Parents are always concerned about their children and even
more when circumstances are difficult and resources are limited. Today
things are different, parents who disregard their sons and daughters, bosses
who exploit their employees, governors who are not concerned about the
fortunes of their voters. When things are like this society cannot be in
harmony.
59. Medication
Advice from an honest person
is like good medicine.
Even for one who is healthy.
Explanation: Good advice can help a person who feels bad to get back on
track. It also warns and teaches those who are doing the right things.
60. Daily Work
However busy a man
he will always find time
for what he really loves to do.
Explanation: However many obligations and responsibilities we have, we
must always look for a space and time to fulfill ourselves, and if it is
something we love, we will always find a way.
61. The Summer Lawn
The lawn in summer
is like the busy world.
No matter how much you cut it back
it always grows again.
Explanation: We sit down to meditate and thoughts pop into our minds, we
set them aside and more come to take their place.
We stop complaining and more reasons to complain crop up. We stop being
angry and then there are more reasons to be angry. We stop worrying and
other things to worry about appear.
62. On Alert
More dangerous even
than being surrounded by the enemy
is lowering your guard
when all in life seems calm.
Explanation: We never know what is going to happen, so keep an eye on
things, make regular checks, take preemptive action, and always be prepared
to act.
 63. The Narrow Road
The path between the paddy fields
is very narrow
but country folk quickly
know well how to walk it.
Explanation: For someone who travels the road for the first time it can be
very difficult. For someone who has been doing it for various years it
becomes a habit. Learn from those who have more experience, be patient and
your abilities will grow.
64. A House in the Paddy Field
When the young are at war
the paddy fields in the mountains
are cared for only by the old man.
Explanation: Even though our main energies are directed out towards the
world, towards struggles, a force must always remain, even though it is weak
(an elderly person) to continue cultivating what is really important, the sacred
nourishment.
65. The Sun
Like the rising sun
I want always to have
a renewed spirit.
Explanation: By the end of the day we may have built up tensions, regrets,
complaints, anger and concerns. Many people accumulate them from day to
day, and from year to year. Here the desire is expressed to get rid of those
heavy backpacks everyday to be able to start afresh with more strength and
energy.
66. The Rainy Season
In the rainy season
my carpets are damp
then I worry about the lives
of the villagers and their houses.
Explanation: If some event affects everyone, we shouldn’t only look at how
we are, but also concern ourselves about others, because there will always be
people who are more affected than us.
 67. A Stormy Night
The weather is bad
and thunder wakes me from sleep.
then I worry about the villagers’ houses
and I remember.
Explanation: We should always think about those who are disadvantaged.
68. Precious Stone
You think this transparent stone
does not shine.
But you forgot to polish it.
Explanation: Don’t look down on someone because they don’t stand out
yet. They haven’t yet started on their work with discipline and perseverance.
When we go beyond the surface we are all jewels that are not yet polished.
69. Clocks
Some seem to go faster,
others more slowly.
Different sizes.
Different hands.
Explanation: A clock marks out our time, sometimes it goes faster and we
die earlier. In other cases it goes slower and we live longer. It is different for
everyone.
70. The Road
Better not to take
the more dangerous road
even though you think it the most direct
to arrive quickly at your destination.
Explanation: Some roads need tens of years, others a few months. People
who want to get rich quickly, people who want to build muscles as soon as
possible, people who want to have spiritual experiences as soon as possible,
or people who are in a rush to be masters. Some resort to drugs, unethical
behavior, sexual favours, bribery, etc. These roads are very dangerous.
71. Reconsideration
When the moment comes
 if you have to continue, reconsider.
For the path may lead you on a dangerous route,
from where there is no escape.
Explanation: How many times have we become obsessed by a business or a
romantic attachment or friendship without realizing it is only leading us to a
downfall. Supported only by desire or illusion that things are working,
without wanting to see that the reality is something else.
72. The Heart
The heart of a child.
What a shame!
When did we lose our innocence?
Explanation: Once we were children full of curiosity and joy, with no fears
or worries. Irritations were forgotten quickly. We were searchers and
generous with our love and affection. Where is all that? What is left of that
heart?
73. Offspring
The young bamboo in the garden
moves with ease in all directions.
I hope it grows straight.
Explanation: There is always a wide range of possibilities open to us and
we hope that we will choose the right ones. We hope that all children grow
and are educated to become honourable human beings.
74. Flower Clouds
In the mountains
cherries in blossom
are like clouds
between the pines.
Explanation: Sometimes appearances can be deceptive. We identity them
with memories or other things we know. It isn’t until we are closer or know
them in more depth, that we can identify their true nature.
75. Houses in Summer
In the town, the houses
stand close together.
 No wind enters the small windows.
How hot it must be!
Explanation: When we do what everyone else does, and live packed in
closely to others, we end up stifled and far from the freshness of the wind of
liberty.
76. Abnegation towards Parents
Our own parents
we take care of
with self sacrifice and love,
this is how our sense of honour grows.
Explanation: If someone saves our life we owe them everything. Our
parents gave us life. We can never pay them enough for that but we can
express our gratitude with loyal service, the least an honorable and virtuous
person can do.
77. Parent’s Hearts
Even when you are old
you will remember and understand
the heart of your parents.
Explanation: Things done with love, with heart, stay forever. We will
always have some fond memory of our predecessors, those who have gone
before and even if they made some things difficult for us, there will always
be some very special memory.
78. Homeschooling
From our parents
we learn many small things,
but they are always with you
when you open yourself to the wide world.
Explanation: There is some basic knowledge that serves as a foundation
and without a foundation we can’t construct anything. From a good
foundation we can even build skyscrapers. There are people with university
degrees, who look down on their illiterate parents without realizing
everything that they taught and gave them, until they have children of their
own and understand.
 79. Words with Feeling towards Flowers
The cherry trees in the mountains blossom
their perfume wafts for years.
Even though their flowers are so fleeting,
no one complains.
Explanation: Even though conditions are hard (mountain) or time is short
we should continue with our mission. (Give flowers and flagrance). What can
one say of a person who behaves badly because they have a bad contract or
only have a couple of day’s works left. Whatever happens there should be
integrity until the end.
80. Dust
Letting dust accumulate is not good.
Always it’s best to get rid of it,
even though nothing important hides beneath it.
Explanation: Even though we do nothing to get dirty, slowly, speck by
speck we collect dirt. We are surrounded by aggression, envy, fears and
worries, and even if we give them no importance, we should do a daily
cleansing however small or insignificant we think we are.
81. Learning
I regret my attitude as a child
when I thought there was no point
in making an effort in my studies.
Explanation: We aren’t going to be children forever. We need to prepare
ourselves for the future. We set training aside because of the discipline and
hard work it implies, without realizing it is all for our future good.
82. My Thought
When the sun shines
or when it rains.
I think about the life of my people.
Explanation: I’m always concerned about others whether things are going
well (sun) or badly (rain) for them.
83. The Way
You are still far from your goal.
 But if you walk with integrity
no danger can creep up on you.
Explanation: When we don’t go the right way and stray away from the
straight and honorable path, we find only problems.
84. The Arrow
Time flies like an arrow
it makes no difference what you do.
It works steadily and constantly.
Explanation: Our time is limited by the days and our strength by our youth.
We shouldn’t waste it because time flies.
85. Little Boat in the Reed bed
In a little boat in the reed bed
movement is limited.
Be patient with the rudder.
Explanation: We are in a place full of obstacles and there isn’t much we
can do, we’d like to make a big detour to get there more quickly, or change
route, but we are stuck there. All we can do is to go more slowly, more
skillfully and patiently.
86. The Way
On the path to learning
it is easy to pause
in order to pick it up later
because the path is very demanding.
Explanation: The desire to learn or improve is easy. What is difficult is
making it happen. Who gives up smoking at the first try? Who passes public
examinations at the first attempt? Who writes a book straight off? Who finds
meditation easy?
87. Ability
It isn’t worth living a long life
if at the end
you have no skills.
Explanation: A person who is cultivated during their lifetime is a treasure.
One who has spent their life sleeping and eating in the end is just a worthless
thing.
88. People
Things often will not be as we expect
but if we look back
we will see that all turned out for the best.
Explanation: What made us laugh will make us cry. What made us cry will
make us laugh. If we think about it, we’ll see that everything fits together and
that everything has always been for our good.
89. Consciousness
Even when all is calm
no waves, no wind,
the helmsman
must be extremely careful.
Explanation: Never lower your guard, even when everything is going well,
dangers can appear without warning.
90. The Way
Even when you are the slowest
in your group
you must still take the honorable route.
Explanation: It doesn’t matter if we are the last when things are done well.
We might be tempted to take bad shortcuts, but it’s best to be the last than
end up in ruins.
91. Dew Drops
Too many dew drops on the carnations
if not shaken off,
the flowers will bend in unexpected directions
Explanation: We should help and protect our flowers (children, workers,
our body, etc) so they don’t have to bear heavy loads, whether physical
(weight) or emotionally difficult (water), as we never know how a situation
will turn out.
92. A Precious Stone
A precious stone is one
chosen from a host of others.
 Most have impurities.
Such is our mundane nature.
Explanation: We all have defects. Even though we choose carefully when
we select a partner, an employee or a friend, we will always find people with
weaknesses and imperfections. So we should be patient, because we are not
perfect either.
93. The Heart of Parents
Viewing their children as if they were always little
is the nature of parents,
even though they are grown up and independent.
Explanation: Those who taught us, (parents, uncles and aunts,
grandparents, instructors, masters or bosses) are always going to remember
us from the time when they knew us or shared their life with us, even though
this time passes and we do other things or have different status.
94. Parents
Even though you think
you are going your own way
what your parents told you
should not be forgotten.
Explanation: Some might hope that we will take a different path in life.
Perhaps we learnt things from them that we no longer use. But in our hearts
we are grateful to them forever for what they gave us at the time.
95. The Mine
If in a mountain
there was shining gold
how could you see its light
without going in?
Explanation: The metaphor of the mine has been explained in the fifth
principle. From the exterior the mountain has weeds, stones, humps, hollows,
and other challenges, but inside it hides a hidden treasure. People are like that
too.
96. The Road
When you walk a wide open road
 take care, in life there is always
something to stumble over.
Explanation: Emperor Meiji always urged us not to relax too much when
everything seems to be going well. Problems always pop up when we least
expect them.
97. Reflection
Even though you are busy
with important affairs of the world,
pay attention to small details.
Explanation: Large issues can be reduced to smaller ones, and those tasks
into even smaller ones, until we find ourselves confronted by countless small
details. Maybe we don’t pay enough attention to those little details which
then mount up and up until they are very weighty and problematic.
98. The Mind
Great and wide is the world
of relations with others
but human mind always
is always limited.
Explanation: We will be in contact with people of all types with different
links and connections. Good relationships will depend on our mental
openness. If we are closed and narrow minded, we only accept a small
number of people who we can relate to.
99. Old People
Do not complain because you are old.
One can live in old age with great dignity.
Explanation: There are stages in life when what we could do before we can
no longer do for a variety of reasons including, changes of address, accidents,
pregnancy or children, farewells, different work, illness or old age. We can
spend our time complaining, embittering everyone or we can live our lives
with the values that sustain us and identify us as honorable and valuable
people.
100. Head of the Family
The main beam is how
 the head of the house should be.
Firm, strong, feet on the ground.
Then the family will prosper.
Explanation: When we are responsible for others we can’t take things
lightly or have our heads in the clouds. We can cause the destruction and
defeat of others not only our own.
101. Reflection
I govern a country in a way
that others approve of.
I do my best possible
and meditate deeply on everything.
Explanation: Bearing in mind everyone and the work we have, we should
think about the best way to do things and try always to do things as well as
possible.
102. Teachers
Even if you are a specialist
in some specific area never forget
what your masters have given you.
Explanation: Learning is a great treasure, we should always be grateful to
everyone who teaches us something. From those who taught us to read and
write to those who taught us at more advanced levels.
103. Newspapers
So many people read the press.
Leave aside the vulgar,
publish only the important.
Explanation: Media and the press influence the public opinion of millions
of people. The correct thing to do would be to give important news and good
teaching, but these days the media is owned by groups of companies where
marketing, persuasion and manipulation dominate everything.
104. Water
The spring is pure and clear
but what a shame how it gets spoilt
when it flows and merges
 with contaminated waters.
Explanation: Our origins may be noble and honorable, but with bad
company we can fall into decadence.
105. The Cow
The cow does not stumble
even though the cart is overloaded.
Because it never hastens.
Explanation: The bigger the problems are, the calmer and more patiently
we should face them, without pressure and little by little.
106. God
The one who in front of the invisible God
neither blushes nor hides
from the true heart
is a man.
Explanation: How do we behave when nobody is watching us? If we are
not shy in the face of God, who you cannot see, it means that you have
nothing to hide and nothing to regret, you are a person who always works for
good.
107. Sloth
When things do not go as planned
don’t complain.
Examine your own sloth.
Explanation: The meaning of the complaint is the fear of accepting your
own ineptitude. And for this we always look elsewhere.
108. Friends
The most valuable force in this life
is the strength of a close friendship
through which we give mutual support.
Explanation: Bonds between people create strength, but friendship also
gives security, confidence and space.
109. The Old Pine Tree
Ancient pine tree in the garden
I want to help you
 as much as possible
to lengthen your life.
Explanation: We shouldn’t let things deteriorate just because they are old.
We take care of our old car, we look after our elderly relations and we take
care of old people. They have fulfilled their mission, but we should continue
to take care of them with gratitude and recognition for their value throughout
the years.
110. Country Folk
In the mountains the rice fields
are tended by the country folk.
For them there is no rest between
sowing and harvesting.
Explanation: Sometimes life or work conditions are very different for other
people, while some can rest; others have to carry on working hard.
111. The Pine Tree
This pine that grew with patience
through snow and tempests
is the most valuable to me.
Explanation: People who shape and train themselves and resist in spite of
all adversities have more strength and merit of character.
112. The Country
This country has to be as good
as the best.
Keep doing things well
and stay away from bad influences.
Explanation: Country: family, business, group, etc. There are two paths,
one, through innovation, good practice and development and the other by
studying mistakes made and things they are doing badly. Those are the ways
to progress.
113. Fame
However famous
you are in this life
always be a person
 with humility.
Explanation: We may have studied more or done more work than others,
but that doesn’t make us better than them. It only means that we have made
the most of our time, resources and opportunities.
Our achievements can help us to motivate those who are stuck, to take
action, rather than just making us feel important or superior, because we are
not.
114. The Snail
The snail ventures
out of his shell
to see what is outside.
Explanation: We cannot live isolated or cut off just because we feel safer
like that. We need to open ourselves to the world and know how things
around us are going.
115. The Way
I will polish myself more
to mirror better
the radiant hearts of others.
Explanation: A lot of work is necessary (polishing) if we don’t want to
continue showing the unpleasant side of others (criticism, complaint, envy)
and to show their positive aspects (brightness).
116. Treasure
You will obtain valuable treasure
and become independent
if, through hard work
you develop skills.
Explanation: Maturity is the treasure of being able to do things by oneself.
117. Student
The world being noisy, there is no silence,
the student with a tranquil heart
should not deviate from the path of learning.
Explanation: If the world is noisy, we should never stop studying silence. If
the world is violent we should study tranquility. It is easy to become
distracted and diverted. But it is up to us to change things and not let the
world change us.
118. The Last
If we do not progress at the right moment
We will arrive after all the others.
Explanation: There are opportunities and times for action, which if we
don’t make the most of, means we miss a chance or have to wait a very long
time. We must be awake and alert.
119. The Guide
If in this life
you are called to be a guide
how important it is
to have the correct spiritual attitude.
Explanation: If we guide people and we get lost, we not only lose ourselves
but also many others. So our training, experience, and study should be more
solid, responsible and serious.
120. The Guide
If your work is not aimed in the right direction
how difficult it is to guide others.
Explanation: Our fundamental learning is achieved by imitation. So we
should set the best example in everything we hope to teach others. If we do
this badly, how are we going to teach to do something well?
121. The Correct Way to Think
Beyond all the seas
in all cardinal directions
all beings are my brothers
so then, what sense are wars?
Explanation: When I have prejudice or reproaches I ask myself, would I be
so prejudiced if this person was really my brother? We are all brothers.
122. The Bank
Carried by the current
the garden carnation
lies on the bank.
 still in flower.
Explanation: In the worst conditions we see our true nature. In the worst
conditions we should hold on to the qualities we value when everything is
going well.
123. The Game
Even though you find
a game you love,
never neglect in life
what is really important.
Explanation: Leisure and relaxation are good but, as with everything else,
in moderation, and without taking time away from the really important tasks.
To win the world record of “Pac-Man”, how many hours would the player
have had to play? We all know that in order to win the 256 screens of the
game we should play for 6 hours non-stop.
How many hours do we dedicate to a social cause, for example an NGO?
The world and our family need people who work with love and strength, not
people who are hooked on screens.
124. Within You
Look within yourself often
for without realizing
you may be led astray by confusion
and walk towards errors.
Explanation: Lack of reflection on our attitudes, can mean our actions are
governed by hasty decisions, neglect, fear, or lack of ethics. As we are
constantly doing things, we should be constantly searching inside ourselves.
125. The Mirror
I will polish myself again and again
to mirror better those
who brightly shine.
Explanation: A great deal of work (polishing) is needed to be able to reflect
the great qualities (shine) of great men.
 MASTER

I feel lucky and very grateful for the trust you invested in me to produce this
book.
My name is Octavio Lombardo Rodriguez and I have been very happy to
show you part of my beautiful world. I am only a minor master in a small
town, who does what he can to make Reiki and the Akashic Records known
and practiced.
The time of great masters who move multitudes of people and produced
through their example and teachings great revolutions is over.
We no longer expect great saviours like Rambo, Superman, Jesus Christ or
Buddha. We no longer hope for someone great and strong capable of
changing the world on his own while we are comfortable on our sofas
watching TV.
Now is the time for every one of us to begin to make little changes in our
lives; in our way of understanding the world, our attitudes, our way of being,
of doing, of relating to and dealing with others. None of us will be famous, a
street won’t be named after us, they won’t put up a statue in our honour and
we won’t appear in the press. But in the end it will be the sum of everyone’s
actions that will produce the great change on Earth, so necessary and that so
many of us are hoping for.
A trick will not stop us, not kryptonite will do it, not even being crucified
because there is no visible leader to behead.
We are many people of little importance, unknown, who are already
making changes and living as we have always felt we should live. And every
day there are more of us.
Many thanks for reading this book and now get up and begin to work,
there’s a lot to do and the world won’t change by itself.
Sometimes people ask me if I can recommend someone in their town, and
so I am working on the ambitious project of creating a webpage that contains
all the federations and associations of Reiki in the world. I hope that this will
provide a way for everyone to get closer to the practice of this incredible
system of natural healing.
 To learn more about this project, Reiki in general, Akashic Records or me;
you can visit my web www.reiki.land
Always, always, always: practice, practice and practice. This is the great
secret.
 NOTES

1. CHIBA TSUNETANE
In February 1927 Mikao Usui’s students erected a statue in honour of their
master which roughly describes the life of the founder of Reiki. I have used
this in the biography of Mikao Usui as a chronological outline and I have
taken some information, like place and date of birth or the names of his
parents. As Japan has gone through great wars, earthquakes, fires, practically
no documentation on Usui sensei and his family exists and this monument
has become almost the only reliable source of written information.
On the previously mentioned monument, there is reference to the fact that
the Usui family is descended from Chiba Tsunetane, a famous samurai. The
ascending line from that samurai is as follows: Emperor Kammu (737-806,
was the 50th Emperor of Japan) -> Kazurahara (one of his 36 sons) -> Takami
-> Taira no Takamochi-> Taira no Yoshifumi ->Taira no Tadayori -> Taira
no Tadatsune-> Taira no Tsunemasa -> Taira no Tsunenaga -> Taira no
Tsunekane -> Chiba Tsuneshige -> Chiba Tsunetane (1118 -1201).
Chiba Tsunetane is descended from a family of the Taira clan. Taira is the
hereditary name of certain ex members of the Imperial family when they
became subjects.
The Taira clan dominated Japanese politics during the Heian period (794-
1185) together with the Fujiwara clan, the Minamoto clan and the Tachibana
clan.

2. SENSEI
“Sensei” refers to the person who is expert, who has mastery, and can teach a
student because he has the experience and the wisdom. In Japanese it literally
means “he who was born before”.

3. TATSU NO RETSU
When these words came to my head my first thought was that I wished they
would be in a Japanese dictionary, and the second was that I hoped they
wouldn’t have some absurd meaning like “chair” or “potato” or something
similar.
They were, in fact, in a Japanese dictionary and translated as follows:
“Tatsu”: to stand or get up.
“No”: of, a skill, ability or field.
“Retsu”: a line or a row.
But this is not the deep spiritual meaning of these words, a meaning that I
finally came to almost two years later.
I made my conjectures because in my mind I saw Master Usui’s group
walking up a mountain path in single file. It is really difficult to explain the
exact meaning of “Tatsu no Retsu”. In their practices they were very fond of
word and sound games.
Tatsu
Looking into a technique called “Tatsunaki-Rei” (“tornado of Reiki”), by
chance I realised that the word “tornado” in Japanese is composed of two
ideograms (tatsu-naki) that literally mean “coiled dragon”. Dragon in
Japanese is “Ryu”, but in ancient Japanese it can also be read as “Tatsu”.
The Japanese dragon refers to wisdom and to protection. It also has a
meaning equivalent to what Hindu tradition has called the “kundalini snake”,
that is the energy that lies dormant at the base of the spine (first chakra –
sacrum) and which when awakened and rises up the spine) produces changes
at all levels and brings about great spiritual development.
When this “dragon energy” reaches the seventh chakra, the crown chakra,
a unique mystical experience or “illumination” is produced. The initiate is
connected with all the higher planes of vibration and reconnected with their
true essence of light.
Retsu
On the other hand, I have discovered the deep significance of “Retsu” in
2016 in reading the book by José M. Collado Mikkyo. “Budismo esotérico
japonés” (2007, S.L. Shinden Ediciones).
“Retsu” belongs to “Kuji Kiri”, a system used in Japanese esotericism and
widely practised in the martial arts known as Ninjutsu. The “Kuji Kiri” is
formed by nine symbols or idiograms that are used with the aim of
channeling or awakening a type of energy that increases certain qualities or
abilities along with the consequent raising of consciousness. The origin of
“Kuji Kiri” is associated with the ancient school of Shugendo or Shingon
Shu and its rituals of protection and healing.
These symbols are put into practice following the idea of the “triple secret”
or “triple door”:
1. You adopt a mudra, a certain position of the hands, that represents the
purification of actions. In the case of “Retsu” the mudra is called
“Chiken-in”, that translates into fist of wisdom or diamond fist.
2. You recite a mantra, a sacred sentence, that represents the purification of
speech: “On hi ro taki sha no ga ji ba ta i sowaka”.
3. You invoke the power of the symbol by fixing your concentration on it
and what it represents in order to assimilaçte its qualities. It produces the
purification of the mind.
All this is accompanied by a special rhythm of breathing and concentration
related to the third eye or the third chakra.
The energy function acts on the control of time and space. It develops clear
perception and wisdom coming from the soul and higher spiritual states.
Within the context of energy healing the techniques that are beyond time
and space are included. In Reiki, for example, this concept (“Retsu”) is
applied to distance healing (the axis of space) and in the techniques that work
with the axis of time, as in the healing of past traumas.
Within the context of protection it was used to sense dangers like tricks,
ambushes, floods or avalanches.

4. AN EXERCISE SUGGESTION: MEDITATION ON BEING

BURIED ALIVE AND DYING
As I showed in the explanation of the “first principle”, we don’t have to bury
ourselves in the countryside to have the experience but we can do it in a
virtual way. The brain is a great interpreter of information, but it cannot
distinguish between the real and the unreal.
To start this meditation we need to be in a place where no one is going to
disturb us. We lie down in a comfortable place, blindfold our eyes and plug
our ears. We can focus our attention on a mantra so that our mind doesn’t
wander and imagine that we are within a small confined space in the earth in
some sacred place or mountain. We feel accepted within the Mother, her
strength and vibrations enfold us. We take time to smell the earth that
surrounds us, and feel the sensation of withdrawal and retreat.
As we cannot abandon our daily tasks for many days, we are going to
accelerate the process. Let’s imagine that each minute that passes is
equivalent to a year. In five minutes we have distanced ourselves five years
away from our problems, in ten minutes it is ten years since the last time we
saw anyone. In sixty minutes it is sixty years since we have used our body.
Our body breaks down, dissolves and is assimilated into Mother Earth. So
many years have passed, the emotions that troubled us, and the reasons why
we got angry no longer exist. There are no longer reasons to be afraid.
All our life has disappeared, our society has disappeared, our tastes and
preferences have disappeared together with our prejudices and guilt.
Our consciousness is integrated in eternal and infinite heaven. Everything
has disappeared, time and space too. We only seek to be in the light, in our
true nature of light.
When we finish we return to this infinite space of peace, breathing deeply
and begin to move our fingers and toes little by little. Gradually we move
more and more, stretching, yawning, and rubbing our face till we have woken
up completely.
May the peace we have reached stay for as long as possible. Whenever we
are beset by anxiety, worries, or stress is the moment to return rapidly to the
restorative chamber.

5. THE KANTO EARTHQUAKE OF 1923

There is an excellent documentary about this event from the Smithsonian
channel with images and testimonies of those who survived. It is one of the
series “Perfect Storm” (first season, episode 4,) entitled “Fire Twister” by
Steve Gamester ZDF Enterprises GmbH.
The help of Usui sensei in this catastrophe is recorded in his memorial and
it is rumored that he was congratulated in person by the Emperor.

6. TAKATA’S LIE
In no way do I condone the lie, but I recognize that I understand the
circumstances and the survival strategies of some Japanese descendants
living on American soil during a great war against Japan.
7. PRACTICE GROUPS
If we know nothing about yoga and we are taught about it one weekend, then
to be told, “Ok, from now on, practice at home”, how many of us would
practice regularly? Yoga has grown thanks to practicing in groups.
In my association we encourage group practice of Reiki. In this way
students have a place to practice and quickly develop skills, sensibility,
intuition and the ability to channel energy. There are many benefits of group
practice.
To know more you can check my ebook “Prácticas de Reiki en grupo” in
www.reiki.land

8. COLUMBIA PRESBYTERIAN MEDICAL CENTER

I recommend the book “Hands of Life : An Energy Healer Reveals the
Secrets of Using Your Body’s Own Energy Medicine for Healing, Recovery
and Transformation”, publication year: 2.000, publisher: Bantam Doubleday
Dell Publishing Group Inc. Which deals with the Colombia Presbyterian
Medical Center and its experiences with Reiki.

9. POETRY AND SAMURAIS

Samurais are legendary Japanese warriors. They strengthen their bodies and
practice with skill the art of the sword, amongst other martial arts. This hard
training mainly works the left hemisphere of the brain. They realized that to
be great warriors they needed to practice activities which would also develop
the right hemisphere, like meditation and poetry. Through poetry they
developed a sense of beauty, sensibility, creativity and imagination.
So with both hemispheres of the brain working as one, through this synergy
they developed a great number of capacities like concentration, anticipation,
intuition, speed, etc, which made them superior to other warriors.

10. HOW TO CHOOSE A POEM AT RANDOM, THE POEM

OF THE DAY, AND OUR PERSONAL POETRY
The Usui group was very taken by word, sound and number games. The
number 125 is not just by chance: it is 5x5x5 and represents the five
Buddhas, the five precepts and the five paths of Buddhism.
We concentrate on some problem or issues that worry us and we ask the
forces of the universe to guide us towards the most appropriate poem.
Choosing a random poem from the 125 with a coin
The use of a “clean” coin is recommended, when possible one that is not
normally used, like a coin from a collection or an I-Ching coin.
We can give Reiki to the coin to cleanse it of energy vibrations that it may
have accumulated.
Once we have done this, we divide the poems into 5 groups of 25, and
tossing a coin, we mark with a (0) or a (X) according to whether it was heads
or tails.
We discard the (0) groups and play off the (X) groups. An example:
(1-25) (26-50) (51- 75) (76-100) (101 - 125)
X00XX
We see that in the first five throws we have got tails, heads, heads, tails and
tails.
Now we play off only the groups that came out as tails.
We throw the coins until we have one group:
X00
Tails, heads, heads
Once we have selected just one group, we again divide the group into five
subgroups of five numbers and repeat the same procedure.
(1-5) (6-10) (11- 15) (16 – 20) (21-25)
0X0X0
0X
Once we have selected one subgroup, for the last time, we divide it into its
five numbers and we select in the same way, just one of them:
(16) (17) (18) (19) (20)
X0X00
0X
In this case the result is poem number 18 (The glow worm and the moon).
Reflecting on how I can apply this poem now to this book, the project I am
involved in at this moment, I understand that poem 18 explains to me the
importance of Reiki energy and its teachings, and that I am not important.
So, as I am finishing the chapter, in which I talk about myself, I have
deleted everything about me that is not absolutely necessary. I embrace
humility as I don’t claim to shine more than all this great world of energy and
light.
Random selection of a poem from the 125 poems
The formula for selecting a number between 1 and 125 is as follows:
(0-4) x 25 + (0–4) x 5 + (0-4) +1
A random number from 0 to 4 multiplied by 25 plus a random number from
0 to 4 multiplied by 5 plus a random number from 0 to 4 plus the unit. So
taking three random numbers we can calculate the corresponding poem.
Poem of the day
To choose for example the poem of the day for the 18th April 2015, we reduce
the date to three numbers (18/4/15). The trick for reducing any number to a
number between 0 and 4 is to calculate its module 5. That is to say, divide the
number by 5 and we have the remainder of the division.
So the remainder of dividing 18 by 5 is 3, the remainder of dividing 4 by 5
is 4 and the remainder of dividing 15 by 5 is 0. The result will be the
numbers, 3, 4 and 0.
The formula would be 3 x 25 + 4 x 5 + 0 + 1, and in this case the result
would be poem number 96.
Personal poetry
Our personal poetry consists in following the previous method, but this time
with our own date of birth.
The basis of Reiki is supported by a system that trains honest people, those
people with strength and wisdom who work to heal themselves,others and the
whole world.
This is the first book channeled from the Akashic Records of Mikao Usui.
It tells the true story of Reiki, with explanations, anecdotes and teachings
never published before.
It contains one of the Mikao Usui’s favourite meditations, the meditation of
the seven buddhas.
Urban myths still held to be true about the history of Reiki and its practices
are debunked.
The Philosophy of Reiki is explained in a profound way.
The “five principles” are explored with an explanation of their origins and
how they serve as a path of initiation.
The 125 Poems of Emperor Meiji are commented upon.
The book is illustrated by one of the best illustrators around nowadays:
Albert Lledó.
This book includes the basic theories, practices and philosophy that any
practitioner of Reiki should be aware of.
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, this book is for
you.
We all want to live in a better world. There is still a long way to go for all
human beings to live well in health and happiness. The Usui System of
Natural Health (Reiki) is a powerful and efficient tool to help us work
towards this goal.