Usui Reiki Ryoho is a traditional branch of Japanese Reiki taught by Hiroshi Doi (Japan), Frans and Bronwen Stiene (Australia) and many other notable teachers throughout the world. Usui Reiki Ryoho translates as “Usui Spiritual Energy Healing Method” and aims to reflect the spiritual philosophy and practices that Mikao Usui taught to thousands of Japanese people during his lifetime (1865–1926).
Today, there are thousands of different branches of Reiki, most of which have evolved in Western countries over the past twenty years. Most of these healing systems, while positive and unique to themselves, are radically different from Usui’s original teachings. Often these systems include practices that originate not from Japan, but rather from the teacher’s own beliefs and experiences. In addition to the inclusion of Western techniques, many modern systems of Reiki can sometimes overlook the depth and intricacy of the tradition’s Japanese roots. Usui Reiki Ryoho strives to honour these roots: teaching a system of healing which is harmonious with the founder’s original philosophy and practices.
There are five elements that are integral to the system of Usui Reiki Ryoho. These are Gokai (philosophical precepts), Kokyu-Ho (breathing techniques and meditation), Tenohira (performing treatments for the self and others), and Reiju (receiving a spiritual blessing, or “attunement” from one’s teacher).
Practitioners of Usui Reiki Ryoho are encouraged to work on themselves on a regular basis, setting up a daily routine and developing their abilities over the course of a lifetime. Emphasis is placed on gradual progress and regular practice. It is only by first healing ourselves that we can learn to help others in need.
There are three levels in Usui Reiki Ryoho that students can aspire to: these are known as Shoden, Okuden and Shinpiden. Practitioners are encouraged to take as long as they need between these levels, building strong foundations through consistant practice. In Western traditions of Reiki, progression through these levels is often rushed, with students completing two, or even all three degrees within a short period of time. In truth, it is a practitioner’s devotion and regular work on themselves which strengthens their Reiki abilities, not the attainment of degrees. Without a regular practice, such degrees are rendered meaningless.
Usui Reiki Ryoho works with a Japanese model of the human energy system, in contrast to many Western Reiki traditions that work with models from India (chakras) or other parts of the world. The Japanese model of the human energy system is very beautiful in its simplicity, focusing on the three Hara or energetic centres that connect us to the energies of Heaven and Earth. The system strives to integrate and balance these forces in a way that promotes well-being on all levels, helping to develop a deep sense of connection to all of humanity and nature.
Usui Reiki Ryoho is a system which honours the Reiki’s Japanese roots and provides students with a strong energetic connection to its founder, Usui Mikao. Teachers of Usui Reiki Ryoho are dedicated to providing factual and accurately researched information about the system’s history, philosphy and practice. This can be very helpful for students given the wealth of misinformation about Reiki which has sprung up in recent years, both in print and on the internet. In summary, Usui Reiki Ryoho is a balanced and grounded practice of energetic development, that places emphasis on achieving physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. We are all capable of helping ourselves and others with Reiki: training only serves to awaken and refine these natural abilities.