Meditation

Meditation, the process of creating a quiet mind and connecting to higher consciousness, is a recognised tool in the process of relaxation. It is also used extensively by people wishing to enhance their spiritual awareness and development. For a Reiki practitioner, it is an essential part of their daily routine.

Reiki meditations focus on awareness of breathing patterns, energy visualisations and simple mind focusing techniques. An example of mind focusing techniques is the Gassho meditation.

The Gassho meditation requires the practitioner to place their two hands together in the prayer position, close their eyes, and focus their attention on the point where the two middle fingers touch. Should the mind wander, as it usually does, the response is to gently press the two middle fingers together which effectively refocusses the mind. Why not give it a try?

5 Precepts

Mikao Usui gave his students 5 Precepts to follow which were his adaptation of an earlier set of precepts dating back to the 9th century. The full wording of these precepts is

The secret art of inviting happiness
The miraculous medicine of all diseases

Just for today,
Do not anger,
Do not worry
Be Humble
Be honest (in your dealings with other people)
Be compassionate towards yourself and others

In every morning and evening join your hands in prayer,
pray these words to your heart and chant these words with your mouth:

The Founder, Usui Mikao

These precepts were chanted daily by his students and were said to promote an equal amount of spiritual development as all the energy work they did.