Reiki is a body, mind, and spirit healing technique that was developed over 80 years ago by Dr. Mikao Usui. If youve ever experienced a treatment with a Certified Reiki Practitioner, you know youve experienced something very special and important that may defy description or explanation.

Most people come away from a Reiki session with a calm sense of well being and relaxation, saying its like nothing theyve ever experienced before. Many even express feeling more relaxed and centered after a Reiki session than after a full hour of hands-on massage. And one of the best things about Reiki is that you remain fully clothed and oil-free.

Dr. Usui believed that in order for anyone to practice Reiki and transfer healing energy to others, they must first take responsibility for their own health and well being. The same is true of those receiving Reiki energy. It is beneficial to conduct your life in a simple, positive, and nurturing way. With that, he developed the Five Principles of Reiki.

1. Just For Today, Do Not Worry

This principle reminds you to let go of future events and circumstances you cant possibly control. You only have the immediate moment youre in live it fully and in the best way you can. Make it matter.

2. Just For Today, Do Not Anger

Take the time to step back from a situation when you feel yourself becoming angry. Remember that once hurtful words are expressed, they can never be taken back. Many times angry feelings really come from a place of fear. Think about why you may be afraid and then later, talk about it calmly and honestly.

3. Honor Your Parents, Teachers and Elders

Its important to honor and respect everyone who comes into your life because they are all there for some reason. The one thing most everyone wants in life is respect and acknowledgement as a fellow human being. If you show that respect to each person you encounter everyday, youll receive respect in return.

4. Earn Your Living Honestly

This principle is about fairness and integrity. No matter what your work entails, do the very best you can do. There is no job too small or less important than any other that doesnt require 100% of your attention and dedication. Treat yourself, those who work for you, and those you work for with dignity and respect.

5. Show Gratitude for Everything

There are times when life seems difficult, painful, or unfair. This principle reminds you to stop for a moment and remember all the good things you have in your life no matter how small. Each experience and each encounter throughout your day has significance in forming who you are. Its important to pay attention to those moments and say thank you. Everything counts.

Dr. Usuis principles remind us to stay conscious and aware in each moment of each day. This is good advice whether you subscribe to the practice of Reiki or not.

Living truly in the present moment releases you from the perceived mistakes and pain of the past and the potential worries of the future. It allows you to evict thoughts such as if only and what if right out of your mind. To repeat those thoughts as if they were a mantra can only lead to frustration, sadness, and even sickness.

Common sense tells you the past is gone and can never be changed, just as you cant really know what will happen in the future. We wish sometimes we had those kinds of magical powers but we dont.

To begin living a life thats simple, balanced, and full, start with the Five Principles of Reiki. Youll see enormous changes come about.

Keep in mind the words of Buddha, The secret of health for both the mind and body is not to mourn for the past, not to worry about the future, not to anticipate troubles, but to live the present moment wisely and earnestly.