The History of Usui Reiki

The History of Usui Reiki

The Origins of Usui Reiki

Usui Reiki, also known as Usui Reiki Ryōhō, is a Japanese complementary wellbeing practice developed by Mikao Usui (1865–1926) in the early 20th century. Reiki is commonly understood as a practice that works with the concept of universal life energy to encourage relaxation, balance and wellbeing.

The word Reiki is often explained through two Japanese terms: Rei, meaning universal or spiritual wisdom, and Ki, meaning life force energy.

Key Dates in Reiki History

1865 – The Birth of Mikao Usui

Mikao Usui was born in Japan in 1865. His spiritual interests and search for understanding are central to traditional accounts of how the Reiki system developed.

March 1922 – Usui’s Spiritual Retreat

According to traditional Reiki accounts, Usui undertook a 21-day spiritual retreat on Mount Kurama in Japan. This experience is commonly described as a significant turning point in the development of his Reiki practice.

April 1922 – The Usui Reiki Ryoho Gakkai

Usui established the Usui Reiki Ryōhō Gakkai in Tokyo, an organisation dedicated to practising and teaching his system of Reiki. He began sharing Reiki with others and supporting their learning.

September 1923 – The Great Kanto Earthquake

Following the devastating Great Kanto earthquake, Usui and his students are reported to have offered Reiki to people affected by the disaster.

1925–1926 – Chujiro Hayashi

Chujiro Hayashi (1880–1940), a former naval officer, became one of Usui’s students in 1925. He later developed his own Reiki clinic and teaching practice, helping Reiki reach more people.

Mikao Usui died in 1926, having taught Reiki to many students and trained teachers to continue sharing the practice.

1935–1938 – Hawayo Takata

Hawayo Takata (1900–1980), who was born in Hawaii to Japanese parents, received Reiki treatment at Hayashi’s clinic in Japan in 1935. She subsequently learned Reiki and returned to Hawaii in 1937. Hayashi visited her in 1938, and she continued practising and teaching Reiki.

Takata played a significant role in introducing Reiki to the Western world. By the time of her death in 1980, she had trained 22 Reiki Masters, according to commonly cited accounts.

Early 1990s onwards – Reiki Spreads Worldwide

From the early 1990s, renewed interest in Japanese Reiki traditions and connections between Japanese and Western practitioners contributed to a wider understanding of Reiki’s different lineages and approaches. Today, Reiki is practised and taught in many countries around the world.

The Five Reiki Principles

An important part of Usui Reiki is the Five Reiki Principles, known in Japanese as Gokai. These principles were taught by Mikao Usui as guidance for living with greater mindfulness, compassion and inner peace.

They begin with the words “Just for today”, reminding us to focus on the present moment and approach each day with intention.

Kyo dake wa — Just for today

1. Ikaru na — Do not anger - Let go of anger and seek to respond to life's challenges with calmness and understanding.

2. Shinpai suna — Do not worry - Practise trusting the present moment and meeting uncertainty with a calmer mind.

3. Kansha shite — Be grateful - Cultivate gratitude for the people, experiences and opportunities in your life.

4. Gyo o hageme — Work diligently - Approach your work and daily responsibilities with honesty, dedication and integrity.

5. Hito ni shinsetsu ni — Be kind to others - Treat others with kindness, compassion and respect.

The Five Reiki Principles are not about being perfect. They are gentle reminders to return to mindful living, one day at a time. Many Reiki practitioners reflect on these principles as part of their daily self-Reiki practice and personal development.

My Personal Reiki Journey

My own Reiki journey began in 2022, when I experienced a Reiki session while seeking healing and balance in my own life. The experience sparked a curiosity that gradually grew into a genuine passion for holistic well-being and spiritual development.

In 2023, I began my Reiki training, completing Levels 1 and 2. My journey continued as I progressed to Reiki Master and Teacher training, which I completed in September 2026.

Today, as a Reiki Master & Teacher and a member of the UK Reiki Federation, I feel privileged to offer Reiki sessions and begin teaching others. Sharing Reiki is especially meaningful to me because what began as a personal journey has grown into an opportunity to support others as they explore their own well-being.

Through Diya Jyoti Holistic Wellness, my intention is to provide a welcoming and supportive space where people can learn about Reiki, experience its calming practice and develop their own understanding of holistic well-being.

Further Reading & References

If you would like to learn more about Usui Reiki and its history, the following resources offer further information:

• UK Reiki Federation – What Is Reiki?

• Reiki Council – Reiki History

Historical note: Some details of Reiki’s early history are based on traditional accounts, and dates or interpretations may differ between sources.

A Gentle Reminder

Reiki is a complementary wellbeing practice that many people use to support relaxation and self-care. Experiences vary from person to person, and Reiki should not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.