Reiki means 'Universal Life Force Energy'. This is the non-physical energy that animates all living things. It is a Japanese energy healing technique for transmitting this Universal Life Force Energy through the practitioner's hands into the recipient's energy system. As long as something is alive, it has life energy circulating through it and surrounding it. If one's life energy is low, or if there is a restriction in its flow, then one is more vulnerable to illness. When the life energy is high and flowing freely, one is less likely to get ill. Reiki is spiritual in nature, it is not a religion. It is not dependent on belief at all and will work whether you believe in it or not. This ancient form of healing is a vehicle to channel love, the most powerful healer. Reiki treats the whole person including the body, emotions, mind and spirit. It can work in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery. Numerous documented studies have shown that Reiki may help to reduce pain and anxiety, relieve depression and enhance overall well-being. During a treatment, the recipient remains fully clothed and the Reiki practitioner places hands lightly on specific parts of the body. Reiki can never do harm. It always knows what a person needs and will adjust itself to create an effect that is appropriate.