Reiki is all about the divine eternal energy that is abundantly available in the universe and can be channeled through those trained in it into other’s bodies. The work Reiki consists of two words, Rei and Ki which can be roughly translated into spiritual energy. It is not possible to define the words exactly as there can be multiple meanings of the words depending upon the context they are being used. So, we cannot understand the word Reiki in its original sense that has been used in its originating language.

If we still try to define the word, we get something of higher intelligence, a creator force which creates and manages the working of the universe. It has to do with a universal intelligence or mind which is omnipresent. It permeates both living and nonliving beings and objects respectively. It is the source of evolution and creates stars, planets and galaxies as well as life. It is an all-inclusive force or power which determines the course of events, situations, animate and inanimate things. Reiki energy is holistic in nature in the sense that it is intelligent energy which is all-knowledgeable and manages the daily and overall functioning of the universe. It guides all and can be used by beings such as humans to improve their lives. It is the power source for the universe and used for the benefit of living forms on earth. The supply of this energy is infinite and is named by different names in different cultures.

Then there is Ki which is nonphysical or abstract in nature. It permeates every living being and is the source of life force energy. The lack of this energy causes disease and sickness in us and the absence of it causes the end of life in the body. A person is full of confidence, strong, energetic, vibrant and dynamic when it is at high level in the body and weak, confused, sick, low self-esteemed and less confident when it is at lower levels in the body. We can get this divine, eternal and creator energy from food, meditation, sunlight, exercise, fresh air and sleep.

So, Reiki can be defined as a non physical energy with higher intelligence compared to humans and other living beings. One can use this energy for his or her benefit either by self Reiki or availing the services of a practitioner. As it is higher level of conscious and intelligent it cannot be guided regarding treating the part of body that is affected. It finds its own way and treats the diseased part. It even does not require the healer to be highly capable and the healer only needs to be able to channelize it through his or her body and to the patient.