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Writer's picturePasquale N

Learn to Heal Your Mind & Body with these 5 Reiki Principles

Updated: Jun 20, 2023


In a world where stress, anxiety, and negativity are prevalent, it can be challenging to find a sense of peace and contentment within oneself. This is where Reiki comes in – an ancient Japanese healing technique that aims to restore balance and promote relaxation by channeling the body’s natural energy. At the core of Reiki lie five principles that serve as a guide to living a fulfilling and happy life. These principles, also known as precepts, are rooted in mindfulness and embody the essence of Reiki practice. In this blog post, we will delve into these five Reiki principles and explore how they can help heal the mind and body.


What is Reiki and why it can help you heal

Reiki is a holistic healing practice that has its roots in ancient Japanese culture. The word “Reiki” is a combination of two Japanese words – “Rei,” which means universal, and “ki,” which means life force energy. It is believed that this energy flows through all living things and is responsible for maintaining balance and harmony within the body. However, due to stress, illness or negative emotions, this energy can become blocked or depleted, resulting in physical, emotional, or mental imbalances.

Reiki practitioners use a technique called “laying on hands” to channel the body’s natural energy and restore balance. This is achieved through a series of hand positions on or above the recipient’s body, with the aim of facilitating healing on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level.

The practice of Reiki is based on the belief that the body has the innate ability to heal itself. The role of the Reiki practitioner is to facilitate this natural process and support the body’s own healing abilities. This is why Reiki is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments, to support a person’s overall health and well-being.

The five principles of Reiki are an essential part of this healing practice. They are:


1. Just for today, I will not be angry

2. Just for today, I will not worry

3. Just for today, I will be grateful

4. Just for today, I will do my work honestly

5. Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing

Each of these principles is designed to promote mindfulness, self-awareness, and positive thinking. By embracing these principles, we can cultivate a sense of inner peace, balance, and harmony. Moreover, Reiki can help individuals dealing with a range of issues, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and fatigue.

Reiki is a powerful healing practice that can help individuals achieve physical, emotional, and spiritual balance. The five principles of Reiki serve as a guide to living a fulfilled and happy life, providing individuals with the tools to cultivate mindfulness and self-awareness. Whether you are dealing with physical pain, negative emotions, or simply wish to achieve a greater sense of inner peace, Reiki can be an effective complement to conventional medical treatments.


Understanding the 5 Principles of Reiki

Just for today, I will not be angry

The first principle of Reiki, “Just for today, I will not be angry,” serves as a powerful reminder for practitioners to release any pent-up anger and embrace a state of inner peace. Anger is a natural human emotion, but when it is not constructively managed, it can lead to various physical and psychological health issues.

In Reiki, anger is viewed as a barrier to healing and spiritual growth. When a person is consumed by anger, their energy becomes stagnant, making it difficult for the body to heal itself. The first principle encourages practitioners to let go of anger and negativity so they can achieve a higher level of consciousness.


This principle is not meant to suggest that one should suppress their anger or ignore their emotions. Instead, it encourages practitioners to acknowledge their feelings and find healthy ways to express them. By doing so, they can avoid holding onto negative energy that can cause physical and emotional harm.

The principle “Just for today” emphasizes the importance of staying present and focusing on the present moment. When a person holds onto anger from the past or worries about the future, they are not fully present in their current surroundings. By staying in the present moment and releasing anger, practitioners can experience a sense of peace and tranquility.

Overall, the first principle of Reiki reminds us to be mindful of our emotions and avoid allowing anger to control our lives. By cultivating a sense of inner peace and letting go of negativity, practitioners can live a more fulfilling and joyful life.


Just for today, I will not worry

The second principle of Reiki is a powerful reminder to let go of fear and anxiety. It emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and having faith in the universe. “Just for today, I will not worry” is a mantra that can be recited daily to help practitioners stay grounded and focused on the present. 

Worrying about the future or dwelling on past events can have a significant impact on our mental and physical health. It can cause stress, anxiety, and even depression over time. Reiki practitioners understand the negative effects of worry and encourage their clients to let go of any fears or concerns that may be weighing them down. 

Living in the present moment is crucial because it allows us to be fully present and engaged in our lives. When we worry about what might happen in the future or dwell on past events, we miss out on the beauty of the present moment. Reiki practitioners recognize that our energy and focus are most effective in the present moment. By letting go of worries and focusing on the here and now, we can access the flow of energy within our bodies and connect with a higher power. 


Having faith in the universe is another important element of the second principle. It reminds us that there is a higher power at work and that we are not alone. By trusting in the universe, we open ourselves up to new opportunities, experiences, and blessings. This is an important aspect of Reiki because it allows us to let go of control and surrender to the natural flow of life. 

In summary, the second principle of Reiki is a powerful reminder to let go of fear and anxiety, live in the present moment, and have faith in the universe. It encourages us to stay grounded, focused, and connected to the energy within our bodies. By reciting the mantra “Just for today, I will not worry,” we can cultivate a more peaceful and balanced state of mind, allowing us to live our lives to the fullest.


Just for today, I will be grateful

The third principle of Reiki, “Just for today, I will be grateful,” encourages Reiki practitioners to develop a lasting sense of gratitude and appreciation for the blessings in their lives. It is believed that by focusing on what they are thankful for, individuals can cultivate a more positive and abundant mindset, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and peaceful life.

Practicing gratitude is one of the most powerful ways to shift our mindset and increase our overall sense of well-being. By intentionally focusing on the good things in our lives, we become more aware of the positive aspects of our experience, rather than dwelling on negative thoughts or worries. This can have a profound impact on our mental and emotional health, as well as our physical well-being.


In Reiki practice, this principle is often emphasized as a way to balance and harmonize the energy centers in the body, known as chakras. When we are grateful, we open ourselves up to receiving positive energy, which can help to release blockages and promote healing on many levels.

Just as Reiki encourages us to be grateful for what we have, it also teaches us to let go of negative emotions like anger, fear, and sadness. By acknowledging these emotions and then releasing them, we are better able to connect with the present moment and experience greater peace and joy in our lives.

In sum, the third principle of Reiki invites us to cultivate a deep sense of gratitude for the many blessings in our lives, and to approach each day with a positive and abundant mindset. By committing to this practice, we can experience a greater sense of inner calm and harmony, promoting healing and balance in all areas of our lives.


Just for today, I will do my work honestly

The fourth principle of Reiki is a powerful reminder for individuals to approach their work with integrity and honesty. It emphasizes the importance of ethical behavior, not just in the workplace, but in all aspects of life. This principle encourages practitioners to be open and truthful in all their dealings, to act honorably, and to hold themselves to the highest moral standards.

Honesty is a fundamental value in the practice of Reiki. Practitioners commit to being transparent and truthful in their interactions with others, as well as in their own self-reflection. They strive to be authentic and sincere in all their actions, never compromising their values or beliefs.

In addition to personal ethics, this principle also promotes a sense of accountability for one’s work. Practitioners are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions, to work diligently and with integrity, and to deliver high-quality work that reflects their commitment to excellence.


The fourth principle of Reiki is not just about external behavior, but also about cultivating inner qualities of honesty and transparency. Practitioners are encouraged to examine their own attitudes and beliefs, to uncover any areas where they may be holding onto falsehoods or limiting beliefs. By remaining open to feedback and willing to make changes when necessary, practitioners can develop a deeper sense of authenticity and integrity in their work.

Ultimately, the fourth principle of Reiki reflects the universal values of honesty and integrity that are essential to a fulfilling and meaningful life. By embodying these principles, practitioners can cultivate a sense of purpose and direction in their work, and make a positive impact on the world around them.


Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing

The fifth principle of Reiki, “Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing,” is based on the idea of interconnectedness and the belief that everything in the universe is interconnected in some way. This principle encourages individuals to treat all living beings with kindness, compassion, and respect.

At its core, the fifth principle of Reiki is a call to action for practitioners to recognize and respect the sanctity of all life. This includes not only other humans, but also animals, plants, and even inanimate objects. By being kind to every living thing, individuals can create a more harmonious and connected world.

In practice, being kind to every living thing can take many forms. It can mean being mindful of one’s impact on the environment and taking steps to reduce waste and pollution. It can mean respecting the autonomy and well-being of animals by not supporting industries that exploit and mistreat them. It can mean showing kindness and compassion to all individuals, regardless of their background or beliefs.


In addition to promoting compassion and respect for all life, the fifth principle of Reiki also emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and living in the present moment. By focusing on the present and being fully present in one’s interactions with others, individuals can cultivate a greater sense of empathy and understanding.

Ultimately, the fifth principle of Reiki is a powerful reminder of our interconnectedness and the importance of treating all living beings with kindness and compassion. By embodying this principle in our daily lives, we can create a more harmonious and compassionate world for ourselves and for future generations.

How to connect with positive energy – using positive affirmations and visualizations 

Connecting with positive energy is an essential aspect of our well-being, and using positive affirmations and visualizations are powerful tools to help us achieve that. Positive affirmations are statements that we can use to reframe our thoughts and shift our focus from negative to positive. For instance, phrases such as “I am capable,” “I am enough,” or “I choose happiness” can immensely help us combat negative thoughts and create a more positive outlook. Visualizations, on the other hand, involve creating mental images of positive scenarios, feelings, or outcomes. By picturing these uplifting images in our minds, we can align our energy with positivity and attract it into our lives. So, by practicing these affirmations and visualizations regularly, we can connect with positive energy and lead a more fulfilling life.

How to practice gratitude and loving-kindness towards yourself

Practicing gratitude and loving-kindness towards yourself is a powerful tool to cultivate self-love and promote well-being. One effective way to practice gratitude is by setting aside a few minutes each day to reflect on things you are thankful for, such as your accomplishments, your good health, or the people around you who love and support you. Similarly, practicing self-compassion and loving-kindness can help you to be kind and gentle with yourself. You can do this by offering yourself positive affirmations, treating yourself with kindness and respect, and prioritizing self-care activities such as meditation, exercise or spending time with loved ones. By practicing these techniques, you will become more connected and compassionate towards yourself, and ultimately live a more joyful and fulfilling life.

By reflecting on these five Reiki principles, it is possible to find inner harmony and stress relief. Taking the time to practice mindfulness among these precepts can help you become more in tune with yourself and reach a deeper level of relaxation. Remember, peace and joy are found in stillness and balance – so take the time to let go, surrender, and be kind to yourself. From healing physical ailments to calming emotions, Reiki offers a path towards self care and well-being. With the knowledge of Reiki principles, anyone can be equipped with the tools necessary for navigating life’s trials with grace and presence. Pasquale has many years of experience providing insight into Reiki healing – if you’re looking for support in your journey for personal growth and enlightenment, don’t hesitate to give him a call today!

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