September 5th, 2016 - The 5 Pillars of Reiki

A friend of mine recently inspired me to share one of the best gifts I learned through Reiki.  She mentioned that she liked using a certain centering tool to calm herself and her (eight!) kids.  When she told me this "prayer" was from Reiki, I had one of those ever-welcome "A-ha!" moments to share with my readers ;-)

Many people know that The 5 Pillars of Reiki  come from Mikao Usui, the Original recipient of Reiki.  However, the version I use incorporates the same concepts, but uses language that speaks to my heart and comes from my friend Reiki Master/Teacher Jane.  Here is my favorite expression:

"Just for today, I choose Peace.
Just for today, I choose Joy.
I live my life with Love and Integrity.
I am Kind to all Living Beings.
I express Gratitude for my many Blessings."

Some of my students noticed similarity to some 12-step programs which use the "Just for today..." phrase.  I realized that invoking this one idea of being in the present, we become grounded.  Being grounded, we are NOT replaying past events or fretting about what may - or may not - happen in the future! 

Saying this in the morning helps me to remember to live today the best way I know how and to appreciate the gift of the new day - even when it's raining - or too hot - or snowing!

I've used this as a prayer before meals to help me invoke Reiki at the dinner table to bless my food, my family, and myself.  I also find it makes a big difference when everyone at the table says a line or two!

Of course, I use it at the start of any Reiki session, but I even use it at bedtime to close the day in peace and I do rest easier. 

Try it - share it - live it ...
the best way you know how.

Peace!