Reiki Healing Reiki is a form of complementary therapy relating to energy healing. According to proponents, it works with the energy fields around the body and involves the transfer of universal energy from the practitioner’s palms to the client. The word ‘Reiki’ means ‘mysterious atmosphere, miraculous sign’. It comes from the Japanese words ‘Rei’, meaning universal, and ‘Ki’, meaning life energy. An energy healing type, Reiki helps in improving the flow of energy around the body which enable relaxation, relieve pain, speed healing, and reduces other symptoms of illness. Mikao Usui developed Usui Reiki Ryoho, the most current form of Reiki, in 1922. However, people have practiced Reiki for about 2,500 years.