Reiki Principals

The Reiki Precepts, also better known here in the West as the Reiki Principles, are five daily core spiritual practices. These principles may be written slightly differently from Reiki Master to Reiki Master but hold the same intention. The words originated from similar teachings of Tendai Buddhist and Shugendo religion:

Do not bear anger,

For anger is illusion.

Do not be worried,

Because fear is distraction.

Be true to your way and your being,

Show compassion to yourself and others,

Because this is the center of Buddhahood.

According to Penelope Quest's Reiki for Life Mikao Usui, the founder of the system we call Reiki, originally adapted the following version as a prayer to be said twice a day to improve their personal and spiritual development.

The secret art of inviting happiness

The miraculous medicine of all diseases

Just for today, do not anger

Do not worry and be filled with gratitude

Devote yourself to your work and be kind to people

Every morning and evening join your hands in prayer,

Pray these words to your heart

And chant these words with your mouth

Usui Reiki treatment for the improvement of body and mind.

The version I was taught:

Just for today, trust.

Just for today, accept.

Honor your teachers, parents, neighbors and friends.

Give thanks for all living things.

Earn your living honestly.

Another common version you may see:

Just for today I will let go of anger

Just for today I will let go of worry

Today I will count my many blessings

Today I will do my work honestly

Today I will be kind to every living creature.

Just for today is meant to be a reminder to live in the present moment. To simply be aware. A reminder to be mindful. Be thankful for the people in your life. Allowing yourself to truly experience what is happening in a given moment. To honestly have appreciation for the world around you.

📷: Sharon McCutcheon