I find it incredibly interesting to learn about the original intentions behind Reiki. While modern conversations often focus on how Reiki supports physical recovery and the body’s natural systems, historical texts reveal that mental and emotional recalibration was always at the forefront of Mikao Usui’s work.
Reiki researcher, and member of the Usui Reiki Ryoho Gakkai Japan, Mamoru Wakatake recently shared a beautiful translation regarding the true historical purpose of the Second Symbol (what we call the Harmony or Mental-Emotional Symbol), based on historical Japanese documents dating to the 1920’s.
He notes:
To align our minds, we perform Kenyoku (dry bathing), Joshin Kokyu (cleansing breath), and Gassho (hands pressed together in prayer).
And to align the bodies of ourselves and others, we practice sensing Hibiki (resonance / sensation in the hands) and perform Oteate (hands-on healing).Usui Sensei also states in the “Kokai Denju Setsumei” (Explanation of Public Instruction):
“It does not only heal physical illnesses. It can also correct mental afflictions — agony, weakness, cowardice, indecision, nervousness, and other bad habits of character.“Mind and body improvement does not only cure physical disease. The improvement of mental bad habits. The “Second Symbol” is granted precisely to put this into practice. It is not a mere permission — it is a specific symbol with a clear therapeutic purpose called “Seiheki Chiryo” (Habit Treatment).”
This is firm evidence that mental conditions were also the target of treatment.
Our Takeaway
Healing isn’t just about physical relief; it’s about addressing the “mental afflictions” as Mikao Usui calls them. The overthinking, the nervousness, overwhelm, and the habitual reactions that drain our energy. When we practice the cleansing breath or use the Harmony Symbol, we are actively working to calm our nervous system and release those “bad habits of character”. Mamoru Wakatake mentions the Seiheki Chiryo technique which we teach in our Level 2 courses (Lesson 12 in the manuals). This is a very effective technique blending hand positions with repeatedly saying an affirmation.
But remember, it is not just the Seiheki Chiryo technique that brings this deep mental harmony. While the Harmony Symbol makes this focus more pronounced, any Reiki session naturally soothes the mind and emotions. As our Level 1 students know so well, even without the symbols, Reiki always has a profoundly positive impact. So, the next time you feel that familiar flutter of overthinking or overwhelm, remember that you already have the tools in your hands to bring yourself back to center.
