Founder of the Usui System of Reiki Healing
Dr. Mikao Usui (1865–1926) was the founder of modern Reiki. He was born in Japan into a loving Buddhist family and grew up curious, intelligent, and devoted to understanding life and healing. From a young age, he studied widely, medicine, psychology, and spiritual teachings, always searching for a way to support others without exhausting himself.
As a young man, Dr. Usui travelled across Japan, China, and the West to learn different healing systems and spiritual practices. His journey wasn’t a straight path; he worked in many roles, from teaching to government service, always continuing his studies and seeking a deeper understanding.
Eventually, he became a Tendai Buddhist monk and returned to spiritual life near Mount Kurama, a sacred mountain known for its peaceful energy and ancient practice sites.
The 21-Day Meditation on Mount Kuramarama
To deepen his practice and seek clarity, Dr. Usui retreated alone to Mount Kurama for 21 days. During this time, he meditated, prayed, fasted, and spent time in nature, even meditating beneath a waterfall for purification and spiritual clarity.
At the end of his retreat, he experienced a powerful moment of spiritual awakening. He perceived sacred symbols and felt a profound flow of energy entering through the crown of his head. In that moment, he realised he had found what he had been searching for: a way to channel healing energy without becoming depleted.
He called this system:
Usui Shiki Reiki Ryoho
“The Usui System of Reiki Healing.”
Sharing Reiki With the World
Dr. Usui opened a healing clinic and devoted himself to helping others. He worked with great compassion, especially with those who were struggling or living in poverty. Over time, he realised the importance of balance — that receiving healing is most transformative when paired with personal responsibility and appreciation.
This understanding helped shape how Reiki is shared today, with respect, gratitude, and a loving exchange of energy.
A Legacy of Love & Healing
His dedication quickly spread, and even the Japanese government recognised his service with an honorary award. During his lifetime, Dr. Usui trained 16 Reiki Masters. One of them, Dr. Chujiro Hayashi, later taught Mrs. Hawayo Takata, who brought Reiki to the West, allowing this gentle healing tradition to reach hearts all around the world.
Dr. Usui passed peacefully in 1926, but his legacy lives beautifully on. Today, Reiki is practised globally and continues to bring comfort, balance, and peace to countless people, a testament to his lifelong devotion to compassion and healing.
