Mikao Usui developed Usui Reiki in Japan in the early 1900s after a period of deep spiritual study, meditation, and personal reflection on Mount Kurama near Kyoto. Reiki, which translates loosely to "universal life energy," was created as a gentle healing practice intended to support balance within the mind, body, and spirit. Usui believed that energy flows through all living things, and when that energy becomes blocked or depleted, emotional, physical, and spiritual imbalance can occur. Through light touch or hands placed slightly above the body, Reiki practitioners aim to help encourage relaxation, energetic flow, and overall well-being. Over time, Usui Reiki spread from Japan to the West and has become one of the most widely practiced holistic healing modalities in the world.

Many people seek Reiki sessions for stress relief, emotional healing, grounding, and energetic renewal. Benefits commonly reported include deep relaxation, improved sleep, reduced anxiety, emotional clarity, and a stronger sense of inner peace. Some people also feel more emotionally balanced, spiritually connected, or physically lighter after a session. While Reiki is not intended to replace medical care, many use it alongside traditional treatments as a supportive wellness practice that encourages rest, mindfulness, and healing on multiple levels.