Reiki (pronounced Ray-Key) is a Japanese word representing Universal Life Energy, the energy inherent in every living thing. Rei, means "Higher Power" 'or God's Wisdom and Ki, is "life force energy".

Reiki energy comes from the Divine, and is one of the most ancient healing arts known to humans. It helps us to relax. It helps us access our inner healing power.

Reiki acts as a wonderful support for people going through stressful or transformational times. It is use to help in a range of recovery work, to assist in healing of acute or chronic ailments, to reduce stress and pain levels. The National Institutes of Health is among established medical facilities researching its use in clinical settings. A recent issue of RN Magazine featured Reiki in nursing as its cover article. HMOs are noticing that people who receive regular Reiki treatments use less medication with greater results, have begun recommending Reiki for some clients.

Reiki is not a substitute for qualified medical or professional care. Reiki is instead a valuable wellness tool providing stress reduction, relaxation, relief from aches, pain and fatigue, increased love for self and others, and a peaceful restorative experience that helps to improve health and enhance the quality of life. Reiki is fast becoming a profoundly useful component of today's blend of western and complementary therapies.

I have always used my hands to soothe animals. I have offered comfort to everything from family cats to hummingbirds who accidentally found themselves inside of our home. On a few occassions some birds have decided to pause just for a moment before flying away. I always feel blessed when tht happens!

Reiki is for all animals because it is gentle and noninvasive. Reiki is often received as a comforting pain reducing warmth, often relieving symptoms of discomfort and stress and powerful results. Animals seem to be very attracted to Reiki's energy to heal. When working on clients in my home or where there are cats, I am usually joined by one or more of the cats.

I think that animals are perceptive to Rieki energy in a way that is different from people. Like small children, they may absorb a lot of energy in a short time. So I always stay open for signs tha the animal or person has had enough Reiki for the moment. with cats and dogs, they may take breaks during the session an only want Rieki flowing toward them from a distance.

What if your animal is healthy? Reiki will enhance relaxation and promote their sense of peace and contentment and their overall well being. During illness, Reiki is a wonderful complement to other healing methods. The NIHCAM has shown that Reiki can reduce the effects of chemotherapy and has shown that it can be supportive in healing from a variety of illnesses.

When animals are in need of transitional care prior to dying, Reiki helps to ease their movement into death. It provides a powerful, yet very gentle means of giving comfort and relief from pain and anxiety in life's last moments.