Reiki Gassho and Present Moment Living
We read and hear much today regarding "being in the moment" and mindful living from modern authors and healers such as Thich Nhat Han, Wayne Dyer, and Eckhart Tolle among others. Our days begin early and end late into the evening filed with work, exercise, child care, relationships, and daily chores and errands. In the midst of all that we are and do, our souls cry out for a respite of stillness and peace—a small voice calls to us to slow down and listen to the needs of our inner life where Spirit can speak.
The spiritual path of Reiki offers us a wonderful opportunity to do just that! Dr. Mikao Usui, the founder of the modern practice of Reiki, taught his students the practice of Gassho meditation as a way of clearing the mind and opening the heart and chakras. Gassho means "two hands coming together" and he practiced it twice a day in the morning and evening for his own spiritual and physical healing. He encouraged all his students to do the same for their personal and spiritual growth as they practiced Reiki.
This type of mediation can be done sitting or standing for about 15-30 minutes per session. Close your eyes. Fold your hands in the prayer position with your fingers pointing up and your thumbs touching the heart chakra at the middle of your chest. Focus all your attention on the point where your middle fingers meet. If thoughts arise, acknowledge them and then gently let them go and refocus on the point where your middle fingers are touching. You aren’t messing up if thoughts arise—just refocus on the middle fingers.
When your mind is still, you may want to focus on one of the Reiki Ideals for your daily mediation, reflecting on a small section that personally speaks to your mind and heart:
The miraculous medicine of all diseases:
Just for today, do not be angry.
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 founder ...Mikao Usui
—Marita Aicher-Swartz, Usui and Tibetan Reiki Master,
Karuna Reiki® Master, Rainbow Reiki Instructor
(This article was published in our 2nd Qtr 2007 Newsletter)
