A Road Map For A More Simple, Satisfying Life
Five Principles of Reiki
Mikao Usui, the founder of Reiki, created five principles, also known as precepts, to help people lead healthier and happier lives. Each begins with "just for today" to help serve and guide us with simple strategies for a more grounded, present existence. A closer look reveals living in the current moment is all we need to do. If not, tomorrow is always a new day—a new opportunity. The Reiki principles are as gentle as Reiki itself: fostering tolerance of ourselves and others while being universally supportive of us all.
Just for today, be grateful.
Gratitude takes root in our hearts and senses from one beautiful moment to the next. Think of anything you are grateful for today, big or small: the sun that rose this morning, something you admire about yourself, the driver who yielded while you merged. Gratitude helps us see that not everything is terrible and keeps our hearts open to tenderness.
Just for today, let go of worry.
The problem with worry is that it is seldom productive. It often results in uncontrolled mental activity, to the point that we fret even when we would rather not. Worrying can even lead us to do things we ordinarily would not do. Instead, seek to live in peace in this very moment. Focus on the in-breath of air into your lungs, and then the out-breath, and feel yourself let go.
Just for today, let go of anger.
Anger is a normal human emotion that signals injustice or that something is wrong. When it gets out of control, however, it can overrun us with destructiveness. Instead, acknowledge the anger and try to identify what is causing it. Take a moment to consider your action or inaction regarding it. Then, allow the feeling to dissipate.
Just for today, work honestly.
Being honest is synonymous with being in line with your spirit. It means listening to yourself, making good decisions for yourself and others, and allowing abundance to flow. You accept what happens, better distinguish between good and bad, right from wrong, and precipitate a domino effect of truth on those around you.
Just for today, be kind.
The fifth and last principle reminds us of the importance of compassion, both for ourselves and others. Compassion for yourself builds healthy self-esteem, while compassion for others means you become more understanding. This, in turn, breeds improvements in your relationships that will, in turn, bring the same kindness back to you.