Short Definition
An ancient Tibetan healing system in which light hand placements channel healing energies to the patient. Used to treat emotional and mental distress as well as chronic and acute physical problems, it assists the patient in achieving spiritual focus and clarity.

Expanded Information
Reiki is a spiritual healing art. It is not massage nor is it based on belief or suggestion. A reiki session usually takes an hour, some practitiones offer 1 1/2 hour sessions. The session is performed by a Reiki Practitioner (RP or RMT) using specific hand positions. During the reiki session, the client is fully clothed while comfortably reclining on a massage table or seated in a chair. It is stress-reducing and a very relaxing experience.

Reiki is:

• A subtle and effective form of energy healing using spiritually guided life force energy

• Practiced in every country of the world

• Being used in many setting including hospitals, hospice, as well as in private practice and in self-care

• A wonderful complementary modality in a personal wellness or healing program

Defining qualities of Reiki:

• A practice of transmitting healing energy through the hands

• Passed on through the attunement process

• The energy is not guided by the practitioner, but the energy has it's own innate wisdom to guide itself.

• Reiki energy is not based on belief, faith or suggestion.

A Reiki session can help ease tension and stress, and can help support the body to facilitate healing on all levels- physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. A session is pleasant and relaxing and is often utilized for one's own personal wellness, not just illness.

Source: http://www.iarp.org