The Five Principles (Gokai)
Reiki, a form of complementary therapy developed in Japan by Mikao Usui, is founded on the concept of ‘life force energy’ flowing through the body. While the physical practice of Reiki involves gentle touch or hands-hovering techniques, the system’s true foundation lies in its spiritual and ethical code: the Five Principles, or Gokai.
Five Reiki Principles
These principles serve as daily reminders for practitioners and recipients alike, guiding them toward a life of harmony, peace, and conscious action.
Ethical Practice in Reiki
Understand the importance of ethics in Reiki to ensure respectful, safe, and complementary healing experiences.
Holistic Wellness Support
Explore how Reiki complements Western medicine by promoting harmony and balance for a healthier lifestyle.
Do Not Worry
This principle encourages releasing fear, anxiety, and excessive concern over the future or past events. Worry blocks the natural flow of energy and joy. By choosing not to worry just for today, individuals cultivate trust in the universe and foster a state of inner peace and acceptance.
Do Not Anger
Anger is recognized as a corrosive emotion that harms both the individual experiencing it and those around them. This principle calls for the conscious release of resentment, frustration, and fury. It encourages responding to situations with compassion and understanding, rather than immediate emotional reactivity, thereby promoting inner calm.
Be Grateful
Gratitude shifts focus from what one lacks to the blessings already present. It is perhaps the most powerful of the principles, as cultivating thankfulness instantly raises one’s energetic vibration and fosters a positive outlook. Acknowledging the small and large gifts in life promotes humility and contentment.
Work Diligently
Often translated as “Earn your living honestly” or “Do your work with integrity,” this principle emphasizes active participation in life and professional conduct. It encourages dedication, focus, and purposeful effort in one’s work and spiritual practice. It is about applying oneself fully and honestly in every endeavor.
Be Kind to Every Living Thing
This principle extends compassion, kindness, and respect not only to all other people but to animals, plants, and the environment. It is the core message of interconnectedness, reminding us that we are all part of the same universal energy field. Treating others with gentleness is a fundamental part of a balanced life.
Ethical Considerations in Reiki Practice
While the principles guide personal conduct, professional Reiki practice demands adherence to clear ethical standards to protect the client and maintain the integrity of the modality.
Consent and Client Autonomy
A practitioner must explain what Reiki is, what it is not (it is not a cure, a diagnosis, or a substitute for medical care), and what the procedure involves before the session begins.
The client must be free to stop the session at any time, and their decisions regarding their own healthcare are paramount.
Professional Boundaries and Scope of Practice
Reiki is a complementary therapy and is not a medical or psychological treatment. Ethical practitioners must not:
Diagnose medical of mental health conditions.
Advise a client to discontinue medication or delay seeking professional medical care.
Prescribe medications or treatments.
The practitioner’s role is strictly to provide energy balancing, supporting the client’s own healing journey in conjunction with other healthcare professionals.
Confidentiality
All information shared by the client—including their personal health history, reasons for seeking treatment, and the details of the session—must be kept strictly confidential.
The practitioner must adhere to the highest standards of privacy, sharing client information only with explicit written consent, or as required by law.