Reiki, The True Story: An Exploration of Usui Reiki

by Don Beckett

The True Story is a comprehensive investigation of Reiki as both a healing practice and a lifelong path of spiritual awakening. Author and Reiki expert Don Beckett weaves together a new story about Reiki’s origins and its founder’s true vision. The foundation of this book is the teachings of a group of Reiki founder Makao Usui’s original students, who held their master’s knowledge in secrecy for more than seventy years.

After a general introduction to Reiki, Beckett presents a thorough history of the discipline (including the testimony of some of Usui’s students) as well as an in-depth manual for practice. The author rounds out his exploration with material from world renowned, contemporary Reiki Masters, Beckett’s own insights into the nature of Reiki energy, as well as information about the chakra system, yin and yang, and the Five Transformations. The book concludes with a chapter entitled “Beyond Reiki,” which bridges knowledge of Reiki with the lesser-known practice of Johrei. Thorough explanations coupled with cutting-edge discoveries about Reiki’s past make this a compelling volume for novice and experienced practitioners alike.

Genres: Spirituality

229 pages, Paperback

First published April 7, 2009

Reviews

[Marcel Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I have read on Reiki to date and makes an excellent companion to Reiki for life by Penelope Quest.

[S. Harrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book must be taken in the spirit it is written, which is to expand upon Reiki's path into the west. There are arguments around the rewriting of the history of Reiki to include aspects thought not to have been originally taught by Mikao Usui, such as the kotodama, variations on transmitting attunements, and the insight into Usui's experience that led to the formalization of Reiki as a system. I completely respect those arguments and feel a sense of protection for the traditional study and the culture that created it. With that in mind, understand that this book challenges facets of that tradition. If you are not comfortable with that, this book is not for you.

That said, I find it engaging and well-written. I cannot speak to the validity of Reiki's history; therefore, I cannot judge the accuracy of this work. It is compelling and carries with it a sense of honor and respect for the Usui tradition, despite its deviations. This book could appeal to someone beginning Reiki, but it is more likely to address questions and curiosities of a seasoned practitioner, as well as pique established methodologies.