The five principles of Reiki that are also life principles.

There are five core principles of Reiki. In every Level 1 Reiki course, these five principles are taught like a code of ethics to embody the spirit of Reiki.

But the Reiki Principles aren’t just for those learning Reiki, they are also life principles. A way of live life and serve as guidelines on living a peaceful and mindful life.

They are beautiful gentle reminders that can be repeated as affirmations, both when life is great and also when life feels tough. They are a simple and a beautiful way to live life with mindfulness.

Just for today..

Each of the principles always begin with “Just for today”. Just for today is about coming back in to the present moment and reminding us to take one day at a time. To not look ahead and be consumed with anxiety. To simply focus on today, the present moment, and take one step at a time.

Just for today also helps to commit to a new habit. It helps you focus on the present day; and with time, one day becomes weeks, then months and years. And before you know it, you are well and truly embodying the principles!

Just for today, I let go of anger.
Anger is a natural response to certain events. Staying angry at someone or something can generate a lot of negative energy. Suppressed anger can poison the body, so it is important to acknowledge and release anger safely. This principle reminds us that letting go of held anger, which blocks the flow of energy, helps us come back to ourselves and not hold it in our bodies.

Anger is so important to work on. If you’d like to read more on releasing anger, please have a read of this blog about ways to release anger safely.

Just for today, I will not worry.
Worry can also make us sick. Worry is fear about the past or about the future. There is no point worrying about the past because it has already happened. And there is no point worrying about the future because worry alone does not change the outcome. When you look at worry in this way, it is obvious that worry is wasted energy. This principle, as simple as it sounds, encourages us to let go of the stress of worry and live in the present moment.

Just for today, I will be grateful.
Gratitude is a simple yet powerful practice. Sometimes gratitude can be difficult to embody, so start small. eg I am blessed to drink clean water, I am blessed to wake up in a bed, I am blessed to be able to walk, etc.

Gratitude helps us focus on the blessings in our lives and feel truly thankful for what we have. Practicing gratitude regularly can enhance our wellbeing. The more we focus on what we’re grateful for, the more abundance we create. Life can be challenging sometimes but there the more you focus on the things to be grateful for, the more your heart will expand in to unconditional love, joy and fulfillment.

Just for today, I will do my work honestly.
There’s so much to be said for personal integrity and honesty in whatever it is you do. By working honestly, respectfully and with gratitude ensures you are treating others the same way you would like to be treated. Whatever you do, do your best and give it your all by committing to personal and professional responsibilities in an ethical way.

Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing.
This principle is all about kindness and compassion, both to ourselves and to others. Honour and respect the Earth and all other living things. As all souls on Earth are connected, we form a “whole”. Therefore what happens to one part of the whole affects the other parts. This is known as the Law of Cause and effect. Whatever energy you put out, be it positive or negative, comes back to you. In this manner, it is important to be kind to yourself and others.

It may be challenging to maintain and live your life according to the principles. But by practicing these principles daily, you can align your energy with a higher purpose, fostering peace, love and healing in your life and others. If you liked this blog, drop a comment below, and feel free to share it with anyone who you think might benefit from it!

By the way, you may see the principles worded a little differently elsewhere. This is because there are some nuances in translating these from Japanese (where Reiki originated from) to English. And also because there are some different interpretations adapted for cultural context. However, the Principles are more about embodying the spirit of them, rather than strict paraphrasing.

If you like what you’ve read, or feel like a personal Reiki session would benefit you, feel free to read more about Reiki or book in a session.