Essential Reiki, by Diane Stein exposes the long kept secrets of Reiki, an ancient and universal life force energy. This controversial book is essential to any serious Reiki practitioner. It is well written, and makes information accessible that many traditional/conservative Reiki masters believe should be kept from the general public.

For me, I learned some interesting things that were not shared by either of the Reiki Masters that I studied with, and I certainly value (and have applied) the new insights that I have gained. I really loved the wonderful detail about the historical background of Mikao Usui, as well as the channeled information about how Reiki was brought to humanity.

When I first began my Reiki training, I was motivated by a strong desire to heal myself and others, including animals. I’ve since been attuned to four levels of Usui Reiki (Reiki Master Teacher), as well as had a Reiki I attunement twice. I was given some materials, but in my lineage, the materials are passed down through each generation and are often photocopied and scanned versions over the years - akin to a family photo album.

Everything except a Reiki attunement is provided in this book. Some subjects include: hand placements for humans and animals, distance Reiki, emotional sources of disease, exercises, and meditations to increase the flow of Ki (life-force) through your system.  

Diane guides the reader through all three levels of Reiki, allowing the gifts of Reiki to be demystified. The sharing of the reiki symbols as well as the inclusion of the attunement process itself is a bold and controversial move, especially at the time this book was written (pre-internet). Essential Reiki also contains many useful exercises to help a person become more psychically aware of spiritual energies within themselves, and their environment. I find myself referring back here often.

For those interested in learning more about Reiki and/or expanding your personal healing skill set reading this book is a great place to start.

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