Sensei Usui, the founder of Usui Ryoho Reiki, encouraged Reiki practitioners to say and live the five Reiki principles – or Reiki precepts – every morning and every night. These principles are etched on the Usui Memorial Stone which was erected in 1927 in honor of Dr. Usui’s Reiki contributions, his life as example of being in service for others, and his quest for learning.

What is said on the Usui Memorial Stone regarding the five principles, has been translated by the International Center for Reiki Training as follows: ​

Don’t get angry today. Don’t be grievous. Express your thanks. Be diligent in your business. Be kind to others.

Translations of the Reiki Principles are slightly varied, and if you Google ‘Reiki Precepts’ or ‘Reiki Principles’, you’ll find a variety of similar interpretations. I understand that any direct translation of Japanese to another language is more of a suggestion. Perhaps this is why the different translations.  The Reiki precepts remind us that in each moment, and for every day, we have a choice to be mindful in our emotions and our actions, towards ourselves and others. Reciting these precepts as a daily practice for the practitioner is part of our inward journey for self-reflection, growing awareness and inner healing.  

The word ​’translate​’ according to Merriam-Webster means “to turn into one’s own or another language; to transfer or turn from one set of symbols into another”. I find this definition interesting, particularly the use of the word ‘symbol’, because Reiki practitioners who complete level two or second degree training learn how to apply Reiki symbols to further their practice.

Shortly after my very first Reiki class, I felt compelled to modify the precepts – translate them? – in such a way that could speak to my journey. I still use them today and I hope without any disrespect to Sensei Usui:

Just for today…
I do not worry
I do not anger
I am humbly filled with gratitude
My true self is reflected in my livelihood
I am compassionate and respectful for all living things, including myself

What inspires you to come to a place of awareness?

Reiki Blessings,

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