Attaining Anshin Ritsumei - Reiki as a Way of Life

Anshin Ritsumei - Reiki as a Way of Life

Reiki, a Japanese healing technique, has gained popularity worldwide for its ability to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. Reiki, which means "universal life energy", is based on the idea that there is a life force energy that flows through all living things. This energy can become blocked, leading to physical, emotional, and spiritual imbalances due to trauma and everyday stress. Reiki practitioners use their hands to channel this energy, helping to remove blockages and restore balance.

Practicing reiki for the past two years, especially during the pandemic, I do not only see it as a method to heal others and self, instead I also learned to see it as the way of living life. Recently, I came across a term called Anshin Ritsumei, a concept rooted in Reiki which encourages individuals to cultivate a deep sense of inner peace and tranquility. 

Mikao Usui and Anshin Ritsumei

Let us go first to the story Mikao Usui and his first encounter with Reiki. On March 1922, Usui went to Mount Kurama in Kyoto, during this time he was seeking solitude, asking about his purpose in life. After spending 21 days there, he attained Anshin Ritsumei and received healing energy which was then called Reiki. 

Understanding Anshin Ritsumei

Anshin (安心) is the Japanese word for feeling safe and having no worries, a state of being in peace. Ritsumei (立命) is a word combined with two Chinese characters, 立 and 命. Ritsu (立) which means to stand up and Mei (命) means life or fate. Combined together it signifies standing tall to whatever life throws at you and being passionate in doing the thing that you love the most. Hence, Anshin Ritsumei, indicates "a state of complete peace of mind, accepting of all the circumstances, good and bad, with a calm heart". Anshin Ritsumei is a central principle in Reiki practice. It goes beyond merely receiving Reiki treatments and delves into the realm of mindfulness and self-awareness. Anshin Ritsumei teaches us to let go of worries, fears, and attachments, allowing us to experience a profound sense of calmness and clarity to fulfill our Earthly purpose.

The Five Principles of Reiki

The five principles of Reiki by Mikao Usui are deeply rooted to the state of Anshin Ritsumei.

"The secret method of inviting blessings, the spiritual medicine of many illnesses”

• Just for today, I will not be angry.
• Just for today, I will not worry.
• Just for today, I will be grateful.
• Just for today, I will do my work earnestly.
• Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing.
  

  
  

  “In the Mornings and evenings sit in the gassho position (hands held in prayer) and repeat these words out loud and in your heart. For the improvement of mind and body.

  Usui Spiritual Healing Method. The founder, Mikao Usui.”

These principles serve as a guide for living a peaceful and fulfilling life. By focusing on the present moment and committing to these principles, one can cultivate a sense of inner peace and clarity.

Living in the Present Moment

One of the key aspects of Anshin Ritsumei is the practice of living in the present moment, knowing that everything pass by and temporary. By focusing our attention on the here and now, we can let go of regrets from the past and worries about the future. 
"Anshin-ritsumei embodies a profound state of perpetual harmony with the Universe, where one experiences an enduring sense of peace. This represents the authentic essence of 'being alive'—a state of existence that ignites the soul with vibrant vitality." Knowing your true purpose in this life, which is just to live and maintaining balance inwardly and outwardly, and being passionate in fulfilling it everyday, even little by little. 

Embracing Gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful tool for cultivating inner peace and contentment. By acknowledging and appreciating the blessings in our lives, we shift our focus from what is lacking to what is abundant. Incorporating a gratitude practice into our daily routine can help us align with the energy of Anshin Ritsumei.

Letting Go of Attachments

Attachments to material possessions, relationships, or outcomes can create unnecessary stress and hinder our journey towards Anshin Ritsumei. By practicing detachment, we free ourselves from the burden of expectations and open ourselves up to a more peaceful existence. 

Nurturing Self-Care

Self-care is an integral part of living a balanced and fulfilling life. Anshin Ritsumei encourages us to prioritize our well-being and make time for activities that nourish our mind, body, and spirit. Whether it's taking a relaxing bath, practicing yoga, or indulging in a hobby we love, self-care rituals help us connect with our inner selves and cultivate a sense of tranquility.

Spreading Love and Compassion

Anshin Ritsumei is not just about finding inner peace for ourselves; it also extends to creating harmony in our relationships and the world around us. By practicing love and compassion towards ourselves and others, we contribute to a more peaceful and interconnected existence. Acts of kindness, empathy, and forgiveness align us with the essence of Anshin Ritsumei.

Conclusion

Anshin Ritsumei offers us a pathway to a more peaceful and fulfilling life. By incorporating the principles of Reiki into our daily routines and relationship with others, we can cultivate inner peace, live in the present moment, let go of attachments, nurture self-care, and spread love and compassion. Embracing Anshin Ritsumei as a way of life allows us to experience the transformative power of Reiki beyond the treatment room.