The system of Reiki began in the early 1900s. Since the death of its founder Mikao Usui, a number of different branches of the system have developed in Japan.
Since 1980, a great variety of Reiki branches and teachings inspired by the system of Reiki have also been created outside of Japan. This has led to many individual teachings which may or may not relate to what was once taught by Mikao Usui.
Over the last 30 years the system of Reiki has become one of the most popular forms of energy healing. Its structure of three levels with its interesting mix of self-help and mysticism has been replicated many times over with slight variations. This has meant the word ‘Reiki’ has been adopted for use in systems and practices unrelated to the system of Reiki.