The History of Reiki

Dr. Usui was the founder of Reiki. He initiated Dr. Hayashi who, after Dr. Usui’s death became the Grand Master of Reiki. Dr. Hayashi initiated Mrs Hawayo Takata. It was Mrs. Takata who brought Reiki to North America.

Mrs. Takata taught Reiki in North America for 35 years. I did not meet her. She visited Yasodhara Ashram in 1980, soon after I had left. Mrs. Takata was Phyllis Furumoto’s grandmother. She initiated Phyllis in both First and Second Degree Reiki and as a Reiki Master.

After Mrs. Takata died there was a meeting in Lumby, B.C. of 22 Reiki Masters she had initiated. It was decided then that Phyllis would be the Grand Master of Reiki.

Over the years I have heard many stories about Mrs. Takata from the late Bethel Phaigh and Wanja Twan. They were both initiated as Reiki Masters by Mrs. Takata.

Mrs. Takata’s story is a fascinating one. She lived in Hawaii and went to Japan and studied with Dr. Hayashi who initiated her, as I have said. There is so much more than I can write here.

It was Mrs. Takata’s wish that Reiki would be known throughout the World. Her wish has indeed been fulfilled. And the story goes on.