The Five Principles of Reiki, known in Japanese as the Gokai, were established by Mikao Usui with the hope that his students would practise them in their daily lives and maintain inner peace and harmony. They form a foundation in the Usui Reiki tradition alongside hand-position practice and attunement.
Just for Today
- Do not be angry
- Do not be worried
- Be grateful
- Do your duties honestly
- Be kind to others
The phrase “Just for Today” is essential. They are not lifelong vows; they are framed as daily practice, renewed each morning and reflected on each evening.
How the Gokai is used in practice
Mikao Usui encouraged his students to recite and meditate on the Five Reiki Principles every morning and evening. He also firmly believed that this would strengthen our inner awareness and bring balance to the inner self