Holy Fire Reiki is a form of Reiki that builds on traditional Usui Reiki. It was introduced by the International Center for Reiki Training (ICRT) in 2014. Both are given in the same gentle way, with the hands resting lightly on or just above the body. The main difference is how the energy feels and works: many people describe Holy Fire Reiki as gentle yet deeper, and it is understood to guide itself to where it is needed.
If you have started exploring Reiki, you have probably seen both names and wondered whether they are the same thing. Here is a simple guide to how they compare, so you can choose what feels right for you.
Usui Reiki is the original form of Reiki, developed in Japan by Mikao Usui in the early 20th century. It is a gentle practice in which the practitioner channels life force energy to support relaxation and balance.
During a session you rest fully clothed while the practitioner places their hands lightly on or just above your body. Many people experience Usui Reiki as calming, quieting and deeply relaxing.
Holy Fire Reiki is a newer development of Usui Reiki taught by the ICRT. It keeps the same foundation and the same way of giving a session, but the energy is often described as more refined, with a strong sense of peace and release.
The session looks the same, and both are gentle and safe to receive. The differences lie in the lineage and in how the energy is usually experienced.
| Usui Reiki | Holy Fire Reiki | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Developed in Japan by Mikao Usui | Builds on Usui Reiki, introduced by the ICRT in 2014 |
| How it often feels | Calming and balancing | Gentle yet deeper, often described as purifying |
| Role of the practitioner | Channels the energy | Channels the energy, which is understood to guide itself |
| Session style | Hands-on or hands-off, in person or at a distance | Hands-on or hands-off, in person or at a distance |
No. Holy Fire Reiki is not connected to any religion, and you do not need any particular belief or faith to receive a session. “Holy Fire” is simply the name the ICRT gave to this form of Reiki. People of every background are welcome.
Most people simply feel deeply relaxed. Some notice warmth, tingling or gentle waves of calm, some see colours or images, and some fall asleep. Others feel very little during the session and notice a shift in the hours or days afterwards. All of these experiences are normal.
There is no right or wrong choice. Some people are drawn to the tradition of Usui Reiki, while others feel called to the experience of Holy Fire Reiki. The best way to know is to try a session and notice how your body and mind respond.
Yes. I am a certified Usui/Holy Fire® III Reiki practitioner and offer in-person Reiki in Winnipeg at Safe Harbour Therapy Centre, as well as distance Reiki sessions you can receive from home, 7 days a week. After every session I send a free written summary of what I sensed and suggested next steps.
If you have questions first, book a free 15-minute consultation. There is no pressure, just support.
