Reiki Lineages: What They Are and How the Method Is Transmitted

Reiki lineages represent the continuity of a teaching that spans generations, directly connecting each practitioner to the origin of the method created by Mikao Usui.

This content complements: Reiki Lineages: What They Are and How the Method Is Transmitted

In simple terms, a lineage can be understood as a “family tree” of Reiki. It records the sequence of masters — from the earliest to the most recent — showing how knowledge and initiations have been passed down over time.

Each name within a lineage represents a living link in this transmission. It is not merely a list, but a record of continuity, including teachings, practices, and experiences that accompany this path.

Considering what is taught during a student’s training, when fidelity to the original teachings is maintained, it is referred to as Traditional Usui Reiki – Usui Reiki Ryoho (“The secret art of inviting happiness”). In this context, the focus is on spiritual and physical healing, without emphasizing the practitioner’s ego.

When new content or practices are introduced, branches of lineages emerge, such as Osho Reiki, Kahuna Reiki, Japanese Traditional Reiki, Shamanic Reiki, Jikiden Reiki, Gendai Reiki, among others.

The influence of masters within these branches does not change the energy being worked with, nor does it make one lineage better than another. Reiki, as universal energy, remains the same — what changes are the paths and forms of application.

👉 Continue reading: The Importance of Lineage in Reiki and Fidelity to the Method

✨ About the Author

Lucia Eda Simada is a Reiki Master – Traditional Mikao Usui System, based in Americana (SP, Brazil). A physiotherapist with over 40 years of experience, she integrates knowledge from physical rehabilitation, integrative practices, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, developing work grounded in experience, practice, and a broader understanding of care.