I was talking to a friend the other day about what Reiki really ‘is’. I pulled up a series of Reiki books and manuals recommended by a group of energy healers I’m a part of. But then I remembered Reiki Fire by Frank Arjava Petter.

Perhaps I read this book after we made the list… but it is such a succinct description of the healing, the method, the history and the energy involved that it has to be on the list. I recommend it to anyone just starting out with energy work and to those who have mastered the skill, but still appreciate the richness of a different perspective.

Here’s what Walter Lubeck, Reiki master and author, says about the book:

“The origin of Reiki has come to be surrounded by many stories and myths. Frank Arjava Petter, a free Reiki master practicing in Japan, immerses it in a new light as he traces Usui-san’s path back through time with openness and devotion. He meets Usui’s descendants and climbs the holy mountain of his enlightenment.

In addition, Reiki Fire is an excellent Reiki textbook, fresh ad rousing in its spiritual perspective. Reiki, shaped by Shintoism, is a Buddhist expression of Qigong, whereby Qigong depicts the teaching of life energy in its original sense. Frank Arjava Petter is a master in his approach to it.

Reiki Fire is also an absolutely practical Reiki guide. The heart, the body, the mind, and the esoteric background, it is all here.

Frank Arjava Petter knows how to write in an absorbing, sensitive, and exciting way. On every page you will find his devotion to Reiki and his great experience on the spiritual path… one of the best books dealing with this subject.”