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.”

Michael Merschat is a member of our ming + ming community, and an amazing architect and designer who keeps the needs of Earth in mind in all of his designs. He’s helping to rebuild the Asheville NC area after the destruction of Hurricane Helene, and offers design consulting for those who live in other states. If you love to build green and need some sage wisdom and expertise, Michael is the architect to call.

Here’s a little bit more about Open Corner Architecture:

ABOUT US

We are visionaries.

Our designs weave together the story of your land, your home, and your heart.

Our work is thoughtful, intentional, and built to last.

Our purpose is to leave this world a better place than we received it.

Michael Merschat, AIA, Principal ArchitecT

Michael grew up on a farm in the Blue Ridge Mountains outside Asheville, NC. After graduating from the University of Tennessee College of Architecture and Design, he moved up to Washington, DC, to pursue his career in architecture.

After two decades of city life, Michael returned home and found renewed connection with the land and rural community of his youth.

He believes that we have an opportunity to bring thoughtful design principles into every home, effortlessly blending the natural flow of the land with modern architecture.

He currently serves as the Education Director for the Executive Committee of the Asheville Chapter of the AIA and as Chairperson the Capitol Area CRAN (Custom Residential Architects Network).

Waylon + Lucy, Design Dogs

Waylon and Lucy are sweet Lab-Pit mixes and they love taking walks, sleeping in the office, and snoring through architecture design charrettes.

This brother and sister duo remind us everyday that no matter how busy we are, it's always a great time to take a break, get outside, and breathe in the miracle of another beautiful day.