Reiki: an ancient touch therapy Author: Sell SVL Conference/Journal: RN Date published: 1996 Other: Volume ID: 59 , Issue ID: 2 , Pages: 57 , Word Count: 72 Reiki therapy was introduced and made popular in the US by Timothy A. McNamara of the Usui Center for Natural Healing in Denver, CO. It has been applied to patients with AIDS, lupus erythematosus, chronic pain and other ailments. A trained practitioner transfers universal life energy to the patient by laying his hand over a specific area of the body. Therapists believe this energy gives strength, harmony and balance in healing patients.