One of the most important aspects of Reiki training is understanding where your teachings come from. A clear lineage is not just a list of names – it’s a living link to the origins of Reiki itself and a testament to the depth, integrity, and authenticity of the practice you are learning.
In my journey with Reiki, I have been blessed to train under Shaun McKeown, a dedicated practitioner and teacher of authentic Japanese Jikiden Reiki®, whose guidance has profoundly shaped my practice and understanding.
Why Lineage Matters in Reiki
Reiki, in its original form, was developed in Japan by Mikao Usui in the early 20th century. Through successive generations of teachers, these teachings have been passed down from heart to heart, preserving not only technique, but also intention, understanding, and respect for the original Usui system.
In Jikiden Reiki, lineage is presented as a direct, vertical line from teacher to student, connecting back to Usui Sensei without dilution or unnecessary additions. This approach emphasises purity and continuity of the original Japanese teachings – exactly as they were intended to be taught.
My Lineage in the Usui Tradition
My Reiki lineage, through my teacher Shaun McKeown, is rooted in authentic Japanese Reiki as taught by the founders and stewards of the system:
- Mikao Usui – Founder of the Usui Reiki system
- Chujiro Hayashi – One of Usui’s primary students
- Chiyoko Yamaguchi – Esteemed Reiki teacher in Japan
- Tadao Yamaguchi – Representative (President) of the Jikiden Reiki Institute in Japan
- Shaun McKeown (Shihan) – My Reiki teacher and guide in practice and understanding
This lineage reflects a straight teaching line, without branching or blending into other Reiki systems, ensuring a deep connection to traditional teachings as handed down through generations.
About My Teacher – Shaun McKeown
I am honoured to have studied Jikiden Reiki under Shaun McKeown, a highly experienced Reiki practitioner and teacher based near Birmingham. Shaun has over 15 years of dedicated Reiki experience and has spent many years training with senior teachers in Japan, eventually gaining the level of Shihan (full teacher) from the Jikiden Reiki Institute in Japan.
Shaun’s professional journey is unique. Before committing to Reiki full-time, he worked in health, fitness, coaching, and even served as a physical training instructor in the army – all of which inform his grounded, practical, and compassionate approach to Reiki teaching.
After exploring several Western and modified Reiki methods, Shaun felt drawn to the original Japanese teachings and found in Jikiden Reiki a depth and clarity that truly resonated with his understanding. This inspiration led him to dedicate his teaching exclusively to Jikiden Reiki, helping students learn Reiki as it was originally intended.
In addition to teaching, Shaun actively supports the Reiki community in the UK as a committee member of the Jikiden Reiki UK Association (JRUKA), promoting authentic teachings and supporting teachers and students alike.
What This Lineage Means to Me
Training in an authentic lineage has deepened both my practice and my connection to Reiki. It has helped me:
- Understand Reiki from its original source
- Appreciate the tradition and integrity behind the practice
- Honour the teachings in their pure form
- Integrate Reiki into my life and work with confidence and clarity
Having a clear and well-honoured lineage is not about prestige – it’s about authenticity, respect, and continuity of true Reiki teachings. It is a reminder that Reiki is more than a technique; it’s a legacy of healing passed down through generations with care and intention.
If you’d like to know more about my Reiki training, my experiences with Jikiden Reiki, or how Reiki can support your journey, feel free to reach out – I’d love to share more with you.
