Reiki master Tanmaya Honervogt is an author, healer, and seminar leader who divides her time between Germany and England. Reiki is a method of healing that has its roots in ancient Tibetan practices that were used to harmonize and heal the body, mind, and soul. A Japanese monk Dr. Mikao Usui discovered the principles of this system while he was trying to understand the healing miracles of Jesus.

According to Honervogt, anyone can learn Reiki and it can be used "to replenish your vital energy, to strengthen the immune system, and to ward off disease." In this handy and user-friendly paperback, Honervogt presents ways to treat yourself using Reiki techniques that are related to the body's endoctrine system and to the seven charkas, or energy centers, identified by the Eastern esoteric sciences.

Here are a few of the many helpful tips and practices in this paperback:

Reconnecting with the Present
"Sit in a chair or lie down comfortably. Relax your breathing and place your hands over your eyes, resting your palms on your cheekbones. This position balances the pituitary and pineal glands, which regulate hormones in the body and affect your emotional well-being."

For Peace of Mind
"Place your hands over the kidney area at the back of the waist, fingers relaxed and pointing toward the spine. This position strengthens the kidneys, adrenal glands, and the nerves, as well as relieving stress. It also reinforces self-esteem and confidence."

Shoulder Soother
"If you sit down all day long at work, you will probably be all too familiar with the shoulder tensions, neck and back pain that often accompany sedentary-type working patterns. Ease that tension by placing your hands on the upper shoulders at either side of the spine and resting them there for about 3 minutes, allowing the Reiki energy to flow into the places where it is most needed. This also helps release any emotions you might be holding there, and promotes relaxation."