Fast facts
Traditional. Japan. 1922.
Modern. West. Developed later.
Usui: 4. Angelic: different.
Usui: universal. Angelic: angelic.
Different systems, both effective.
Two Different Systems
Usui Reiki vs Angelic Reiki
Usui Reiki and Angelic Reiki are different systems. Usui Reiki is traditional. Angelic Reiki is modern.
Usui Reiki comes from Japan. Angelic Reiki was developed in the West.
They have different origins, techniques, and symbols. Both can be effective.
Key Differences
How the two systems compare.
- Origins: Usui Reiki was developed by Mikao Usui in Japan in 1922. Angelic Reiki was developed in the West in the late 20th century.
- Energy: Usui Reiki works with universal life energy (ki). Angelic Reiki works with angelic frequencies and energies.
- Symbols: Usui Reiki uses four main symbols. Angelic Reiki uses different symbols, often involving angels and archangels.
- Attunements: Usui Reiki uses traditional attunements. Angelic Reiki uses different attunement methods.
- Philosophy: Usui Reiki is more traditional. Angelic Reiki is more focused on angelic guidance and spiritual connection.
Usui Reiki vs Angelic Reiki
A comparison of the two systems.

Usui Reiki
Traditional. Japan. 1922. Universal life energy. 4 symbols.
Angelic Reiki
Modern. West. Late 20th century. Angelic frequencies. Different symbols.
Both
Effective healing systems. Different approaches. Choose what resonates.
The Traditional System
Usui Reiki
Usui Reiki is the traditional Reiki developed by Mikao Usui in Japan in 1922.
It works with universal life energy (ki). It uses four main symbols.
Usui Reiki is the foundation of most Reiki traditions.
The Modern System
Angelic Reiki
Angelic Reiki is a modern system developed in the West. It incorporates angelic energies.
It works with angelic frequencies. It uses different symbols and attunements.
Angelic Reiki focuses on working with angels and archangels.
What Practitioners Say
I practice Usui Reiki. It is traditional. It works. I respect Angelic Reiki. It is different. Both systems can heal.
Usui Reiki and Angelic Reiki are different systems. Both can be effective. Choose the one that resonates with you.
Do not get caught up in debates about which is 'better.' Both systems can heal. The practice is more important than the label.
Key takeaways
- Usui Reiki is traditional Japanese Reiki from 1922.
- Angelic Reiki is a modern Western system that incorporates angelic energies.
- Usui Reiki uses four main symbols. Angelic Reiki uses different symbols.
- Usui Reiki works with universal life energy. Angelic Reiki works with angelic frequencies.
- Both systems can be effective.
- Choose the system that resonates with you.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Usui Reiki and Angelic Reiki?
Usui Reiki is traditional Japanese Reiki. Angelic Reiki is a modern system that incorporates angelic energies.
Is Angelic Reiki real Reiki?
Yes. It is a different system of energy healing. It is not traditional Usui Reiki, but it is a valid practice.
Which is better, Usui Reiki or Angelic Reiki?
Neither is better. They are different. Choose the system that resonates with you.
Can I practice both Usui Reiki and Angelic Reiki?
Yes. Many practitioners learn multiple systems. They complement each other.
Does Angelic Reiki use the same symbols as Usui Reiki?
No. Angelic Reiki uses different symbols, often involving angels and archangels.
Sources
- Frank Arjava Petter, Reiki Fire, 1997.
- Bronwen and Frans Stiene, The Reiki Sourcebook, 2003.
- Angelic Reiki teaching materials.





