"Re" means "Universal" and is a general term for spirit or unseen spiritual quality, which serve as channel for "Ki" or "Life Force Energy" (Some call it Chi, Qi, Prana, Love Energy, etc.).  Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing.  It is administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive."