A Ripple Effect During Lockdown

How Daily Gokai Recitation Created Global Connection in a Time of Isolation

By Yasuko Tedaka (Sue) — with permission from the IJRA Newsletter (June 30, 2020)

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When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the world in 2020, life changed dramatically for many. Lockdowns, uncertainty, and isolation became the new normal. But in the midst of that stillness and disruption, something beautiful began to grow: a shared daily practice of reciting the Gokai, connecting people across countries, time zones, and cultures through the simple yet profound heart of Jikiden Reiki.

A Simple Beginning with Deep Intention

In early April 2020, the province of British Columbia, where I live, declared a state of emergency. My Reiki room had to close. Like many of you, I was concerned—not just about my own practice, but about my clients, my students, and how we would stay connected in the months to come.

I knew distant Reiki would be an important tool, and I reached out to my students to encourage their practice. But something else kept calling to me: Gokai.

Gokai—“the secret technique of inviting happiness” and “the spiritual medicine for all disease”—is the essence of Reiki.

 I thought: Maybe reciting Gokai together could ease anxiety and help people feel less alone.

Still, it took me two weeks to find the courage. I wondered if I could really do this twice a day, every day. What if no one showed up?

But on April 2nd, I began. That day, three people joined. We put our hands together in Gassho and recited the Gokai aloud. That was it.

And that was enough.

Just Gokai. Only Kotodama.

There is a quiet power in the simplicity of Gokai. Just five lines, spoken with sincerity. And when recited together—even over Zoom—they become something more: Kotodama, the spirit of the words.

What began as a small circle slowly grew. More people joined, from across Canada, the United States, Italy, England, and even Japan. Shihan and Shihan-kaku who had attended the North American Jikiden Reiki Congress the year before began showing up too.

I was deeply moved. It takes humility and dedication to continue learning and connecting with the roots of Reiki—especially for teachers. And they did just that.

Sharing More Than Words

Each session begins with a few minutes dedicated to sharing a piece of Japanese culture, history, or language. From karate and harakiri, to Buddhism and Shintō, we explore the roots of Reiki, “Japan”

This small gesture brings our hearts closer to Japan—the birthplace of Reiki—and reminds us of the deep cultural threads woven through our practice.

Over time, this community of daily participants grew into a warm, supportive global family. Their commitment continues to inspire me. They show up, every day, on time. It’s not easy, but it’s meaningful.

The Ripple Effect: Participant Reflections

Here are just a few voices from our global circle:

“Reciting Gokai during lockdown was the best thing that happened to me. It's so beautiful.” – Canada

“The Gokai is like a magical glue for the Jikiden Reiki community.” – USA

“It was only about 10 minutes, but it would have been impossible to meet everyone without this group.” – Japan

“Thank you for the cultural lessons—from ‘Karate Kid’ to ‘Shintō’—my understanding has grown.” – Italy

“This practice has become my strength during this time.” – USA

“It’s amazing that someone outside of Japan would take such care to preserve and share its spirit.” – Japan

These words touched me deeply and reminded me that something as humble as reciting Gokai can create powerful hado—waves of intention and healing that ripple outward into the world.

A Circle Without Borders

What started as an uncertain idea became a daily ritual, a global circle, and a deeply meaningful expression of Jikiden Reiki in action.

Even now, I continue this practice, not as a leader, but as one participant among many. We come together with open hearts, speak the Gokai, and return to our lives feeling just a little more connected, more centered, and more at peace.

I am so grateful to all who joined—past and present. This was never something I did alone. It was something we created together.

With gratitude,
Yasuko Tedaka (Sue)