This book is beautifully designed and unlike any other book about Reiki. The freeform prose of Linda Rosenthal, coupled with Michele Preste's photographs of actual Reiki sessions evoke the feelings one might experience when they receive Reiki. As a meditative experience, this book takes the reader on an intimate journey of the Self. "The Essence of Healing" is a wonderful gift for anyone, whether they are new to Reiki or they have experienced Reiki many times.