I can't believe I'm almost 5 years into my business and somehow do not have a single blog article written solely on Reiki! So here it is, let's explore what Reiki is, how it works, the benefits it offers, what a session is like, how you can learn it yourself, and how to find a Practitioner.
What is Reiki?
With its origins in Japan, Reiki is based on the belief that there is a life force energy that flows through all living things, and when this energy is blocked or low, it can lead to physical, emotional, or spiritual imbalances.
Reiki is a form of energy healing that involves the use of the practitioner's hands to channel the universal life force energy into the recipient's body.
The word Reiki comes from two Japanese words: Rei, which means "universal," and Ki, which means "life force energy." So, Reiki is the universal life force energy that is channeled through the practitioner to the recipient.
How does Reiki work?
Reiki is based on the idea that everything is made up of energy, including our bodies. When we experience stress, illness, or emotional trauma, our energy can become blocked or depleted, leading to imbalances in our physical, emotional, or spiritual wellbeing. The Reiki practitioner channels the universal life force energy into the recipient's body, helping to unblock and balance their energy centers or chakras.
This process can promote healing, reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance overall wellbeing.
What are the benefits of Reiki?
Reiki offers a range of benefits, including:
Promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety
Supporting the body's natural healing process
Improving sleep quality and reducing insomnia
Easing pain and discomfort
Enhancing mental clarity and focus
Boosting the immune system
Reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety
Increasing feelings of wellbeing and inner peace
What is a Reiki session like?
A Reiki session typically lasts 60-90 minutes and can be performed in person or remotely. During an in-person session, the recipient lies down on a massage table, fully clothed, while the practitioner places their hands on or near the recipient's body.
A virtual or remote session (energy is not bound by space and time) will depend on the practitioner, but my clients and I meet on Zoom and I guide them during the experience just as if they were in person.
The practitioner will move their hands over different areas of the body, depending on where the recipient needs healing. The recipient may feel a warm, tingling sensation or simply deep relaxation during the session.
After the session, the recipient may feel lighter, more relaxed, and more balanced. I always tell my clients that the magic of Reiki happens after Reiki, meaning once we've cleared your blocks you'll see things start to shift in your life.
How can you learn Reiki?
What I love most about this tool is that literally anyone can learn it, and in my opinion, everyone should! Luckily, there are now many training programs available.
The traditional Usui Reiki system has three levels, and each level involves a series of attunements, which allow the practitioner to access and channel the universal life force energy. I practice a type of Reiki called Holy Fire, which the attunement process is a little different, allowing us to do trainings remotely.
Each of the three levels of Reiki builds upon the previous level and provides a deeper understanding of the practice:
Reiki Level 1: This is the introductory level, also known as the "First Degree" of Reiki. In this level, students are taught the basics of Reiki, including the history and principles of the practice, how to channel Reiki energy, and how to use it for self-healing and for healing others. At this level, students are given energy initiations (attunements or placements) that help to open up their channels for receiving and transmitting Reiki energy.
Reiki Level 2: This is also known as the "Second Degree" of Reiki. In this level, students learn advanced techniques for using Reiki energy, including how to send distant healing, how to use Reiki symbols, and how to work with specific mental and emotional issues. Students receive additional attunements in this level, which help to strengthen their connection to Reiki energy.
Reiki Master Level: This is the highest level of Reiki training, also known as the "Third Degree" or "Master Level." At this level, students learn more advanced techniques, including how to guide people through journeys, how to give Reiki to groups, and how to teach Reiki to others. They also learn advanced healing techniques and receive a final attunement, which helps to further deepen their connection to Reiki energy.
Overall, each level of Reiki training provides a deeper understanding and connection to Reiki energy, allowing practitioners to use it more effectively for healing themselves and others.
I've been teaching Reiki since 2019 when I did my Master Teacher Training with William Lee Rand, the founder of the International Center for Reiki Training. While traditional trainings happen in a 6-8 hour day per level and end there (3 days total for Master Level) my trainings are multidimensional:
Lifetime access to a learning portal with self-paced modules, handouts, and guided meditations. I created this so that my students always have the material to reference.
If 1:1, a 3-hour practical training session in-person in my Coventry, RI office, or virtually on Zoom.
If group, a 4-6 hour group practical training session in-person in my Coventry, RI office, or virtually on Zoom.
Continued support to answer questions and share experiences via Voxer.
Finding a Reiki Practitioner or Reiki Master Teacher
Finding the right Reiki Master is an important step on your journey to receiving Reiki treatments or becoming a Reiki practitioner. Here are some tips to help you find a Reiki Master that is right for you:
Ask for referrals: Ask friends, family, or colleagues if they know a Reiki Master they would recommend. You can also search online for Reiki practitioners in your area and read reviews from their previous clients.
Research their credentials: Look for a Reiki Master who has completed a certified training program and is a member of a reputable Reiki organization. Check their credentials and make sure they have the necessary certifications to teach or practice Reiki. For example, I am a member of the International Center for Reiki Training, and have been working in health and wellness since 2007.
Trust your intuition: When choosing a Reiki Master, it is important to trust your intuition. You want to work with someone who makes you feel comfortable and safe, and who resonates with your energy. If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and continue your search.
Consider their experience: Look for a Reiki Master who has experience in the areas you are interested in. For example, if you are interested in Reiki for fertility or chronic pain, look for a practitioner who has experience in those areas.
Check their availability and location: Make sure the Reiki Master you choose is available to teach or treat you when you need it. Consider their location and whether it is convenient for you to travel to their practice.
In conclusion, Reiki is a safe and effective tool for a wide range of issues, and is best practiced regularly, which is why learning it for yourself is such a valuable investment! Please feel free to reach out with any questions or comments by contacting me here.
