What is Reiki?

Reiki is healing method that relies on channeling life force energy, or Chi through the hands. According to Reiki theory, we have energy centers located throughout our bodies that facilitate the flow of Chi. The underlying belief is that a healthy physical body correlates strongly with balanced & smooth flowing Chi through our energy centers. Conversely, Chi energy that is blocked by poorly functioning energy centers may result in disease. When a Reiki practitioner lays her hands on a client, she becomes a vessel for this life force energy to flow from the universe through her body. This Chi energy is then channeled through her hands and into the other person to clear the obstructions that are predisposing the disease.


How do I practice Reiki?

In order to be a Reiki practitioner, one must be attuned by a Reiki Master. An attunement ceremoniously clears one’s energy centers in order to maximize the capacity for channeling Chi. Attunements are transmitted by a system of symbols, rituals and hand placements meant to prepare the recipient’s energetic body to handle the powerfully healing Chi energy. Each attunement elevates a healer to different degree statuses. There are typically three degrees of Reiki, the third of which attunes a healer to be a Reiki Master herself.

The following is an overview of the Reiki degrees and what you can expect to achieve from each attunement.

First Degree: Reiki I
o Learn hand placement
o Self healing
o Healing others
o Distance healing

Second Degree: Reiki II
o Memorize initial Reiki symbols
o Learn hand movements
o Manifesting

Third Degree: Reiki III
o Memorize additional Reiki symbols
o Prepare to pass attunements
o Soul healing methods
o Becoming a Reiki master


What form of Reiki should I practice?

There are currently many varieties of Reiki that are being taught today. What school of thought you choose to follow is entirely up to you.

The most traditional form of Reiki is derived directly from the late 19th century Japanese healer, Mikao Usui. Referred to as Usui Reiki Ryoho, this form of Reiki has been passed on from master to student since its conception and is considered to be the original Reiki system.

Non-traditional forms of Reiki tend to integrate ideas from various spiritual practices while maintaining the basic Usui Reiki principles. These variations may integrate concepts from eastern philosophy, alternative medicine, new age spirituality and even Christian ideology.

The type of Reiki you practice may be determined by asking yourself: What are your spiritual inclinations? Do you prefer a firmly structured system or are you more free-spirited in your approach to healing? Also, how much money are you willing and able to spend? It is fine to shop around and ask questions to potential teachers.

Reiki can be a beautiful enhancement to your personal repertoire of self healing techniques. You can practice Reiki to calm your body, relieve emotional stress and nurture your spirit. It provides a wonderful complement to meditation, yoga and prayerful practices. Above all, Reiki opens your heart and soul to the possibility of miracles and to the positive expectation that we can heal our selves.