What Is Reiki?

Three definitions of Reiki:

1. A healing modality using the hands as conduits to transmit chi (or ki) energy from sender to receiver.
2. A consciously manifested expression of the innate human instinct to heal with touch.
3. A study and practice of sensing subtle energies in and around living beings.

While the basic techniques of Reiki are considered ancient in origin, modern Reiki begins with a rediscovery by a Japanese monk and scholar named Mikao Usui in the mid-19th century (see the post: "A History of Usui Reiki"). Some sources trace the word Reiki to the Japanese words: raku and ki. Raku = vertical energy flow. Ki = horizontal energy flow. It is believed that Raku Ki was originally practiced by ancient Tibetan lamas as a form of meditation. The lamas would meditate on a series of symbols of calligraphs etched on bronze or brass plates. It was thought that this kind of meditation brought about physical and mental cleasing. These symbols, or surviving versions of them, are used today in some aspects of Reiki practice. The idea of an all-pervasive, universal "life force" energy is not unique to Reiki. In fact, nearly every culture has had it's own correlative version. A few examples:

• Polynesian = Mana
• Korean = Gi
• Egyptian = Ka
• Iroquis = Orenda
• Hindi = Prana
• Hebrew = Ruach
• Islam = Barraka
• Chinese = Chi/Qi

Reiki is a unique practice. But working with Ki or Chi is not unique to Reiki. Tai Chi, acupuncture, kundalini yoga, and qi gong are just a few examples of other methods that involve sensing and working with bioenergies. Reiki, therefore, makes no special claims to the concept of Ki or Chi. It's simply one system of using energy for the purpose of healing. In Japan, the word "Reiki" does not necessarily designate a specific healing modality as it tends to here in the west. Rather, it's used in conjunction with many energetic healing applications.

Reiki healers are those who have decided to become a conduit of healing Reiki energy. They wish to learn more about healing, subtle energies, and expanded awareness. To become a Reiki healer, one must receive attunements from a Reiki Master. An attunement is a clearing, opening, and aligning of body energy channels (chakras) making the healer a conduit for Reiki energy.

Working with Reiki requires your mindfulness, sensitivity, and discipline. Like learning a new language or to play a musical instrument, it takes practice to use Reiki effectively. While some people like to think of Reiki as a “special power” you should always understand that this power is not coming from you, but through you. As individuals, we are not the source of Reiki, but are channels for it.

While Reiki can be taught in a short amount of time, learning to use Reiki is an on-going process you may be engaged in for the rest of your life. Traditionally, Reiki is intended to be “passed down” only to those with a sincere commitment to use Reiki, and expand and refine their understanding of it.

If you're interested in learning Reiki, here are some things to consider.

Reiki is traditionally divided and taught in three separate classes or levels.

Reiki I

Reiki I students are taught the history of Reiki, given instruction regarding Reiki healings, and are attuned by a Reiki Master. There are usually three attunements in Reiki I. The Reiki I attunements are all that is necessary to create a Reiki healer. But without proper instruction, attunements are generally worthless.

Reiki II

Reiki level I healers can proceed to Reiki II. This class includes the teaching of the first 3 Reiki symbols which increase the effectiveness and potency of the energy for the healer. Theories and techniques of distance healing and energetic clearing are covered, as are polarity techniques.

Reiki III

Reiki II healers can elect to become "Reiki Masters" which increases their Reiki energy-channeling abilities, as well as entitling them to teach and pass attunements to new students. Much emphasis is placed on learning how to effectively pass and use attunements in a healing and teaching context, and Reiki III practitioners are expected to display a thorough understanding of all traditional techniques and concepts. The Master symbol is also taught.

Note that you'll find class structures and curriculum differing from teacher to teacher. The information above represents my own personal methods of teaching, but not the only such method. Some systems divide the traditional three-levels into several other levels or degrees, while others use a combined intensive attunement for all degrees at once. The three level system shown above is closest to the original Reiki system, and still the most commonly used today.

If you have any questions about Reiki, or would like more information about classes and certificatio, feel free to email me at crow2354@gmail.com