#19 – REIKI MASTER

The Adventure – Becoming a Reiki Master

Reiki is a Japanese technique for healing, relaxation, and stress reduction. It is done by a ‘laying on of hands’ technique based on the premise that an unseen energy flows through the practitioner and is transferred to the client. It involves the transfer of ‘universal energy’ (rei = universal, ki – energy) through the palms of the practitioner’s hands.

There are three main levels of reiki:

The First Degree teaches the history, basic theories of the energy system, ethics, the five reiki precepts, and procedures – which include hand placement positions on the human body. The students are given attunements by the Reiki Master. The emphasis is on self-healing and helping others.

The Second Degree teaches the symbols used during a reiki session to enhance the strength and type of reiki, with the symbols temporarily connecting the reiki practitioner and client. In addition, distance healing is practiced, meaning that the practitioner can work on a client without being in their physical presence.

The Third Degree, or Reiki Master training, is divided into two categories – 1) Reiki Master Practitioner and 2) Reiki Master Teacher. Both learn the Master Symbol, but only the Reiki Master Teacher can attune and teach others reiki. The focus is on meditation techniques, receiving the master symbol, the Violet Breath, auric cleaning, the Hui Yin, and the benefits of living a spirit-based life.

Interesting Factoids about Reiki

Was created in 1922 by Mikao Usui, a Japanese Buddhist while on a 21 day Buddhist training course held on Mount Kurama.
Contains five precepts, or principles: For today…do not be angry, do not worry, be grateful, work with diligence, and be kind to people.
Is considered to be a pseudo-science or type of fringe therapy.
Is an energy healing modality also called hands-on healing.
Was studied as an alternative therapy at Stanford University.
Is practiced in conjunction with modern medicine at the Seton Medical Center.
Is widely accepted in ‘Eastern’ medicine.

So what are the beneficial claims of Reiki?

Increased ability to manage stress – more relaxed, less tension, more balance.
Promotes increased energy, increased vitality.
Speedy healing process – decrease pain and increase recovery from surgery, injury, and other chronic/acute ailments.
Promote better sleep patterns.
Is used as a support system during times of depression, chronic illness, and bereavement.
Is reported to increase creativity.
Releases blocked energies.
Increased levels of intuition, enlightenment, and awareness.

So why should you consider learning Reiki?

You can perform reiki on yourself, your family, your pets, a plant – anything under your stewardship. It promotes a healthier lifestyle and is complementary with any other healing modalities – Eastern or Western.