Reiki
Reiki (ray-key) is a Japanese word most easily understood in English as “Universal Life Energy”. Here we use it to refer to a natural form of hands-on energy transfer of the Universal Life Energy. Reiki is a natural healing art which uses the laying on of hands to support healing. It works to bring balance to the body, mind, and spirit.
It is a non-invasive technique, used worldwide, usually done on a massage table with the client fully clothed. Because Reiki is a holistic approach, it works to balance the entire system, rather than just focusing on certain symptoms. As practitioners we are taught that Reiki has its own wisdom and that the energy goes to any area where the client has a need. The healing energy seeks to remove any blocks and to re-energize the system so the body/mind/spirit is better able to work together and maintain optimal health and well-being.
In recent years the term Reiki has been used to describe many different forms of energy healing, which has created some confusion. While there are many valid forms of energy work, Reiki, as it is taught traditionally, is very specific in its application and teaching. To be a Reiki healer in the Usui tradition, training and initiation with a Reiki Master/Teacher is necessary.
Some distinguishing characteristics of traditional Reiki healing are:
- There is no use of charms, crystals, etc. While these can be valid tools in healing, they are not a part of Reiki
- Reiki is about allowing the energy to move through the practitioner, rather than the practitioner directing or seeking to control the energy.
- The Reiki practitioner will be energized, rather than tired upon completion of a Reiki treatment. If the person is tired, they are efforting the process, and that is not the way of Reiki.
- There is no need to disrobe when receiving a Reiki treatment, unless it is included as a part of a massage with a licensed massage practitioner.
- There is no chanting, sound effects, use of mantras, or waving of hands included as a part of a Reiki treatment. A practitioner may subtly use symbols, but only the four traditionally taught.
- There are no special respiratory or breathing techniques used.
- The use of spirit guides, angels or other supernatural beings is not a part of Reiki teaching, although some practitioners may experience their presence when doing treatments or teaching.
- While there are the 5 Precepts taught in traditional Reiki, it is not a religious practice. People of all faiths can comfortably incorporate the teachings into their lives and spiritual practice.
There have been some heated discussions in the alternative healing community about what is and is not Reiki. I don't profess to know the "right" answer to the question. I have chosen to remain very traditional in my approach. That is not to say that other forms of energy healing are not valid or not as good. I believe there are many wonderful healing practices. I have studied some of them, and occasionally use some of the tools in my own life. Reiki has been the one that resonates most with me. It has been a good practice for me on many levels to “trust the source” and allow rather than guide the process.
I choose to keep my teaching as pure as possible because it is my belief that people have a right to know what tools are being used when they are receiving treatment, and people also have a responsibility to be conscious of the tools they are using when treating others. In addition, when we mix things up it is sometimes difficult to discern what type of energy is working. It is especially important for people new to energy work to have the opportunity to learn the distinctions. That way each person is able to clearly choose for him or herself the type of work that most resonates with them.
I encourage all who approach energy work to ask questions, and also to listen to their own intuition to determine which healing art (or combination) is best for them.
Treatments: Treatments are typically done on a massage table with the client fully clothed. Basic treatments generally consist of the traditional hand positions and last about one hour, although some people prefer a longer session.
Fees: $60 for one hour or $80 for 90 minutes.
Classes: I offer First, Second and Third Degree/Master training. Courses are offered in order with enough time allowed between each course for the student to integrate and become familiar with the material and energetic shifts that accompany receiving of the Reiki attunements. Check the calendar for current class schedule.
First Degree training is for those who wish to learn to use the Reiki energy for healing of self and/or others. Classes are typically held one evening followed by one full day. In addition to receiving four attunements and learning the basics of Reiki, you will learn the definition/description of the Usui System of Natural Healing, the history and how to give treatments to self and others. There is also plenty of time for practice, as well as questions and answers.
Fee of $150 includes all materials, along with lunch.
Second Degree training is offered to students who have taken the First Degree class and have had some months of committed practice. In this class you will learn the three Reiki symbols and how to use them, you will learn about distance healing, and you will receive an additional attunement. Again, there is plenty of time for practice, as well as questions and answers.
Fee of $250 includes all materials, along with lunch.
Third Degree or Master training is offered to students who are ready to make Reiki a way of life. Here the student learns the Master symbol, along with its meaning and application, the attunement process, and how to teach others. In traditional teaching, a great commitment is required on the part of the student, and there is an on-going relationship between Student and Master. If you feel called to become a Reiki Master, please Contact Me so we can discuss the process and what that will mean for you.
