How to Learn About the History of Reiki

Introduction

Reiki is an ancient Japanese practice rediscovered within the last several decades. It involves lightly placing or holding the hands on or above the patient's body for extended periods of time, purportedly to stimulate positive energy and rebalance the body. It has been used to treat depression, constipation and grief, and is believed to work to heal the entire body holistically.

Steps

1 Step One

Explore the main questions surrounding Reiki. There is some debate as to where its true origins lie: some scholars believe it was influenced by Buddhism, while others believe it evolved independently of any religion.

2 Step Two

Familiarize yourself with the primary figures in the history of Reiki. Dr. Mikao Usui, who rediscovered the practice in the early 1900s and introduced it to the world, is generally considered the father of modern Reiki.

3 Step Three

Learn about the most famous teachers of Reiki. Besides Dr. Usui, these include his students Dr. Chujiro Hayashi and Hawayo Takata, who helped introduce Reiki to a Western audience in the mid-20th century.

4 Step Four

Purchase a book to learn more about the history of Reiki (see Resources below).

5 Step Five

Read through a publication like The Reiki News Magazine (see Resources below). While most of the articles are concerned with current topics in Reiki, the history of the practice is often addressed as well.

6 Step Six

Learn about the health benefits of Reiki and how these benefits were discovered. The International Center for Reiki Training provides a comprehensive online introduction (see Resources below).

7 Step Seven

Locate a Reiki practitioner from a practitioner directory. You can find these via local newspapers or online (see Resources below). Ask your Reiki practitioner about the origins and history of Reiki. Determine whether you would like to learn about the history of the Usui System of Natural Healing (developed by Dr. Mikao Usui), the Radiance Technique, or both.

8 Step Eight

Find a group class in your area. Many practitioners offer them at reduced rates to introduce Reiki and its history, and you may ask questions at these sessions.

How to Learn About Reiki

Introduction

Reiki is a form of spiritual healing wherein hands are placed on or above the patient to purportedly heal and restore the patient's energy. This Japanese practice is used for intense relaxation and to purify the body of sicknesses from cancer to the common cold.

Steps

1 Step One

Find a Reiki class in your area. Many states around the country provide classes, and international classes are available as well. There are many Reiki practitioner directories that make locating a practitioner or a class very easy. Try the International Center for Reiki Training Web site (see Resources below).

2 Step Two

Learn about the different levels of Reiki. As a beginner you will want to attend Reiki I, but classes extend to level II, Usui Reiki Master and Karuna Reiki Master.

3 Step Three

Create a budget. Beginner-level classes are fairly inexpensive, but to learn more about Reiki you might have to attend several sessions.

4 Step Four

Contact the teacher of the Reiki class you decide to take before attending. Ask him or her any preliminary questions you have about Reiki and try to get a feel for the teacher's credentials. In most cases, you can also sign up for your class directly through the teacher.

Research Reiki in Your Community

Steps

1 Step One

Learn more about Reiki by joining a Reiki community in your area. You can attend workshops, retreats and meetings to learn more about Reiki and its ideologies.

2 Step Two

Subscribe to a Reiki newsletter, either an online source or in print. Try the free one published by the International Center for Reiki Training (see Resources below).

3 Step Three

Buy a book to learn about Reiki.

How to Join a Reiki Community

Introduction

Reiki is a Japanese homeopathic therapy that claims to stimulate positive energy in the body and release energy blockages. It is practiced by moving or placing one's hands above or on the body of the patient. Reiki is purported to treat a variety of conditions, including the effects of menopause, asthma and heart conditions.

Steps

1 Step One

Research Reiki communities in your area via the newspaper or other free print resource. The International Association of Reiki Practitioners Web site provides a good starting point for your search (see Resources below).

2 Step Two

Locate a Reiki community that will be a good match for you and your Reiki skills. There are several levels of Reiki practitioners, from Level 1 (beginner) to Master. It's best to join a group that's geared toward members with your level of knowledge.

3 Step Three

Attend a Reiki class or treatment and ask your Reiki practitioner what community he or she belongs to.

4 Step Four

Learn more about the different ideologies inherent in Reiki at The International Center for Reiki Training Web site (see Resources below).

5 Step Five

Go to your local hospital and inquire about joining a Reiki community. Some Reiki practitioners work in conjunction with Western medicinal practices and maintain links with medical facilities.

6 Step Six

Prepare to be welcomed. Reiki practitioners seek to help all people from all walks of life, and chances are you will not be turned away from the community even if you don't know anybody.

7 Step Seven

Work with the members of your Reiki community to bring in new members. You may need to post fliers and devote extra time to the group, but to be a committed member this sacrifice of time will be noted and appreciated.

How to Ground and Center Your Self

Introduction

Most people think of the phrase "ground and center" and immediately see a picture in their mind of a person sitting cross-legged and meditating. It works for that, but it also can help you relax and get a grip on yourself. Stressful situations call for you to have your wits about you. You need to think straight and be ready for action. Taking a few deep breaths and getting yourself back in control can help you do that.

Steps

1 Step One

Spend some time alone. It will give you a chance to tune into your body and find out what it's triggers are and what helps you to relax. Some people like to stand bare foot outside with their feet firmly in touch with the ground. Thats' nice, but you probably won't want to be doing it in December with snow on the ground. You can do this almost anywhere, at any time, when you get good enough at it.

2 Step Two

Visualize. A friend of mine visualizes herself standing tall with her arms outstretched. She visualizes roots stemming from her feet and taking hold in the ground. As she continues on, and moves her hands upwards, she imagines silver cords shooting up towards heaven. She maintains this stance and takes several deep breaths. As she breathes in, she pulls in energy to support her and strengthen her. As she breathes out, she releases stress and any negativity that has collected around her. She holds this stance for three to five minutes and is ready to resume her activities.

3 Step Three

Take several deep breaths. When inhaling, I pull in positive energy and pure white light. When exhaling, I allow all the negative energy out. Whenever you release energy, remember to put something back in its place. Think of things you love and care deeply about. They will give you strength.

4 Step Four

After a few times of doing this alone (so you know what to expect), you will be able to do it pretty much any where. The first time I did it, I relaxed so much, I fell asleep. Like I said, know your body and know what it will do in certain situations.

5 Step Five

When you're done, take a final deep breath. Regroup your thoughts. Make sure you have pulled in any roots or cords you have sent out.
When you have got things in order, go out and tackle whatever needs to be done.

Tips & Warnings

• Do this whenever you feel something getting to you. Take a break. Pull your energy back and regroup.

How to Get the Maximum Benefit From A Massage

Introduction

Massage therapy is on the rise. Schools are now offering classes and degrees for this therapy. The benefits are endless ranging anywhere from eliminating toxins, improving circulation to toning muscles. Read on to learn how to get the maximum benefit from a massage.

Steps

1 Step One

Once you have made your appointment and are at the therapist's office, allow yourself to start relaxing. As you disrobe, let the cares and worries of your day fall away.

2 Step Two

Allow the massage therapist to do their job. Relax and allow them to move your body. Don't offer resistance or assistance unless asked to because this is your chance to relax. Remember that it's OK to sleep.

3 Step Three

When the massage therapist is finished, they will give you sometime to regroup. When you feel collected and ready to get up, move slowly. Don't rush. Take some deep breaths. This will help the detoxification process.

4 Step Four

Drink lots of water following the massage. This has a flushing effect on the body and aids in getting rid of any toxins.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't eat for at least one hour prior to your appointment.
• Make sure your massage therapist is qualified. Check her credentials.
• Ask to see documentation if you have any questions.

How to Get Reiki Treatment

Introduction

Reiki is a complementary healing practice that uses spiritual energies of a Reiki master or healer to treat various kinds of conditions and symptoms. Developed in early 20th century Japan, the practice has found adherents all over the world who praise its benefits and lack of side effects. Follow these steps to get Reiki treatment.

Steps

1 Step One

Find out about the practice. You should have a little bit of understanding of the basics of Reiki. The practice usually involves long periods during which the Reiki healer places his hands on the patient to channel energy. Reiki can be performed as a total body or a local treatment. In some cases, Reiki masters do not touch the body but keep their hands a few inches above the site of focus.

2 Step Two

Locate a qualified practitioner. Reiki practitioners go through a series of courses and training sessions that earns them different levels of expertise. The levels go from level one, the most basic and novice level, to level three. After level three, a practitioner is considered a master. Contact the International Center for Reiki Training or check out Reiki.org to find references for qualified Reiki practitioners.

3 Step Three

Continue other treatment. Reiki is not intended to replace or substitute for other medical treatments. If you are seeing a doctor or receiving other homeopathic treatments you should continue with these processes. The Reiki is intended to complement these treatments and, in cases like chemotherapy, to mitigate toxicity and side effects.

4 Step Four

Consider group Reiki. For most minor ailments such as sporting injuries, insect bites and headaches, a single Reiki practitioner is considered effective enough. If you seek Reiki treatment for more serious conditions, such as the side effects of chemotherapy or other disease treatments, you should consider doing group Reiki, which uses two Reiki practitioners to intensify the healing properties of the treatments.

How to Find a Reiki Practitioner

Introduction

Reiki is a holistic therapy which involves a series of laying hands on the patient in a passive manner. It is used to purportedly stimulate positive energy and break energy blocks, allowing the patient to feel relaxed and healthy. Reiki is commonly used to treat high blood pressure, asthma, anxiety and addictions.

Steps

1 Step One

Ask a physician if Reiki might be an option for you. If it is, ask him or her to recommend a Reiki practitioner. Many hospitals actually use Reiki in conjunction with conventional medicine, so your doctor may be able to refer you.

2 Step Two

Visit the International Association of Reiki Professionals Web site (see Resources below), which includes information on Reiki practitioners and classes around the world.

3 Step Three

Research Web sites to locate Reiki practitioner directories (see Resources below). They can be organized by state or by practitioner name, and often are accompanied by the practitioner's picture.

4 Step Four

Locate a local free publication at your local health food store or bookstore in the New Age section. Under this section will be advertisements for classes and practitioners in your area. You can also often find fliers offering Reiki services posted in metaphysical bookstores.

5 Step Five

Create a list of possible Reiki practitioners. Contact your top picks. Sometimes Reiki practitioners will host a form of open house where they'll explain the basics of Reiki to a large group for a discounted price.

6 Step Six

Listen to your friends and family. Word of mouth is often a positive way to find a Reiki practitioner.

Question Your Reiki Practitioner

Steps

1 Step One

Ask your Reiki practitioner what level of Reiki they have achieved. A Reiki practitioner should have achieved at least the second level of Reiki to be practicing.

2 Step Two

Determine whether your practitioner utilizes other holistic therapies such as massage or aromatherapy, and if those therapies would benefit you. The sessions may end up being more expensive, but they may be worth it.

3 Step Three

Know what you want from a Reiki practitioner. If they have been through similar life experiences, they may be a good match for you since they have healed from the experience and can guide you appropriately.

4 Step Four

Decide if you want a practitioner who will be a guide throughout the entirety of your healing process or a practitioner who will be simply a teacher for a few sessions.

5 Step Five

Select a Reiki practitioner you can afford. Prices range from inexpensive to moderately expensive, although some practitioners will allow barter, scholarship or a fee based on your salary.

6 Step Six

Find out if your Reiki practitioner will make house calls. Many will do so for an increased fee.

7 Step Seven

Research attunement. If you are interested in becoming a Reiki practitioner yourself, or if you want to experience a higher level of Reiki, make sure your Reiki practitioner is a Master practitioner.

How to Try Energy Work

Introduction

Have you ever wondered exactly what energy work involves? Basically, there are many different ways of moving energy around your own body and those of other people. Known as chi or prana in some traditions, this energy is vital to our wellbeing, and gently manipulating it can be fun and energizing (or relaxing). The study of this work can take a lifetime, but it's easy to get started and see what working with energy is like.

Steps

1 Step One

First, try this exercise to learn what the energy we are talking about feels like. Sit or stand comfortably and rub your hands together briskly, until they start to tingle. You are generating heat, which is a form of energy, as well as several more subtle energies. Now move your hands slowly further apart and back together with your palms open and facing each other, and try to feel the energy between them in the form of tingling or a slight resistance. This sensation is the basis of energy work.

2 Step Two

When you can feel the energy between your hands, try to visualize it in the form of a ball. Feel the outer dimensions of the ball, and try to make it larger and smaller by moving your hands. Also try moving the ball up, down and around, and shifting it from hand to hand.

3 Step Three

When you can manipulate your energy ball very comfortably, try passing it over different parts of your body, especially any area where you have discomfort. Notice any sensation in your body as the energy contacts it. Also try directing the energy with one hand, feeling the current between your palm and another part of your body.

4 Step Four

Before you try your energy work on other people, make sure that you are not depleting your own energy. When you direct energy outside of yourself, you will need to draw in energy at the same time. Many people like to do this by imagining a current of energy flowing up through their feet from the earth, or flowing down through the crowns of their heads. Work with these images until you can feel your personal energy being replenished. Then try to maintain this feeling while also directing energy through your hands.

5 Step Five

If you are working with a friend, there are several exercises that you can try at this point. Start again by playing with the energy ball--you can make a big one together, or pass a smaller one back and forth. Then take turns projecting energy toward each others' hands or bodies, and also observing the feeling of receiving the energy. If you don't have anyone to work with, try sensing the energy of plants or animals, which can often benefit from this type of work. There is plenty to practice, but if you can master these exercises you are well on your way to understanding energy work.

How to Heal Yourself Through Reiki

Introduction

Reiki is a form of spiritual healing stimulated through the use of different hand positions laid for varying amounts of time over the patient's body. You can purportedly heal yourself through Reiki by adjusting the hand positions to work on your own body. Proponents say Reiki can be useful in the treatment of physical, emotional and spiritual ailments. Reiki has been used to help in the treat heart disease, cancer and depression.

Steps

1 Step One

Save money by performing Reiki on yourself. Self healing is free!

2 Step Two

Identify your ailment. While utilizing all the Reiki positions can be beneficial, targeting a specific area can expedite the healing process.

3 Step Three

Touch your body only lightly with your fingertips or keep them hovering right over your skin. The energy flow is what is being channeled, and actually touching your body is unnecessary.

4 Step Four

Cover your eyes with your hands like you are playing a game of peek-a-boo, cupping your hands. This position heals sinus ailments that can be found in ear, nose and throat, and in addition eases stress.

5 Step Five

Improve concentration by placing your palms over your temples.

6 Step Six

Focus on your ears which, as with acupuncture, heal a lot of ailments. Cup your hands over your ears for this position.

7 Step Seven

Express yourself more clearly and ease your throat by templing your hands and fingers over your throat. Do not touch yourself especially in this position as it may be frightening and uncomfortable.

8 Step Eight

Aid in asthma issues by placing your hands, palms facing in, over your chest. Your fingertips should be touching and your wrists should be at a ninety degree angle to your body.

9 Step Nine

Control and improve digestion by placing your hands over your abdomen. This position should look the same as the previous step, but your hands should be about six inches further down your body.

10 Step Ten

Treat depression by holding your hands over your naval area. Your fingertips should be touching directly over your naval.

11 Step Eleven

Relieve your body of sexual dysfunction, both emotional and physical, by positioning your hands over your pubic bone. Your fingertips should be pointing toward the opposite foot.

12 Step Twelve

Treat your relationship issues by holding your hands over your lower back. The tips of your fingers should be pointed down and your wrists should be about equal to your waistline.

13 Step Thirteen

Concentrate on your feet to treat most areas of the body at the same time, as all your organs and chakras are centered in your feet. Hold one foot with both hands, one hand covering the bottom of the foot and one hand resting on top.

How to Receive Reiki Newsletters

Introduction

Reiki is a holistic therapy that involves the passive placement of hands over the patient's body. It is said to be useful in the treatment of digestive problems, immune system issues and even emotions. Reiki communities are eager to expand, and thus Reiki newsletters are available in abundance.

Steps

1 Step One

Ask your Reiki practitioner if he or she knows about a Reiki group or community you can join.

2 Step Two

Attend Reiki group meetings. Most Reiki communities will distribute free Reiki newsletters to keep the group informed as to class sessions, workshops and activities.

3 Step Three

Subscribe to the mailing list. Even if a newsletter is not handed out during a class or a group meeting, often the newsletters are mailed directly to your home.

Get Virtual Reiki Newsletters

Steps

1 Step One

Check out the International Center for Reiki Training Web site (see Resources below) to read its newsletter and find links to other Reiki resources.

2 Step Two

Join an online Reiki community or subscribe to its forum. Because of the format of an online group, newsletters are an integral aspect of communication.

3 Step Three

Sign up for the Reiki newsletter, which most online groups have on the first page of their Web sites. Sometimes the newsletters are referred to as e-zines or perhaps even an online magazine.

4 Step Four

Enter your email address in the appropriate box and agree to the terms and conditions of that Reiki newsletter and group.

5 Step Five

Ensure that your email service will allow a newsletter. Unblock your spam control for that particular Web site and email address.

6 Step Six

Question the facilitators of the Web site or the newsletter as to their privacy policy. Make sure they will not sell your email address to another group, and make sure that your personal information is being protected.

7 Step Seven

Check to see if you will need to enable cookies to get the Reiki newsletter.

8 Step Eight

Find out how often the newsletter is published. You may want to subscribe to multiple newsletters if a particular newsletter is a limited publication.

9 Step Nine

Enjoy your Reiki newsletter where you will be kept up-to-date on the Reiki world and its activities. Most online newsletters also allow you access to their previous newsletters through their archives, so you can catch up on what you have missed.

How to Take a Reiki I Class

Introduction

A Reiki practitioner goes through three levels before moving on to the master designation. Each level involves a deeper intensity and a stronger ability to pass on the healing energy of the higher power through the hands. Prior to taking any Reiki classes, you should receive a Reiki treatment and see how you feel. The next step is to get a Reiki attunement from a master. Read on to learn more.

Steps

1 Step One

Find a Reiki master who holds classes. They are found in yoga centers, in new thought churches and online. The most important factor is that you want to learn from someone whom you respect and believe in. Some famous Reiki masters charge large fees, while other less notable masters give you the same energy and instruction for little or no fee.

2 Step Two

Get a Reiki treatment from the master prior to asking him or her to give you an attunement and train you on level one. Your comfort level with your trainer is as important, possible more important, than the reputation of the trainer.

3 Step Three

Prepare for your class by spending time in meditation prior to the class. Dress comfortably and avoid caffeine or any other kind of chemical stimulant. The level I training can take anywhere from two to eight hours.

4 Step Four

Go for a full vacation of Reiki training at one of many spas around the country that offer Reiki masters to their guests. You can receive energy treatments, an attunement and enough hours to qualify you for master designation in the span of a three-day spa vacation, typically set in harmonious, peaceful surroundings.

How to Take a Reiki Master Course

Introduction

After receiving a Reiki attunement, which is supposed to align your vibrations with your ki or 'life force energy', you are eligible to take level one, two and three classes. After level three, a Reiki practitioner can give attunements. The next phase is to take classes to become a Reiki master. A Reiki master can teach and receives a higher level of recognition in the new age community. Read on to learn more.

Steps

1 Step One

Check the lineage of the Reiki master from whom you will take your training. In Reiki, you receive the wisdom of all previous Reiki masters who have passed on the tradition to your teacher. You too can claim the same lineage.

2 Step Two

Ask for a certification from your teacher. While there are no formal licenses required to perform Reiki, a certificate from a recognized trainer can add to your credibility when you begin to charge for your services.

3 Step Three

Open your mind and heart before you interview a potential Reiki teacher. You will want to trust your instincts on this since Reiki is a spiritual practice. You need to be able to feel positive, supportive energy from your teacher in order to realize the full benefits of the practice and of your own abilities.

4 Step Four

Shop around if money is an issue. Many excellent Reiki masters charge very little for their training because the practice has become very popular in new thought communities. Also, many Reiki masters hold regular jobs, and they don't rely on training fees to live on.

How to Become a Reiki Master

Introduction

Reiki is an alternative medicine therapy that utilizes healing energy, meditation and positive thinking to enhance overall health. Originating in Japan, Reiki has become popular in the United States. There are three levels to Reiki: I, II and Master. Reiki Masters have changed their inner beings and can train other students in Reiki. Here's how to become a Reiki Master.

Steps

1 Step One

Open your mind and your heart to the Reiki system. You must have a desire to learn Reiki healing techniques and a desire to pass your knowledge onto others.

2 Step Two

Train in the Reiki system through a Reiki school, private instruction from a Reiki Master or through a healing arts center offering Reiki classes.

3 Step Three

Pass through Level I and II of the Reiki grades. Both are done in a similar format, taught in a weekend or two depending on the instructor.

4 Step Four

Choose a Reiki Master to learn from on an individual basis. This is more intensive training than the Level I and II classes. Try a session or two with one Master to make sure you are a good fit. If not, select another Master until you have found one that works best for you.

5 Step Five

Complete an apprenticeship with a Reiki Master. Some Masters require an apprenticeship of up to one year.

6 Step Six

Teach what you have learned to others. Reiki Masters become teachers of the art--when you become a Reiki Master, you are expected to pass on your knowledge to Reiki students and practitioners.

Tips & Warnings

• Reiki practitioners should join the International Association of Reiki Professionals.
• Training to become a Reiki Master can cost as much as $10,000.
• No financial aid is available for Reiki students.