Reiki is a Japanese holistic healing technique that is used for relaxation and the promotion of healing. It involves the laying on of hands as a way to stimulate and redirect universal life energy, which is the energy that flows through all living things. This safe, spiritual healing technique is being used more and more in conjunction with traditional medicine to help treat such ailments as high blood pressure, depression and chronic pain. Reiki is also beneficial for those wishing to connect more fully with their Higher Self, and find greater spiritual peace.
How to Find a Reiki Practitioner
Over the past few years, traditional western medicine has begun to recognize the many benefits of holistic healing methods. Because of this you will find that many hospitals and family practice clinics will offer Reiki treatments as a form of complementary healing. Ask your family physician if they can refer you to a Reiki practitioner or if they happen to know of one in your area. You can also call medical clinics near you and see if Reiki treatments are offered.
Check bulletin boards or fliers at your local health food store, library or bookstore. Oftentimes there will be listings for holistic healing classes or practitioners, and you may find a Reiki practitioner listed there.
Go by word of mouth. Ask friends or family if they can recommend a Reiki practitioner or if they've heard of any in your area.
Quite a few Reiki practitioners are also licensed massage therapists. Check your local phone book or online listings and see which massage therapists in your area are also Reiki practitioners.
Research on the web for Reiki practitioners near you. You can also try the World Wide directory of Reiki Practitioners.
The Next Step- Choosing the Reiki Practitioner Who is Right for You
Before investing your time and money in Reiki sessions, it's important to find the Reiki practitioner who is right for you. Before scheduling an appointment, speak with Reiki practitioner by phone, ask about their qualifications and practice, and see how you feel about them.
First of all you should ask what level of Reiki they are. Reiki practitioners who are working with clients should have at least finished Reiki II. Next, ask how long they have been interested in and studying Reiki, as well as how long they've been working with clients. This helps you get an idea of how seriously they take Reiki and how much time they've put into their training.
Trust is a very big component when it comes to working with a Reiki practitioner. You will want someone you feel comfortable with, who is willing to answer your questions, who will be sensitive to your needs, friendly and yet, at the same time professional.
Ask the Reiki practitioner about their lineage. A lineage refers to the line of Reiki masters (teachers) that leads to the students. A traditional Reiki practitioner will be able to trace back their teachings directly to Mikao Usui, the founder of Usui Reiki.
Remember that even if a Reiki practitioner is qualified or comes highly recommended, they may not be the right person. The important thing is for you to feel comfortable with the person, so that you will be open to the healing benefits of Reiki.
*Important Note- Even though Reiki offers many spiritual, emotional and physical benefits, it is not meant to replace modern medical treatments. Beware of a Reiki practitioner who discourages you from seeking medical or psychological treatment, or claims they can cure you.
Further Reading
Just the Facts: Unraveling 5 Myths About Reiki
