Finding The Best Reiki Class for You
There seems today a myriad of ways to learn Reiki - so many forms, so many teachers, so many lineages, sub-lineages, and cross-over lineages. There are online classes, books claiming that “when you read this chapter, you will have the first degree Reiki initiation” as well as attunements offered on Instagram Live,YouTube or downloadable webinars. I’ve met students of these workshops who were left unsure if they’re “doing Reiki right.” I’m really not sure either because I haven’t learned those practices.
As a teacher of a more traditional form of Reiki, I only know what I know and I only practice and teach what I’ve know works.
I get a lot of calls from prospective students asking -- What is Reiki? How do you teach it? And some who’ve done wide research ask questions related to other practices -- do you teach crystals, chakra alignments, or calling in spirit guides?
It’s very difficult to discern the “right” path when you haven’t even started walking.
Hands-on practice in Reiki 1 class.
My best advice is to find a practicing and experienced teacher that you feel a connection with and let the practice teach you - what you have been given, what you learn from it, what you question about it. If it feels incomplete, be open to learning more - but start with practicing more!
Many teachers will boast multiple lineages, shorter lineages, and how long since their initiations. They’ll generate their own brands and styles. They may add aromatherapy, crystal healing, and energy readings, or assign books and create manuals. I haven’t personally found these useful to Reiki practice, and at times, perhaps distracting for students just getting started.
As a teacher, I serve to introduce you to Reiki in the form of my daily practice - Usui Shiki Ryoho. I try to share as honestly as I can and answer any and all questions I can in class. But I can’t share the knowledge I’ve gained through years of practice in a few days.
A teacher can introduce an authentic Reiki practice, but only the student can fortify their own relationship with Reiki energy. This is done through self-treatment and practice alone. The practice and the energy of Reiki is the best teacher, and even as a Reiki master, I still very much consider myself a student of Reiki. It still teaches me!
Takata Sensei would liken the Reiki attunements to the old rabbit ear antennas on analog TVs and radios. The ability to channel Reiki is innate. The signal is out there for download. And through initiations, a master attunes them for best reception. But what use is the signal if you don’t turn on the set?
Some suggestions in choosing a Reiki class & teacher:
Class should be in-person - for attunements and hands-on practice
Class should take a little time - be wary of short workshops
Reiki practice (on yourself and others) should be involved in class - the first time you practice on others should, in my opinion, be with a teacher supervising a form they practice regularly
If you’re unsure, talk to the teacher and trust your gut
