Reading, Writing and Reiki: Back to School


Hear those shouts of joy or rather, cries of disappointment? That’s right – it’s back-to-school time. In honor of this season, as adults, we too should think about furthering our education to keep the sense of wonder and awe from learning, like our children. While a course in ceramics, a foreign language or even cooking can provide us with a great sense of fulfillment, what about considering an investment in your health and spirit: Reiki.
Reiki has three or four levels, depending upon the teacher. Upon completing Level I through an attunement, a sort of energetic initiation, people gain much.
The sense of empowerment by learning how to take care of ourselves is one of the most exciting advantages of Reiki. Ailing from a sinus headache, monthly menstrual cramps or recovering from surgery? Put your hands on the area of pain and let the Reiki flow. You can also help loved ones too, such as a child’s booboo, a dog’s aching hip, a spouse suffering from insomnia or a stressed-out best friend can all be soothed.
A benefit that’s slightly more difficult to define is a reconnection to your spirit. Even here in the spiritually aware Northwest, we still get caught up in daily material life. As we end up focusing on the busy-ness of life, it leaves many of us asking “is this all there is?”
Since the healing energy of Reiki comes from a higher power, instead of the practitioner, the giver is in direction connection with it. This link leaves the practitioner feeling at one with the Universe, balanced and peaceful. People attuned to Reiki also have the honorable ability to be of service in a unique way. Being able to provide deep relaxation for a dear friend who suffers from anxiety feels wonderful as does relieving the effects of a cousin’s acid reflux problem or helping your terminally ill grandfather to get a good night’s sleep. Many of us want to make a selfless difference and having Reiki gives people a free, anytime, anywhere skill to do just that.
Once you decide to take Reiki training, the most important step is to find a teacher. Perhaps start by doing research through asking friends or trusted healthcare workers for recommendations, or you may want to set out by perusing websites. Many teachers’ sites provide ample information on their teaching methods, background and fees. When you are seriously considering a prospective teacher, it is a good idea to attend his or her Reiki circle (if available) to get a sense of their teaching style and approach.
Once you narrow down your search, make sure to ask questions. Think about what you need and want so that when asking questions, you find out if the teacher and the program are geared for you need. For instance, if you are already a massage therapist and want to offer Reiki as a part of your services to clients, you will have a different set of needs than someone who has a chronic illness and is in search of drug-free self-help. 
Some questions you may want to mull over are: What is your specialty? What is your general philosophy in practicing and teaching Reiki? Do you provide any course materials? May I contact you with questions or for advice after class is completed?
Ultimately, if you choose to learn Reiki and how you select a teacher is up to you. I recommend you go with your gut. If you do sense that it is right for you, you might as well start by trusting your intuition and the energy you feel. It is something you will be doing quite often while practicing Reiki.