Reiki is a subtle form of energy therapy
By Deb Dittner
Reiki is a subtle form of energy therapy of Japanese lineage.
Developed by Mikao Usui in the early 1900s, the word reiki consists of two kanji (Japanese pictographs) Rei- meaning “universal” and ki meaning “life force energy.” Together making reiki a universal life force energy used for healing the energetic body.
To experience the healing energy of reiki, the practitioner will place their hands in a series of standard positions on a client who is relaxing on a massage table or chair. Natural crystals and stones are often used by Reiki practitioners. Energy will travel through the client’s body where the client may feel warmth, energy waves, a tingling sensation or simply relaxation. The session, usually lasting an hour, will break apart and evenly release stagnant or blocked energy in the body. The energetic body (aura) is connected to the physical body allowing reiki to be helpful in a variety of physiological imbalances, calming the mind and emotions.
Levels of reiki consist of reiki 1, reiki 2 and master level. Reiki 1 is based on an understanding that all conditions of imbalance are rooted in the human energy field which when addressed will create wellness and one’s own ability to heal yourself, others and animals. Many healthcare facilities will incorporate reiki in a client’s care to help manage stress and soothe and bring comfort.
Reiki 2 strengthens one’s reiki skills, incorporating long distance healing and learning the ancient symbols and protocols.
Master level creates a deeper experience to help heal and transform the ability to promote balance on all levels.
The chakra system was not traditionally used by reiki practitioners for healing. The chakra system is from ancient wisdom originating in India. Chakras coordinate with the endocrine system and help to restore homeostasis.
The crown chakra is associated with the pineal gland (white), and connects our soul’s purpose and higher self. The third eye is associated with the pituitary (indigo), connecting to our vision and intuition. The throat chakra is associated with thyroid (blue), placing communication in relationships as of utmost importance. The heart chakra is associated with the thymus (green) is the connection to giving and receiving of love. The solar plexus chakra is associated with the adrenals (yellow), representing one’s personal power. The sacral chakra is associated with the gonads (orange), corresponds with relationships, passion and sex. The root chakra is associated with the gonads (red) and connects safety, trust and home.
Incorporating the chakra system with reiki can assist in collective healing.
Crystals and therapeutic grade essential oils can also be used by the practitioner. Some examples: 1. Rose quartz is thought of as the love stone for use with self-love, compassion and joy, adding essential oils of ylang ylang and rose. 2. Amethyst for balance, calm and protection, adding lavender and grounding essential oils. 3. Clear quartz is the “master healer” which amplifies energy, adding essential oils of frankincense and highest potential. 4. Citrine is thought of as the “happy stone” producing optimism, abundance and confidence, adding essential oils of abundance and citrus fresh.
Emotional freedom technique is a tapping pressure on certain body points while thinking about what is bothering you, either physically or emotionally. EFT can be helpful in decreasing anxiety and stress. The tapping technique sequence, using two (index and middle) or four (often used on wider areas such as the top of the head, collarbone, and under the arm) finger tips. Determine the problem you want to focus on and what level of intensity you are experiencing (1 – 10 with 10 being the highest). A common statement to recognize regarding the problem you are experiencing can be: “Even though I feel _____, I deeply and completely accept myself and these feelings.” Repeat your statement three times while performing the tapping on the karate chop point. Move the tapping to the following meridian points (starting at the eyebrow, side of the eye near the temple, under the eye, under the nose, between the chin and the lip, the collarbone, under the arm, top of the head) repeating your statement five to seven times with each point. Tapping can occur using one or two hands and placed on either side of the body.
Remember to breathe deeply throughout the sequencing. After the sequence is finished, check in with yourself to see how you feel. Repeat this as many times as needed.
Incorporating reiki, chakra, crystals, therapeutic grade essential oils, and EFT sessions, the client will experience peace and calm and healing.
Deborah Dittner is a family nurse practitioner and health consultant. Her mission is to transform as many individuals as possible through nutrition and lifestyle changes.
For more information, check out her website at www.debdittner.com or contact her at 518-596-8565.