One of the best ways to learn about Reiki is to take a Reiki class. Many Reiki classes only require a commitment of a few hours, while others offer a full weekend of training. In most cases, shorter classes offer Reiki I, Reiki II or a combination of these two introductory levels. Longer classes often cover all the levels of Reiki, including the Mastery level, after which you can teach Reiki to others and provide attunements. Which kind of class you wish to take is up to your personal preference. If you just want an introduction to Reiki, a basic Reiki I or Reiki I and II class will give you a great start.
What is Taught at a Reiki Class
Most teachers begin by discussing the history of Reiki, including its Japanese origins, the history of Dr. Mikao Usui, the “father” of Reiki, and how his teachings were brought to the US. The teacher might also discuss his or her Reiki “family tree,” which shows who provided her attunements and how her teachers relate to Dr. Usui.
Another common topic for Reiki classes is meditation techniques to help you quiet your mind and tune in to energies around you. Staying grounded is important for Reiki practitioners. Sometimes working with Reiki energy can make you feel disconnected or unsteady, and grounding the energy through meditation or even yoga is very helpful in these situations.
The basics of Reiki will also be discussed. Most teachers outline the chakras, discussing their location in the body, colors associated with them, and how they are seen to channel energy. The traditional hand positions used in Reiki practice are related to the placement of the chakras, and are intended to work with these concentrations of energy in the body. Hand positions will also be discussed, often with provided diagrams in a workbook.
In a Reiki II or Reiki III class, the teacher will also discuss symbols that are used to help channel Reiki energy. These symbols help increase the effectiveness of a Reiki treatment, and also allow a practitioner to practice distance Reiki. Master symbols, taught in advanced classes, are used to give attunements to other students.
Receiving an Attunement
At some point during the class, usually after discussion of the above topics, students will receive an attunement. You might lie down, or sit in a chair with your eyes closed, while the teacher draws symbols around you and usually on the palms of your hands. You will feel relaxed and quiet during this time, and the teacher’s hands might feel warm.
After students in the class have all received their attunements, many teachers will then provide space and time for a Reiki session, in which all the students work with each other’s energy. During this time, you will probably lie down on a massage table or similar surface while the teacher guides other students in using Reiki and getting used to the way it feels to administer a treatment. You will take turns working with the energy and being worked on. This is the most relaxed–and often the most fun–part of the Reiki class.
A Reiki class should not make you feel intimidated or uncomfortable. It should be a fun, relaxed class that helps you feel peaceful and renewed. A Reiki class with an experienced teacher is a great way to introduce yourself to this powerful healing art.