Reiki is a Japanese word, "Kanji" which translates as "Universal life force energy". As the name implies, it is global and recognized by several names around the world. Ki, Chi, Prana, Mana and Bio-plasmic energy are a few examples. If you are a newcomer to Reiki, like I was a decade ago, you may have a lot of questions regarding this subject. I'll attempt to keep things as simple as possible as well as answer some of these basic questions here:

1. What is Reiki, and what are the different levels of Reiki?

Reiki is one of the simplest techniques available to increase the amount of pure energy within one's body and life. A person who aspires to channel Reiki must generally go through a series of attunements. There are three levels. Level one teaches how to channel Reiki for oneself and others using a hands-on approach. Level two introduces the learner to divine Reiki symbols, which aid in the transmission of energy across long distances. Some feel that the frequency of Reiki becomes finer and hence more potent as one progresses through the levels. Not only can one transmit energies to everyone anywhere around the globe, but one can even transfer energies to the past and future via symbols. This is a game changer, by healing our past, we can also heal our present and future. Level three teaches a Master Symbol and some other deeper teachings, which refines Reiki frequencies even more than level two. Once a person graduates from Level three, they can then teach others and spread the knowledge. 

2. How does Reiki function?

Reiki attunements stimulate the palm chakras of the practitioner. Reiki enters the practitioner's crown chakra, then proceeds through Ajna (forehead, between eyes) chakra, Throat chakra, Heart chakra, and finally to their hands. It is usually perceived as tingling, pulsating, hot/cold sensations. When Reiki begins to flow, practitioners can either place their hands on the client or use a hands-off approach. We are all linked by an invisible layer of energy, which makes Distance Reiki as effective as hands-on Reiki.

Reiki can continue for hours or minutes depending upon time availability. Reiki works on the chakra system. Chakra is a Sanskrit word that means "a wheel" in English. Chakras are etheric in nature. They are accessible from both the front and back of the body. A Reiki facilitator channels Reiki to these chakras and many additional smaller chakras. This process activates and energizes chakras. Each chakra is associated with physical and emotional functions; when chakras are activated and enlarged, they can carry more energy through them, allowing us to live our lives to the fullest.

3. How can I believe in something I can't see?

We cannot see many elements for example air, the frequencies between the remote control and the television, telephones and cellular towers, routers, and devices. We still use them daily. Similarly, energy is all around us. 

Our bodies have a natural ability to heal themselves utilizing the same energy. At some level, we receive this energy when we eat, sleep, go for a stroll in nature, and conduct breathing exercises. A Reiki Practitioner, on the other hand, may channel a considerably larger amount of energy in a much shorter length of time (depending upon their experience level). This allows the body to re-align much faster at all levels (physically, emotionally, ethereally, mentally, and spiritually). Machines that can detect energy levels in the body have also been developed by science. I will attempt to offer additional information about this in a future blog.

4. Is Reiki a religion?

Reiki is not a religion. It, like yoga, is a technique that may be utilized to improve our overall well-being. It can activate our chakras, allowing us to connect more deeply with our faith.

Reiki has five principles that remind us not to worry or be angry, to be kind to all living beings, to perform our work honestly, and to be grateful. This contributes to one being a better person.