Public interest in Reiki treatment and practice is rising rapidly, leading many to wonder: What’s the best way to learn to practice Reiki?
The best scenario for learning to practice Reiki is an in-person group class with a qualified, responsive Reiki master who is also a skilled teacher, and who offers students on-going support.
A group class is a richer experience than going solo. Interacting directly with people in the same room, both the teacher and other students, enlivens the learning experience in ways even the most sophisticated technology cannot replace.
Here are some points to consider when choosing a Reiki class and Reiki master:
The teacher’s Reiki competence --
Does she practice daily self-treatment? YES I do!!!
A teacher who practices daily hands-on self-treatment values and understands the practice with greater depth than teachers who don’t have a consistent, committed self-practice.
Also inquire:
What was her Reiki training? Reiki 1, Reiki 2, Reiki Master Teacher - twice just because & Karuna 1/2 & 3/4
What is her Reiki lineage? Usui & Karuna
Was she a Reiki professional offering treatment to the public before becoming a Reiki master? Absolutely - I've been a reiki practitioner for over 14 years and a Reiki Teacher for 12
What teaching experience does she have? I am a Certified Teacher with the Canadian Reiki Association, with over 150 students at this time
What avenues has she created to offer students continuing support? I offer a monthly Reiki Share as well as ongoing mentorship
It takes time to become a skilled Reiki master/teacher–and I mean years.
The quality of the teacher’s presence --
Is she welcoming, non-judgmental, even-tempered, professional, and anything else you feel is important in a teacher? I believe so, yes - you can check out the testimonials & praise from my Reiki Classes here
Does she have clear boundaries? I always have clear boundaries!
Does she communicate clearly? YES, always
Your rapport with the teacher --
This is an important relationship, so contemplate your values. If you are choosing between a teacher you like vs. one with more experience or a bigger reputation, I’d go with the one you like, especially if she will continue to be accessible to you, as long as she is qualified and committed to her students. Many of my students over the years have become amazing friends too!
First degree-only class --
Give yourself the benefit of taking a class that is devoted to basic hands-on practice, with a focus on daily Reiki self-treatment.
The class should include the degree initiations; protocols for self-treatment and informally offering Reiki to others (this is not professional training); an accurate overview of the history of the practice, starting with Mikao Usui; and ample in-class practice time.
The goal is for you to feel comfortable continuing your daily self-treatment at home by the time the class ends.
Time --
Eight hours or so is a reasonable amount of time for a small group class.
Accessibility of the location --
Is it necessary for the class to be easily accessible, or is it possible for you to travel to study with a Reiki master you feel drawn to?
Fee --
Did your mom ever tell you (as mine did), “You get what you pay for?” My advice? Go with who you're drawn to, regardless of the fees. Just because someone charges less does not mean that you'll be receiving the most perfect training for you!
Low fees might indicate low confidence, little experience, or lack of grounding.
You want a teacher who appreciates the value of Reiki practice in today’s world.
After all, you live in today’s world, don’t you?
Your First degree Reiki training is a one-time investment that brings dividends for life; it makes sense to be generous to yourself.