Embarking on a Journey of Healing: What to Expect in Reiki Attunement and Training
Reiki, a form of energy healing that was first accessed in Japan, has gained widespread recognition for its ability to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. At the heart of Reiki practice lies the process of lineage-based attunement, which empowers individuals to harness this healing energy for themselves and pass it on to others. Whether you are new to Reiki or considering deepening your practice, understanding what to expect in Reiki attunement or training is essential for embarking on this transformative journey.
Definition and Principles of Reiki
Reiki, which means "universal life energy," is a holistic healing practice that channels energy to support the body's natural healing processes. First accessed by Mikao Usui in the early 20th century, Reiki is based on the principle that an unseen life force energy flows through us, and when this energy is low or blocked, it can lead to illness or stress. By restoring the flow of this energy, Reiki promotes balance, relaxation, and healing.
The Role of Energy Healing in Reiki
Energy healing is central to Reiki practice. Once attuned, you typically use your hands to channel energy into the recipient's body or aura, clearing blockages and restoring harmony. This process can be performed with the recipient fully clothed, or even virtually from significant distances. Reiki sessions typically involve a series of hand placements on or above the body, with each position held for several minutes to allow the energy to flow. These hand placements often, but do not always, correspond with the seven major chakras.
Benefits of Practicing Reiki
Reiki can alleviate pain, accelerate recovery from injuries and surgeries, and improve overall physical health.
By addressing underlying emotional issues, Reiki helps reduce stress, promoting emotional well-being.
Reiki can enhance mental focus, creativity, and decision-making by clearing mental blockages and promoting a sense of calm.
Many practitioners experience a deeper connection to their inner selves and a greater sense of purpose and meaning in life.
The Process of Reiki Attunement
A. What is Reiki Attunement?
Reiki attunement is a sacred and transformative process that connects an individual to the universal life energy. Through this process, a Reiki master transfers the ability to channel Reiki energy to the student, opening their energy channels and aligning them with the Reiki frequency. Attunement is essential for anyone who wishes to practice Reiki, as it establishes the practitioner’s connection to the energy source.
Different Levels of Reiki Attunement
Reiki training is typically divided into three levels, each with its own attunement and set of skills:
First Degree (Shoden):
Focus: Self-healing and healing others through touch.
Attunement: Opens the energy channels and introduces basic hand positions and techniques.
Skills Learned: Hands-on healing, self-Reiki, and foundational principles of Reiki.
Second Degree (Okuden):
Focus: Distance healing and advanced techniques.
Attunement: Further enhances your ability to channel Reiki energy and introduces sacred symbols.
Skills Learned: Use of Reiki symbols, distance healing, and mental/emotional healing techniques.
Third Degree (Shinpiden):
Focus: Mastery and teaching.
Attunement: Deepens the connection to Reiki energy and empowers the practitioner to attune others.
Skills Learned: Master symbols and preparation for teaching Reiki to others.
The Energy of Breath school offers all levels of attunement including Reiki Master attunement. These attunements can be done in-person during a private retreat in Costa Rica, or can be done virtually.
What to Expect During an Attunement Session
Preparation and Setting Intentions:
This may involve meditation, setting personal intentions, and creating a calm and receptive state of mind.
The Attunement Ceremony:
The ceremony is conducted by a Reiki master and can vary in length and structure. It usually involves the use of sacred symbols and rituals to open the student’s energy channels. The student may experience sensations such as warmth, tingling, or a sense of peace as the energy flows through them. Some may even have insights or subtle visions from their higher selves come through.
Post-Attunement Experiences and Sensations:
After the attunement, students often report heightened sensitivity to energy, increased intuition, and a deep sense of connection to the Reiki energy. It's common to experience a period of cleansing and adjustment, where old energy patterns are released and new ones are established.
Each level of attunement builds upon the previous one, gradually expanding the practitioner’s ability to channel and use Reiki energy for healing and personal growth.
We look forward to answering any questions you may have about the reiki attunement process.