A Japanese word that means universal life force, Reiki is the practice of using the hands system to balance the body. Based on Chinese Medicine and the philosophies of Buddhism and Taoism, Reiki is considered an effective means for alleviating pain, depression and anxiety. Reiki draws from the idea that spiritual energy flows through a Reiki provider who can transfer energy to a patient and thereby heal the patient’s spirit and body through this balance. This holistic, natural and hands-on energy therapy system has the power to heal the body, mind and spirit. Health Benefits of ReikiReiki leads to increased amounts of relaxation by removing blockages in energy flow and the dispersal of toxins. By opening energy channels, clients are able to deal with stress naturally and therefore cope with anxiety and depression without the use of drugs or medication. By optimizing the flow of energy in the body, as well as triggering the natural healing abilities, Reiki has the impact of improving one’s health through self-repair. In addition, Reiki can provide deep reinforcement of the effects of other methods of natural healing, while acting as a complementary system of treatment. The intention behind the teaching of this practice is to assist others in building a sense of self-awareness and understanding of themselves in a completely natural and organic form, ultimately bringing the body back into physical, emotional and spiritual wellness. Get StartedReiki is traditionally taught in three levels. The first degree of Reiki training enables a person to channelize Reiki and begin their personal self-healing ritual. Reiki first degree focuses on teaching the student the art of spiritual understanding and being one with the universe. The second degree of Reiki introduces the student to the three healing symbols of Reiki, which can be used to develop self-awareness, healing of others, and life improvement. By intensifying the flow of energy within oneself, healing abilities are heightened as well. The three symbols of second degree Reiki are: cho ku rei – the power symbol enabling a strengthened energy sending in addition to usage as a protection symbol; se hei ki – the emotional balance symbol; hon sha ze sho nen – the distant healing symbol transcending time and space. After completing the second degree of Reiki and adequate training hours, one may begin practice upon others. The third and final course in the study of Reiki focuses on teaching and attunement elements with the utilization of two new symbols. More complex healing cycles are taught at this level. The end goal of this last level of training is the attunement process, which turns a student into a Reiki Master who can initiate, teach and train others the art of Reiki. At the end of this process, one can truly call him or herself a Reiki Master.Want to read more? Subscribe to one of our monthly plans to continue reading this article.