There are many, many people certified and trained to perform Reiki. People from all walks of life, all colors, shapes, sizes, and belief systems have taken the class.
So how do you know which one is right for you? Aren’t they all doing the same thing? Read on, my friend, we’re going on a journey for those answers!
Is All Reiki The Same?
In theory, yes, all Reiki is the same. In practice, that is not the case.
All Reiki practitioners will have learned that a poor diet and unwell body can inhibit mental clarity and energy flow within the practitioner. When this happens, the client may not receive the full benefit of the session.
That’s just an example. Beyond diet, lots of habits or issues can impact a practitioner’s effectiveness! Excessive alcohol use, lack of regular Reiki meditation and practice, and a chaotic lifestyle are other issues that might mean an individual isn’t in the best shape to practice Reiki.
Why does all of that matter? Because there are two distinct ways in which people generally experience Reiki. One is when they are at some sort of gathering, and they express difficulty with an issue that might be aided by Reiki. A friend jumps up and says, “I know Reiki! Come on!” They go to a private space, have a Reiki session, and wait to see what happens. When someone tells me that Reiki “didn’t do anything,” this is frequently the setting in which it was received.
In the other scenario, a client makes an appointment with a professional Reiki practitioner. That practitioner maintains a nutrient-dense diet, and stays well hydrated – almost as if it were their job 🙃. That practitioner regularly meditates on the Reiki Principles, and applies them within their daily life. They are intentionally prepared for the session, mentally and physically, and will call to reschedule if they are not. You, the client, arrive for your appointment and are given space to explain your needs. Your healing is tailored to the areas you would like to be addressed. When your session is over, you are offered water, and given time to discuss any feelings or concerns that have arisen. Your practitioner calls in a day or two to inquire about any specific areas that were addressed.
These experiences are not the same. They will not feel the same, and they will not heal the same. It is true that Reiki is available to all; that is fundamental to Reiki. It is untrue to say that all who practice Reiki do so with equal outcomes.
How Will I Know?
If the practitioner is a friend, you’ll know! If you’re regularly partying with this friend, see them participating in drama, and know that they regularly pack their bodies with fast food and soda, there are some clues! Don’t ignore your friend’s Reiki work necessarily – they’re trying something, and you might still benefit. But maybe this isn’t the person with whom you give Reiki a serious try. As their Reiki practice grows, so might their desire to shift their habits. Allow them grace for growth and space for learning.
What If I Have No Friends?
What happens if you don’t know anyone who is certified and trained, or don’t know anyone you’d trust?
Spas, massage therapists, chiropractors, wellness centers, herbalists, midwives, and even medical centers may hire or have contracts with Reiki professionals. It is perfectly acceptable to call one and ask! Much of the time, you’ll at least be able to get a recommendation. Local groups on your favorite social media platforms are also great places to ask for recommendations!
Once you have your recommendation, call or message the practitioner to ask for a consultation. In most places, this is free. During this consultation, ask questions! Ask if they do anything special that helps their Reiki practice, and, as we’ll discuss later, ask about their training.
Even more important than asking questions is just getting a “vibe.” If you aren’t comfortable with the practitioner, or if they give you a sense of an anxious, depressed, or scattered mental space, take a beat. Thank them, and leave without scheduling your appointment. Think about what really bothered you. Consider whether it was really the practitioner, or if you were hungry, annoyed, or had a headache and need to reevaluate them mentally.
It is likely that they will follow up with you. If you have decided that you want to make an appointment, then do so. If not, it is OK to say, “No, thank you. I have decided to pursue a different path.” Then you call a different massage therapist or spa and ask if they know of someone else. Easy peasy.
Aren’t There Levels? Do I Need a Reiki Master?
Since this article is being written by a professional Reiki Master, I’m going to say “yes!” But no. Or maybe. Yes, there are levels. Maybe it matters. Here’s why:
Most of the time, a Reiki Master will have had instruction and practice over several years. This kind of dedication generally indicates that they are willing to follow a lifestyle that supports their Reiki journey. Of course, that is not always the case.
Sometimes, a Reiki Master has not had years of Reiki practice and training. In some cases, this indicates that they bought a certificate online and watched some videos in order to become “trained.” In other cases, this means that the practitioner has had many years of similar study, is already adept and comfortable with energy work, and has proven their value as both a practitioner and an instructor. That last one is rare, and that practitioner will still have been required to take all of the training.
So, do you need someone with a certificate declaring them a “master” ? Not unless you believe that sheet of paper has special powers. It may be an indication that you have found a Reiki practitioner who is dedicated to the practice, and will provide excellent service. It may mean that this person paid extra to get their certificate, because it means they can make extra money teaching Reiki classes.
Ask them how they were trained – it’s OK. They expect it, and some even know each Reiki master who has trained under which other Reiki master in their “lineage” all the way back to the doctor who refined this method. Check out the practitioner’s website or brochures, to see if the focus seems to be on healing versus business. They have to make a living, so expect that they advertise and advocate for themselves! But once they get you to their space, what is the focus? You can figure out pretty quickly how you feel about the depth of their practice.
Some professional Reiki practitioners are simply happy practicing with a Level 1 certificate and training. THIS IS NOT BAD! This is personal choice, and it does not mean that their abilities or knowledge are lesser. Read that again. It is entirely possible to acquire knowledge and ability outside of formal education in every area of life. Reiki is not an exception. Far more important is a practitioner’s dedication to maintaining Reiki practice and study, and to a living a lifestyle that supports their practice.
Most Important
Without question, the most important factor in choosing a Reiki practitioner is YOU! If you are comfortable with someone, and feel as though they might help you on your healing path, they’re probably the right person for you. In the rare event that you do not feel more peaceful, the session feels awkward to you, or you don’t see a benefit after a session or two, it’s OK to seek out new recommendations. No Reiki practitioner should push you to continue if you are uncomfortable or are not feeling a benefit.
Next Up
How to Prepare for Your Reiki Healing Session
And if you haven’t already, click back to “What is Reiki?” for a no-nonsense explanation complete with studies and evidence and whatnot.
