Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that promotes healing by working with “life force energy.” The Japanese word combines Rei (universal or higher power) and Ki (life force energy), defining it as “spiritually guided life force energy.” This practice is based on the idea that this unseen energy flows through everyone, and low energy makes people more susceptible to illness or stress. Anyone can learn Reiki, regardless of background or prior experience, but channeling this specific energy requires a unique initiation process.
The Necessity of Attunement
The process that distinguishes a qualified Reiki practitioner from someone simply engaging in general energy work is called attunement or initiation. Attunement is a ceremonial energetic transfer performed by a certified Reiki Master that is intended to open the student’s energy channels. This ritual is believed to align the student’s energy frequency with the universal life force energy, transforming the student into a vessel for the flow of Reiki.
The ability to use Reiki is not taught like a traditional skill. The attunement process helps remove energy blockages and awakens the student’s natural ability to connect with and transmit the healing energy. Without receiving this specific initiation from a Master in a recognized lineage, one cannot “do” Reiki in the traditional sense, as the channel is not fully open.
Structured Training Levels
Reiki training follows a structured progression through distinct levels. The first step is Level I (Shoden), which focuses primarily on self-treatment. During this stage, the student receives their first attunement and learns foundational concepts, including the history of Reiki, its principles, and standard hand positions for healing.
Level II (Okuden) significantly expands the scope of practice. Students receive a second attunement and are introduced to sacred symbols used to enhance energy strength and enable distant healing. These symbols allow a practitioner to send Reiki energy across time and space. This level prepares practitioners to treat others outside their immediate circle.
The final level is the Master/Teacher level, sometimes split into Advanced Practitioner (Reiki III) and Master Teacher (Shinpiden). This training involves receiving the Master symbol, which activates the highest level of practitioner energy. The teacher aspect involves performing attunements for new students and guiding their training. This level is for those who dedicate themselves to teaching the practice and passing the lineage.
Applying Reiki for Self and Others
Completing Level I allows the student to begin applying Reiki immediately for self-treatment. This daily self-practice is foundational, helping the practitioner manage stress, promote personal well-being, and become comfortable with the energy flow. A Level I practitioner can also offer hands-on treatment to friends and family in a non-professional capacity.
For professional application and charging clients for services, Level II certification is generally required due to the introduction of the advanced techniques and symbols. The scope of practice at this level includes using the distant healing symbol to provide remote sessions, which expands the practitioner’s reach. There are no prerequisites regarding religious belief, gender, or age—beyond the maturity needed for training—to successfully apply Reiki for personal or professional use.