How can I start practicing Reiki?

The first step is to learn Reiki.

Although you can learn about Reiki online and by reading books about it, there is no way to actually truly learn how to do it unless someone teaches you directly.
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There is a wide range of Reiki styles available today, and a wide range of Reiki classes of varying durations and prices, some closely connected and others less connected to the original form of this healing art.

It is important to pick the style of Reiki that resonates with you.

Keep in mind, that Reiki is a hands-on healing practice from Japan, so it is a very much a Japanese healing art. It was developed by Mikao Usui in the 1920s. He created a very specific Reiki treatment method for body and mind, as well as a very specific way of teaching Reiki which included Reiju (often mistranslated as “attunement”) and hands-on training.

So if you’d like to learn Reiki similar to the way Reiki was originally taught and practiced by its founder your class should have the following elements:

• It should be clearly connected to Japan
• It should be simple and everything should make sense
• It should include Reiju
• It should be in-person (there is no way to have a distance Reiju)
• It should include hands-on practice
• It should have at least one other student for group practice
• It should be taught by a person who has at least some experience as a Reiki practitioner (not someone who just learned Reiki)
• It should be taught by a person who has a clear Reiki lineage connecting them to Mikao Usui (they should know who was the teacher of their teacher, and all the teachers before them, all the way to Mikao Usui)
• It should be followed by regular practice meetings offered by your teacher to enhance your Reiki ability and to improve your Reiki technique
• It should not be outrageously expensive (should not cost thousands of dollars)

This type of Reiki training may be difficult to find, but it is worth it if this is what you are drawn to. Jikiden Reiki is one of such styles, and you are always welcome to learn with me at the Jikiden Reiki Training Center at San Diego Reiki.

Of course, you may also be drawn to other styles of Reiki. There are literally hundreds of Reiki styles that have been either modified from the original or have been created from scratch in recent years. Some of those styles may include additional elements, such as Chakra clearing, crystals, guides, attunements, but may be missing some of the original teachings, or may be taught online.

You may also choose to learn more than one style of Reiki. You are the only person who knows what is right for you.

Once you complete your Reiki training, you should be able to start your own practice immediately. I would also recommend continuing utilizing your teacher for ongoing guidance and support even if you start practicing independently.​

At San Diego Reiki I offer classes and workshops that help my students with information on how to start their own Reiki practice. You are always welcome to take advantage of those seminars as well.