Reiki is seen as a universal style of healing, however, there are a few different styles of Reiki. The most common style of Reiki is Usui Reiki which is considered to be the traditional style of Reiki. A large number of Reiki practitioners begin with Usui Reiki as a foundational base of understanding and then brand out into other styles.
Reiki is a mode of healing that draws upon the energy from your own body, therefore, anyone can learn Reiki as we all possess this energy.
Natural healing methods are becoming increasingly popular as people become dissatisfied with modern medicine and the reliance on pharmaceuticals. People are looking to increase overall good health and a positive sense of well-being both physically and mentally.
Reiki training programs vary in cost and the time it takes to complete the course. Some courses are self-paced and some courses are delivered over the course of a number of weeks depending on the level of certification. Courses are usually provided at the following levels:
- Beginner
- Intermediate
- Reiki Master
Beginning classes usually take a few days, whereas a Reiki Master course can range from weeks and upwards to a year. Reiki education is not regulated so the course length will depend on the amount of content that the educator chooses to include in the course material.
Some classes may include additional study from a broader range of subjects including physiology, psychology, kinesiology and other complementary related subjects such as meditation, massage, and Chakra cleansing for example. Reiki Masters will sometimes have their own specialization which will also influence the content of the course. For example some courses may include Reiki for pets.
Reiki educators will provide a certification or license to acknowledge your completion of the course, however, as Reiki is not a regulated form of therapy, this certification is not standard or required to deliver your Reiki services. Because of this lack of regulation, your code of ethics and commitment to patient privacy and confidentiality should be part of your development as a Reiki professional.
As a Reiki practitioner, you may wish to consider joining a professional organization or association to help provide guidance in your professional Reiki career. Below are some of the most common associations across a variety of countries:
- Reiki Australia
- Australian Reiki Connection
- The Reiki Association of Australia
- International Association of Reiki Professionals
- The Reiki Alliance
- The International Center for Reiki Training
- The Reiki Association
- Canadian Reiki Association
- International House of Reiki
- Shibumi International Reiki Association
- Shelter Animal Reiki Association
Many Reiki practitioners incorporate Reiki into a holistic approach to health and well-being by providing complementary services such as massage, acupuncture, counseling, and many others.