Choosing Your Reiki Teacher

Becoming attuned to Reiki energy is sure to be a major milestone in your life. For me, there is a very well defined “before and after” moment. Let there be no doubt, Reiki is life changing.

Those of you who are familiar with my story know that I became attuned to comfort my 15 year old pitbull, Carmen, when it was time for her to pass on. However, her Reiki treatments caused her to bounce back and stay healthy for another 9 months! I went from watching Carmen die, to running and playing with her again. Miraculous!

But that was only the beginning. Reiki not only affected Carmen, but my own outlook on life began to change. I started noticing an increased awareness. I felt connected to nature and more understanding toward my neighbors and coworkers. I was less bothered by things, both large and small. Over time, I felt less worried about the future, more peaceful and confident that things would work out. I began to trust that the Universe would provide for me and my family. These are the gifts that Reiki brings.

I very much enjoyed my first Reiki teacher. She was detailed, thorough and knowledgeable. She was also quite expensive and a couple of hours drive from my home. I chose her because she could get me “trained” the quickest, remember I had a dying dog. My need was urgent.

Once I was attuned, I was utterly fascinated with the energy flow in my hands. Never had I experienced anything like it, except it did feel a bit like “coming home” – like I had found something that had been missing for a long time. Something once known, but since forgotten.

Becoming attuned takes only a few minutes, but it starts a healing process within the student. Sometimes this includes a healing detox of the body and this was the case with me. I went through several days of flu like symptoms as the toxins left my system. After that I just felt better and better. There is nothing like a Reiki cleanse!

Choosing my Reiki II teacher was easy. I needed someone affordable and close by. I also wanted someone who could teach me the second level in a day, as opposed to the 2-4 day sessions offered by my first teacher.

Websites and social media can provide a wealth of information about practitioners. You can look up offerings and prices by googling Reiki in your area. Search Facebook and Twitter to see if you find someone whose comments and posts you are attracted to.

Using the Internet, I found a great teacher with reasonable rates. And I loved the space she taught in. It was mystical and pretty, filled with whimsical artwork, lots of crystals, and Reiki literature. It felt safe and comfortable. Peggy had a lovely warm energy about her. Upon completing my Reiki II, I went on to complete my Reiki Master Teacher training with her.

If you prefer a more personal approach, attending a healing circle is a great way to meet local Reiki practitioners. Connecting with the Reiki community is always an eye opening experience. It’s generally inexpensive, often free, and you get to experience healing first hand. I have used healing circles to meet those who teach different flavors of Reiki. There are many offerings and I have taken advantage of several – Violet and Purple Flame Reiki, Kundalini Reiki, Reiki and Crystal Healing among them. Becoming attuned to different styles for Reiki has enhanced and broadened my practice.

Don’t forget to use your intuition when picking a teacher. Whether you have a lot of practice and are very comfortable relying on inner guidance, or even if you are new at connecting to intuition, this is an invaluable tool. Ask the universe, spirit, God, or your angels to assist with your search and then pay attention. Your answers may come in surprising and unexpected ways.

Do your research and trust that you have been led to the correct place. Keep your mind and your heart open. Every teacher has something to give us. It may not be what you were anticipating, but it could be just what you need!

Article by Patti Deschaine

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Patti Deschaine is a traditionally trained Usui Reiki Master, Lightarian Reiki Master, and owner of Maja Energy Works and Reiki Healing. She resides and practices in Wilmington, NC. She enjoys all types of Reiki and particularly loves using Reiki on animals. Patti can be found at MajaEnergyWorks.