Discussing Reiki in Difficult Situations

Article by Angie Webster

Often Reiki practitioners get frustrated when other people disagree with the practice of Reiki, particularly when it is family that is against the practice. We all wish others could see our perspective all the time, but it simply isn’t possible. Perhaps when we find that we are getting upset that another doesn’t understand why we see Reiki through the lens that we do, we can try that much harder to understand how Reiki would be perceived through that person’s lens.

The simplest thing to do when trying to talk to others about Reiki, is to not become a zealot about it! Remember, if you aren’t talking to other energy workers you are going to sound a little scary if you become overly zealous and use very spiritual and technical terms when talking about Reiki. Think about what you are trying to communicate. Do you want to help them get a basic idea of what Reiki is? Then don’t overwhelm them with fancy details and concepts, some of which may simply be your own idealizations. Stick to the basics, if that is what you wish to convey. Tell how a Reiki session is done and what it feels like. Tell what it is and what it isn’t. Tell them it is a Japanese form of energy healing used to relax the body and mind, reducing pain and stress and triggering the body’s natural healing response. That is simple and to the point, without fluff.

Some people resistant to hearing about Reiki. Often they fear that Reiki is against their religion. Some religions have set mandates against Reiki because they do not understand what Reiki is. The followers of those religions will naturally feel that they must follow those mandates. They would feel very frightened if they did not. It is not appropriate for you to judge this or to criticize it. Simply honor that this is the belief of that person. You do not have to share the same belief or lifestyle as another in order to fully honor it in unconditional love.

Others fear that Reiki is witchcraft or magic and are resistant for that reason. There are many arguments that Reiki is different and others that it is the same, depending upon who you listen to. My personal view is that energy is ultimately energy and the Divine is ultimately the Divine. God is God. How you make use of the energy is the important thing and that comes down to intention. Some could look upon what Jesus was doing in the Gospels as magic or witchcraft as he often altered objects and the environment and healed simply by his intent. He taught his disciples to do these things as well. If you are talking to someone who is fearful of Reiki for any reason, it is probably best to leave them alone. Let them see your calm example. Offer to tell them more or show them a demonstration when or if they ever feel ready and then leave the subject alone. Fear is a strong emotion and must be dealt with in its own time.

If you encounter someone who is resistant to hearing about Reiki because they think it is fake or doesn’t work, the best thing to do is to allow them to test their own theory in real life! There is no point in trying to explain how and why Reiki works, because in reality no one knows for sure. A skeptic will not settle for less than proof and the proof is in letting them experience Reiki for themselves. Even 10 or 15 minutes of Reiki will usually be enough to allow someone to understand what it does and its benefits. Check back with them in a day or two and see how they feel, or ask them if they would like to try a little more Reiki. Its effects are cumulative!

Sometimes they don’t have a strong belief about it one way or the other, they simply aren’t interested. Maybe they have other healing methods they are more involved with. That is what is right for them and it is not your place to persuade them otherwise. If it is the right time and place for them to learn more about Reiki, they will be guided to it.

In the end, it isn’t your place to convince the world to come to Reiki. Remember, it isn’t a religion, so there is no need to recruit followers. If someone wants to experience the benefits, they are welcome to try it. Examine your motives when you recognize that you are trying to convince someone to see your way about Reiki. Let your ego and your own needs and emotions be put aside and see how you can best serve that person and the greater good, in every situation.

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Angie Webster made a significant contribution to the Reiki community, with a particular focus on Animal Reiki, which she had a deep affection for. As a knowledgeable Reiki Master Teacher and Author, she conducted online courses on energy healing, herbalism, flower essences, and personal growth.
She is the author of “Animal Reiki: How it Heals, Teaches & Reconnects Us with Nature” and “Reiki from A to Z”. Currently, Angie has decided to retire from her professional life to devote more time to her health, family, and the little joys of life.