Reiki and Periods of Stillness

Article by Angie Webster

We have all had times when we have felt the need to slow down. It affects all of us in different ways, but we all go through cycles of action and movement, followed by receptivity and stillness. It is normal, though we often try to fight it since our modern world has trained us to always be busy and seeking more. Maybe you lack motivation or feel less inspired during these periods. Or maybe you notice a physical slowing down, such as fatigue or mild depression. Some people even get sick in some way when they need to slow down. That may be the only way they allow themselves to have a cycle of less activity. As unpleasant as being down with a cold is, it usually brings some extra rest and snuggling up under a blanket with your favorite pastime or person.

There are periods in nature that are especially designed to help us slow down. Think of the natural decrease in activity during winter as the temperatures decrease, the days are shorter and the sun shines less brightly. The same slow down occurs at night or during a rain. The energy of these times feels less active and the animals will naturally settle down into a more restful state. Many people follow suit and slow down a bit.

If we ebb and flow with our energy in the same way that nature does, we are more likely to stay in balance. But many people find that their current life situation doesn’t allow much space for this. In these situations, we can find rest wherever we can. We may need to make a moment here and there for a pause to take a few breaths, or to make sure we set an alarm to meditate for a few minutes in the morning. Even just pausing to notice something beautiful creates a moment of stillness and peace. It is possible to find moments of stillness, even in a busy life.

In such a busy world, it can feel as if something is wrong with us when our systems need to slow down. Feeling that need or noticing a short period where you feel less lively doesn’t necessarily signal a problem. It is only a signal to flow with your system and return to balance, in many cases. Not listening to this need for balance can create sickness, and the longer you ignore it, the sicker you are likely to be.

If you have found yourself in a period of stillness, or even a dark night of the soul, allow yourself the break to the extent that you can. Consider tuning in to your inner world, rather than focusing so intently on the outer world, achievements and goals. Even in tuning to your inner world, do so in a receptive and relaxed spirit. Do not try to correct or change what you see within or to seek to create new growth. There are times that the inner world needs to rest and replenish in order to continue to grow, just as the land needs the winter to rest for next year’s planting. Tune in, but do so with a motherly and nurturing spirit, one of acceptance and unconditional love.

Using Reiki during a period of stillness is ideal. The restful and loving energy of Reiki goes very well with this state. You may even find that you have been looking to Reiki only for what it can do for you or change about you. During a period of stillness, I encourage you to simply observe Reiki. Allow whatever arises. Reiki requires no doing. It only requires you to open to receive the higher, refined energy that is Reiki. Place your hands on yourself and simply allow, and rest.

Reiki can help nurture you through these periods, even when they are difficult, and especially when they are accompanied by illness. It can soothe you as you let yourself remember how to receive and to flow with the rhythms of nature. These times can be a lovely way to become reacquainted with your own spirit and your body.

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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.