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Understanding the Journey to Becoming a Reiki Master in Australia
Becoming a Reiki Master is a profound spiritual journey that continues to deepen one's connection with universal energy and prepares a person to share this gift with others. It is much more than a title, it also a mark of a readiness to pursue a lifelong commitment of healing and spiritual growth and to share that with the broader community.
My name is Fiona Phillips and I am an experienced Japanese Reiki Practitioner and Reiki Shihan practicing and teaching the Usui system of Natural Healing based on Komyo ReikiDo in Melbourne, Australia. I specialise in using and teaching authentic, traditional Japanese Reiki practices.
Let's now delve into the steps and commitment involved in becoming a Reiki Master.
What does 'Reiki Master' Mean?
It may surprise you to learn that the term 'Reiki Master' was never used in the original system of Reiki taught by the founder of Reiki, Mikao Usui or his last Teacher student, Chujiro Hayashi. It is a term used only in Western Reiki. In traditional Usui Reiki, the term 'Shihan' was used (and is still used by Japanese Reiki systems), which simply means 'Teacher'.
'Reiki Master' was coined in the West by Hawayo Takata, a Japanese-born American, who brought Reiki to the West. She likely changed the term 'Shihan' to 'Master', as a way to capture the reverence and respect inherent in Japanese culture towards Teachers which she knew to be lacking in Western culture. By using a term like 'Master', it gave the immediate impression of a person to be respected.
In a way, the term 'Master' is misleading. In spiritual circles, the term 'Master' traditionally refers to an individual who has achieved the highest level of spiritual development, enlightenment, and mastery over specific spiritual practices. However, in Reiki, when one obtains the level of Shinpiden (the highest level taught in Reiki), enlightenment is not required, nor expected. Indeed our constant reckoning with our humanness is something we accept and work with in Reiki as a lifelong journey with the help of our daily Reiki healing and spiritual practices.
The term 'Master' in the West, is particularly misleading when you consider that these days, there are Western Reiki courses which offer 'beginner to Master level Reiki' in one single weekend or over several consecutive weekends. In such case, neither the term 'Master' nor 'Teacher' seems appropriate given the lack of any experience let alone any experience of depth.
In Traditional Japanese Reiki, 'Shihans' (Teachers) are considered to be people who have walked a path of integrity, healing and spiritual growth, with many experiences, wisdoms and insights gathered from their years of practice, who have a deep understanding and reverence for the practice and who wish to share that with others.
They are not considered masters of anything, rather, they have attained a high level of spiritual knowledge and perhaps had glimpses of enlightenment, who are capable of teaching and guiding others on their spiritual journey. It connotes deep wisdom, expertise, and the ability to attune and mentor students in their own spiritual practices.
For the purpose of this article, I will use both 'Master' and 'Shihan', on the understanding that 'Master' in Western Reiki, simply means Teacher.
When discussing the Reiki Levels required to obtained Master/Shihan level, I will be referring to the Japanese Systems of Reiki, as opposed to Western Reiki (although the levels are similar enough to get an idea of how Western systems works as well).
If you want to learn more about the difference between Japanese and Western Reiki, there is a section entitled 'Japanese and Western Reiki Explained' in an article I wrote prior. It is also discussed in my other post under the sub-heading 'Western vs Japanese Reiki'.
I will likely write a dedicated post in the near future, elaborating more on my experience with both systems of Reiki, but for now, you can read a little bit more about this here under the subheading 'MY REIKI TRAINING: From Western to Japanese Reiki.'
What is Reiki Master Level? How to become a Reiki Master
Level I (Shoden): The Beginning of Your Path
Shoden is where it all starts. It means 'beginner's level'. I consider this to be more than just that, it is the foundational level where you learn all the essential practices you need for their own healing and spiritual growth, core practices which you will do for life, regardless of any higher level you may undertake in the future. You'll learn the basic concepts and techniques of Reiki, and you'll start practicing on yourself, friends, family, and even pets. In Western Reiki this involves the hands on healing aspect of Reiki practice and in Japanese Reiki there are additional foundational spiritual practices taught.
This foundation is crucial because the more you heal yourself and the deeper your spiritual growth, the more effective you are as a Reiki channel both for yourself and others. If you are interested in professional practice, having a committed, daily and deep practice following learning Level I is essential. Think of this stage as planting a seed that will grow as you advance.
Level II (Chuden): Deepening Your Practice
Chuden builds on the foundational practices learnt in Level I Shoden. Here, you learn advanced techniques like distance healing and sacred symbols that tune in to specific healing aspects of Reiki as an energy. This level can be undertaken a minimum of month after Shoden (although a longer period is always beneficial) and marks a shift from focusing solely on self-practice to starting to work with others. Additional traditional Reiki techniques are introduced in Japanese Reiki (they are generally not taught in Western Reiki) that deal with eliminating unwanted habits or toxins and a finishing technique for Reiki on others which helps circulate the blood and energy after a hands-on Reiki session.
The minimum recommended time between this level and moving on to professional practice is 6 months. It is highly recommended that students work with as many family and friends as possible to gain as much experience and exposure to the energy when working with others and to build up your professional skills in terms of others experience of the Reiki and responding to that, in addition to your daily self-practice during this period (noting that daily self-practice is a life-time commitment).
Level III (Okuden): Deepening Your Spiritual Exploration
Okuden takes you deeper into the spiritual aspects of Reiki. This level, typically reached six months after Chuden (as a minimum), is very much about reflecting on your experience of self-practice and practicing on others, the insights and wisdoms gathered up to this point of your practice and diving deeper into the spiritual aspects of the practice, gaining new insights through engaged and deep discussions. You’ll learn an additional symbol know as the 'Master symbol' and reflect on your Reiki journey.
Level IV (Shinpiden or Master/Teacher Level): The Beginning of Your Path
Shinpiden, the Master/Shihan level, is the culmination of your experience and relationship with Reiki to date and your deep commitment to the practice. Whilst often thought of as the pinnacle of learning, in truth, this is just the beginning. At this point in your journey you are willing to make a full commitment to the life of a Reiki practitioner and student, a lifelong dedication to the principles of Reiki, to self healing and spiritual growth and being of service to others in any way in which may be your calling (whether or not you choose to practice or teach Reiki professionally). As a Reiki Master/Shihan, you are dedicated to life to this way of being.
In terms of the Level IV Reiki course, this is where you review everything you’ve learned through your practice and experience with Reiki, all levels are reviewed both from a personal and teaching perspective and you are taught the attunement process, in preparation to teach others, should that be your calling. This level requires a significant commitment to your path and often at least a year of preparation after Okuden.
Becoming a Reiki Master is not just about learning techniques; it’s about embodying the principles of Reiki in your everyday life and sharing this wisdom with others.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Reiki Master?
Total Time Frame: On average, it can take a minimum of 1.5 to 2 years to become a Reiki Master/Shihan, assuming you follow the minimum recommended timeline.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
Level I to Level II: Approximately 1 month.
Level II to Level III: Around 6 months.
Level III to Level IV: At least 1 year.
However, this is considered a minimum. The Australian Reiki Connection and Reiki Australia both emphasize the importance of taking time to develop a deep understanding and practice of Reiki, rather than rushing through the levels. Many practitioners may take longer, depending on their personal journey and the depth of their practice, as many programs, recommend a period of ongoing practice and spiritual development before advancing (ARC Website ) (Reiki Australia). Many teachers decide on a person to person basis as to whether an individual is ready and elligible to attain level of Shihan.
Without putting an exact time on it, it is not uncommon for deeply committed practitioners to take 5-6 years plus, before embarking on Shinpiden level.
Deepening Your Spiritual Connection
Becoming a Reiki Master is not just about ticking off levels; it’s about deep personal transformation and intimate understanding of the energy and the practice of Reiki. The journey to becoming a Reiki Master is deeply personal and can’t be rushed. The essence of attaining the highest level of Reiki lies in the depth of your self-healing, spiritual practice, and the wisdom you gain along the way. It is vital to cultivate a profound relationship with Reiki energy, allowing time for personal growth and transformation.
Embracing Patience and Dedication
While fast certification might seem appealing, it's important to exercise caution and not be swayed by the perceived prestige of titles like 'Master' or 'Shihan'. The temptation to chase labels rather than dedicating oneself to the authentic, lifelong journey of healing and spiritual growth through Reiki may reveal that we still have further to go on our spiritual path. This path requires patience, dedication, and a deep commitment to the journey. Rushing through training can undermine the depth of understanding and experience necessary for becoming an impactful healer and Teacher. Aspiring Reiki Masters/Shihans are invited to focus on cultivating a daily practice, nurturing their connection with Reiki, and allowing their journey to unfold naturally.
While some courses may offer rapid progression to the Master level, some even offering it within a single weekend, it’s crucial to approach such options with caution for this reason. The depth and breadth of your Reiki practice and the impact you can have on your clients and students depend on the time and effort invested in your training.
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Who is a Reiki Master? What Factors Make a Good Reiki Master/Shihan
Deep Understanding and Practice of Reiki
A good Reiki Master/Shihan has years of experience practicing Reiki on themselves and others. This experience helps them understand the nuances of energy healing, the different ways it can manifest, the challenges of committed self-practice and an intimate knowledge of the practices themselves.
Continuous Learning
They continue to learn and deepen their knowledge of Reiki, often studying different Reiki systems and integrating new insights into their practice (Reiki Australia).
Embodiment of the Five Reiki Principals - Personal Qualities of a Reiki Master
Integration and Embodiment of the Practice: They embody the five principles of Reiki (Gokai). The five principles taught in the Shoden Level 1 Reiki course are considered the number one spiritual practice. This is a lifelong practice to help transform our way of being, to be like Reiki.
This practice takes time to integrate and experience fully, allowing one to embody the principles over time. Without a deep personal relationship with, experience of, and transformation through living these principles, it is impossible to teach them effectively to students.
Compassion and Empathy: A Reiki Master/Shihan should be compassionate and empathetic towards all human beings (without limitation or condition). On the level of Teacher, a Reiki Master/Shihan must be able to connect with their students on a personal level and understand their unique needs and challenges. The deeper their spiritual practice, the more capacity a Reiki Master has in this respect.
Integrity: They also must have integrity: They practice with integrity (which includes having a committed daily practice, and having habits and ways of being that embody the principles of the practice) as well as maintaining high ethical standards and setting a good example for their students (ARC Website ).
Teaching Skills of a Reiki Master/Shihan
A good Reiki Teacher can explain concepts clearly and simply, making them accessible to students at all levels, and has enough depth of experience to share stories of Reiki to help bring those concepts to life for students who are first encountering the energy and the practice. In other words, they must know more than just the concepts and theory, which is why many years of experience is recommended.
Adaptability: They are flexible and able to adapt their teaching methods to suit the individual needs of their students.
Mentorship: Beyond just teaching techniques, they mentor their students, providing guidance, encouragement, and support throughout their Reiki journey (ARC Website ). In order to have the capacity to do so, they must necessarily have a depth of personal and professional experience in their own practice to effectively guide, support, and mentor others.
Spiritual Depth
A deep personal spiritual practice is crucial. This helps them maintain a strong connection to Reiki energy and provides a solid foundation for their teaching.
Emotional Healing: They have done significant work on their own emotional and spiritual healing, which allows them to hold space for their students' healing processes without projecting their own issues.(Reiki Australia).
Professionalism
They have proper accreditation and adhere to the standards set by professional Reiki organizations. This includes ongoing professional development and participation in the Reiki community.
Ethical Practice: They are aware of and maintain professional boundaries, referring students or clients to other healthcare professionals when necessary (ARC Website ).
Community Involvement
Active Participation: They are active in the Reiki community, attending workshops, conferences, and other events. This helps them stay connected with other practitioners and keep their knowledge up-to-date.
Post-Course Meet-ups for Students: They hold gatherings for students on an ongoing basis, allowing continued learning and practice for students and continuing their mentorship post-course.
Supportive Environment: They create a supportive and nurturing learning environment where students feel safe to explore and grow in their Reiki practice.
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Why Become A Reiki Master?
This is a great question! For some, the allure and status of the title is the end goal and the main event. Such people are in a rush to attain the title of 'Master' and misunderstand it to mean they have reached the top. Hopefully, after reading this article so far, you will have already gained a different appreciation for the deeper journey on offer.
As mentioned earlier, the term 'Master' can be misleading in the context of Reiki. In spiritual circles, it traditionally refers to an individual who has reached the pinnacle of spiritual development and enlightenment. However, in Reiki, such a level of enlightenment is neither required nor expected at the highest level offered when learning Reiki. Reiki practitioners constantly engage with their human nature, embracing and working with it.
In traditional Japanese Reiki, those who reach the highest level of training are recognized as 'Shihans' (Teachers). These individuals are seen as people of integrity and spiritual growth, having gathered substantial experience, wisdom, and insight from years of practice. They possess a deep understanding and reverence for Reiki and are dedicated to sharing it with others. They may have glimpses of enlightenment and are capable of guiding and attuning students on their spiritual paths. This distinction underscores why the term 'Master' was never used in Japan, as a 'Shihan' still has a lifetime of learning and practice to pursue.
For those who are truly committed to their own spiritual and healing journey and have a desire to share this incredibly transformative practice, becoming a Reiki Master or Shihan often feels like a calling. It is a deeply fulfilling and personally transformative journey of practice with Reiki.
Here’s why one might choose to become a Reiki Master:
Deepening Personal Healing and Spiritual Growth
Enhanced Self-Healing: As a Reiki Master, you have access to advanced techniques and symbols that can significantly enhance your own healing process. This deepens your connection to the universal life force energy and supports continuous personal and spiritual development (Reiki Australia).
Spiritual Enlightenment: The journey to becoming a Reiki Master is also a spiritual one. It involves profound self-discovery and a heightened sense of inner peace and harmony. This is something one, in Mastery or through completing the highest level of Shinpiden, affirms this lifelong commitment to the practice. It is not that one attains enlightenment once achieving the level of Master or Shihan, but that once attaining that level and title, you are showing that you have a lifelong commitment to this practice and your spiritual growth with a view to attaining enlightenment.
They say that once you become a Shihan (Master), you are a beginner.
Empowering Others through Teaching
Teaching and Mentoring: Becoming a Reiki Master enables you to teach and attune others to Reiki. This is a powerful way to spread the method of self-healing and spiritual growth by empowering others to follow the same path. In this way, teaching Reiki is about sharing the incredible gift of healing and self-actualization and positively impacting others' lives. As a Master/Shihan, you become a guide and mentor, helping students on their own healing and spiritual journeys (ARC Website, Reiki Australia).
Building a Community: As a teacher, you can build and nurture a community of Reiki practitioners, fostering a supportive environment for collective growth and healing. Each Master/Shihan gathers their students and local communities to build these hubs of like-minded people, all on their own journey of healing and spiritual growth. In doing so, they provide continued support and mentoring for others on the same journey.
In Japanese Reiki, at Reiki gatherings, a Master/Shihan offers a special type of attunement to participants to help them continue to open up spiritually, as an additional offer of support on their paths of healing and spiritual growth.
Professional and Therapeutic Practice
Expanded Healing Practice: As a Reiki Master, you can offer more comprehensive healing sessions to clients, using advanced techniques to address more specific aspects of the human condition. Along with the deepening of your own spiritual practice and healing through your daily self-practice over many years, these advanced techniques can also enhance your professional practice.
Personal Fulfillment and Life Purpose
Perhaps this is the greatest motivation of them all for most people who become Reiki Masters/Shihans. For many, becoming a Reiki Master/Shihan comes from a deep calling and sense of their life purpose. It offers them the opportunity to live a life of service, helping others heal and find their own paths to wellness and peace, as well as continuing on their own lifelong spiritual and healing journey. Reiki is not a job or something one does; it is a way of life and a way of being.
Leadership and Influence
Leadership Role: Reiki Masters often take on leadership roles within their communities, organizing events, leading practice groups, and advocating for the benefits of Reiki. It provides an opportunity to offer community support in a much broader way, with wider reach, and to help make Reiki more known and accessible to the wider community, as well as providing extra support and mentorship for fellow Reiki practitioners and students.
As a Reiki Master/Shihan, you have the opportunity to influence and inspire others, making a meaningful impact on their lives and contributing to the greater good.
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What Can A Reiki Master Do?
A Reiki Master/Shihan has completed the highest level of training in Reiki available. Usually, by the time a person has reached this level, having regard to the matters raised above, they will have had years of dedicated self-practice and healing, and many years of practicing Reiki on others. They will have a deep and committed spiritual practice and will have undergone much healing and transformation over that time. Through their many years of dedicated service to clients, they will have deepened their understanding of the energy and the practice. They most likely will have experienced glimpses of enlightenment, and that will have informed and transformed them personally and their spiritual understanding.
And with all this, it can be said that they are equipped with advanced skills and equally with responsibilities. Here are some key abilities and roles that a Reiki Master can undertake:
Healing and Energy Work
Personal Healing: Masters/Shihans continue to deepen their self-healing practices, maintaining their own energetic balance and continually advancing their spiritual growth. This is the foundation of all other work they do and is a lifelong practice and commitment to their own spiritual path and healing. Having a dedicated, daily Reiki self-healing and spiritual practice is essential.
Advanced Healing Techniques: Reiki Masters/Shihans are able to use advanced techniques and symbols for healing which they have learned through their extensive training.
Distance Healing: They can perform Reiki healing over long distances, helping clients who are not physically present (although this can be done after Level II and you are not required to be a Reiki Master/Shihan to do so).
Teaching and Attunement
Teaching Reiki: One of the primary roles of a Reiki Master/Shihan is to share the form and method of Reiki practice, to hand down the practices taught to them by their teacher, and share their own wisdom, knowledge, and experience of the spiritual and healing practice. They guide new students as they embark on their own path.
They can conduct classes for all levels of Reiki, from beginner to advanced, including initiating advanced students as Reiki Masters/Shihans.
Attunements / Reiju: Reiki Masters/Shihans are trained to perform Attunements/Reiju, which is a ritual and process of connecting students to Reiki and opening them up as channels, transferring Reiki energy and knowledge to students said to be innately known to each living being. This is a crucial part of Reiki training that enables students to channel Reiki energy themselves.
Mentorship: They provide mentorship to students, offering guidance, support, and advice throughout their Reiki journey.
Professional Practice: Reiki Therapy for Others
Client Sessions: Reiki Masters/Shihans can offer professional Reiki sessions to clients (although this can be done after Level II and you are not required to be a Reiki Master/Shihan to do so), connecting clients to the healing power of Reiki by placing their hands on the clothed body of the client, allowing the energy to promote healing on a physical, emotional, mental, psychological, and spiritual level.
Community and Leadership
Reiki Masters/Shihans, as leaders and teachers of Reiki, are able to build and lead Reiki communities, often comprising their students and other members of the local Reiki community as well, organizing events, workshops, gatherings, and practice groups to support ongoing learning and practice of students.
Ethical Standards: As embodiments of the Reiki principles and by example through their continued self-healing and spiritual practice, they uphold and promote high ethical standards within the Reiki community, ensuring that practices are conducted with integrity and respect.
Reiki Masters/Shihans continue to develop their personal path of healing and spiritual growth through a lifelong committed daily self-healing and Reiki practice.
Continuous Learning: As Reiki Masters/Shihans are committed to lifelong learning and growth, they will often explore other complementary healing modalities, deepen their spiritual practice, and expand their understanding, even of Reiki itself. A Reiki Master/Teacher, at their core, is committed to a lifelong practice of spiritual development.
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How to draw the Reiki Master Symbol?
This is a common question, often asked by students of Reiki before reaching advanced levels, eager to access what they perceive as a 'stronger' form of energy or the most coveted aspect of Reiki energy. They are keen to jump ahead to a symbol they believe carries deep spiritual significance, likely encouraged by the name given to it by Hawayo Takata, the 'Master symbol'.
The reality is that with technology and online search engines, anyone can find it online. They can learn its name and form, how to draw it, and even read how to use it (though this varies depending on who is writing about it). They don't even need to have learned Reiki at all, let alone be a student of Reiki who can access it before attending the appropriate level of Reiki under the guidance of a Reiki Master/Shihan.
For those curious or perhaps finding this article through their search around this symbol, I invite you explore this a bit more. This opens the door to investigating aspects of spiritual practice and perhaps where you are in your own journey right now.
Why are you wanting to discover it before undertaking the appropriate level of training? Consider perhaps, the attachment or importance you may have already placed on it? This is an opportunity to investigate your beliefs around this symbol. Reiki is a practice of non-attachment, and that includes the symbols. There is deep contemplation available here.
What is it beyond your current practice that you feel you need more of? More than what is already available to you and what you already have? Is something missing in your practice? If so, perhaps you can explore how to deepen your current practice without needing to know the symbol.
I ask these questions with the utmost love in my heart and a desire for you to get everything you possibly can from your practice, including knowing how Reiki, in its own way, continues to teach us about ourselves. There is something to learn from wanting to fast-track the process and bypass the wisdom of the structured and meted levels of learning.
The answer to these questions may also reveal much about your current spiritual growth and where there is more work to do (as we all have work to do in our own ways). There is much you can benefit from by being willing to make these inquiries and turn back to your practice to help guide you. Reiki is an incredible teacher.
And here is a fun fact: the 'Master symbol' was never a symbol in Traditional Japanese Reiki. Mikao Usui never used it, taught it, or mentioned it. Some believe that Hayashi may have used it as an ideal rather than a symbol. They also believe that Takata turned it into a usable symbol at the Master level.
It is crucial to understand that Reiki is not just about symbols; it is a profound journey of personal and spiritual development. Patience, acknowledging that we don't yet know what we don't know, and trusting in the wisdom of the structure of the levels and process of learning and attunement under the guidance of a qualified teacher, ensures that one can harness the full potential of Reiki responsibly and effectively.
By focusing on your current level and engaging deeply with your practice, you can prepare yourself for the advanced stages of Reiki with integrity and readiness. Trust me, it makes a difference through what you do now, to how to receive the teachings ahead of you. One step at a time, and a focus on your present practice and development is the ideal path in this spiritual practice here.
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How to Find the Best Reiki Master
Finding a Reiki Master/Shihan, and moreover, the best Reiki Master for you is an incredibly important task. Your Reiki Master will be your support and guide on your journey with Reiki and continue beyond just the classroom through mentorship and continued learning and support.
I have learned Reiki with many different teachers, and I have witnessed students end their spiritual journey before it has ever truly begun as a result of sub-standard Reiki Teachers. I have also seen people, including myself, absolutely soar beyond what they believed possible as a result of incredible teachers and mentors, Reiki Masters/Shihans who walked the walk.
Unfortunately, just because someone carries the title of Reiki Master or Shihan, doesn't mean you can blindly trust that they have a deep and committed spiritual and healing practice or that they have the experience and personal traits to be a great teacher. Don't be fooled by titles, positions in organizations, or even how long they have been practicing Reiki. You will need to look much deeper beyond these things to find the best Reiki Master/Teacher.
I have written extensively on how to find the best Reiki Practitioner ((here and here) and, more specifically, how to find the Best Reiki Course (here, here and here), which provides detailed guidance. It may interest you to also read about the question of online learning and whether that is a legitimate avenue for learning Reiki.
Based on all the information provided in this article, it may be clear why caution should be exercised with fast-tracked courses that offer Beginner to Master training over a weekend or even a few weekends. Nothing can replace time, experience, and exposure to the practice in order to develop a genuine relationship with Reiki and the necessary wisdom to guide others with integrity and authenticity.
So when it comes to finding the best Reiki Master, you need to start by choosing the system of Reiki you want to learn. After all, this system will contain the practices you will take with you throughout your life (for example, Japanese Reiki or Western Reiki). Once you have chosen the system, you can narrow down your search to find the Teacher who is the best fit for you.
Once you have found the best Reiki course for you, here is a brief summary of finding a Reiki Master/Shihan:
Check Credentials
This is the most basic requirement, and while there is much more to consider beyond this, it is an essential minimum.
Certification: Ensure the Reiki Master/Shihan has proper certification. They should have completed at least the third level of Reiki training, or Level IV in Japanese Reiki.
Experience: Look for someone with ample experience. More years in practice can often mean a deeper understanding and skill set. Find out how many clients they have seen and how often they do their daily practice. Someone may work full-time in a mainstream profession and only see a few Reiki clients a month, despite being a Reiki Master for 15 years. Another person may have worked full-time as a Reiki Practitioner and Teacher for 7 years, seeing dozens of clients a week over that period.
Research and Referrals
Ask for Recommendations: Speak to friends, family, or colleagues who have experience with Reiki. Personal referrals can be invaluable.
Online Search: Use search engines to find Reiki Masters/Shihans in your area. Look for reviews and testimonials, and pay attention to the energy and feelings they convey.
Evaluate Compatibility and Their Experience and Spiritual Practice
Consultation: Schedule an initial consultation or a brief meeting to discuss your needs and see if you feel comfortable with the practitioner. This is your opportunity to ask them about their own practice, their healing and spiritual journey with Reiki, and how Reiki has transformed their lives and the lives of their clients. This helps you gauge the depth of their spiritual practice and their insights into the spiritual aspects and healing potential of Reiki.
Ask for stories about their experiences and those of their clients, as well as their teaching approach and style. Is it by the book, reading through a manual, or is it organic and free-flowing? Do they share their own personal stories throughout the class? These questions will help you assess compatibility.
Energy Connection: Pay attention to how you feel in their presence. A good Reiki Master should make you feel at ease and understood.
I have both followed and ignored this advice along my journey. I pursued teachers who I felt incredibly drawn to and had a deep feeling they could guide and teach me significantly. I also ignored my instincts with other teachers who seemed rigid and needed to be the authority. These teachers tended to dismiss my experiences to assert their authority and didn’t feel encouraging and light but rather negative and heavy, even pessimistic. Those first instincts, in both respects, became more amplified as I moved through the levels.
Some people are born to teach, guide, uplift, and empower, while others are better off focusing on their own healing needs.
I've learned valuable lessons from all my teachers, the so-called good and the so-called bad, so we can always trust in that, but instinct is always right—trust that too!
Understand Their Practice
Methods and Techniques: Ask about their approach to Reiki and the methods they use. Ensure their techniques align with your expectations and comfort level.
Specializations: Some Reiki Masters may specialize in certain areas, such as emotional healing, physical ailments, or spiritual growth. Choose one that aligns with your needs.
Consider Logistics
Location: Find someone conveniently located, whether close to home or work, to make regular sessions feasible.
Session Costs/Course Costs: Understand their fee structure and ensure it fits within your budget. For Reiki courses, while this is an important consideration, if you find the best Reiki course and a teacher you feel aligned with, I encourage you to save for their course rather than opting for something cheaper. This is a lifelong practice you are investing in, and a lifelong relationship of guidance and mentorship with your teacher. It’s worth waiting and saving rather than compromising on a great course and teacher.
Although relating to Level 1 Course Cost, there is some valuable information in this article I wrote about choosing the right course and Reiki teacher, including factors to consider when it comes to the cost of a course. I highly recommend you have a read.
Trust Your Intuition
Gut Feeling: Your intuition plays a crucial role in this process. If something doesn’t feel right, continue your search. I always say, you can never go wrong when you follow your gut!
Positive Energy: A good Reiki Master will leave you feeling positive and uplifted after your interactions. This is more than just their words; it is their energy in general. If they don't have positive energy, move on and keep searching.
I sincerely hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of how to become a Reiki Master/Shihan, what it truly means, and what the journey toward and beyond this level of mastery entails. This path is not just about acquiring a title but embracing a lifelong commitment to personal growth, healing, and the service of others.
Embarking on this journey requires dedication, patience, and a genuine connection to the spiritual and healing aspects of Reiki. It’s about finding the right teacher, immersing yourself in practice, and allowing Reiki to transform your life from within. The rewards are profound, as you will not only deepen your own spiritual and healing abilities but also guide and inspire others on their paths.
I wish you all the best on your Reiki journey and can assure you that you will never look back. Reiki has absolutely transformed my life for the better, as well as the lives of my extraordinary clients and students. Embrace this path with an open heart and mind, and you will discover the incredible potential within yourself and the world around you.
If you have any questions, or want to chat to more about this issue or Reiki in general, please contact me and we can arrange a time to chat. If you would like to book a Reiki session in Melbourne (or distance Reiki worldwide), you can book an appointment here or if you would like to learn Reiki yourself, sign up for Melbourne Reiki courses here. I look forward to connecting with you!
Warmest wishes,
Fiona x
Fiona Phillips
Certified Reiki Shihan (Teacher) and Practitioner
Komyo ReikiDo in Melbourne
Within The Space
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Further Reading and Resources:
For more in-depth information and additional perspectives, explore the following reputable websites and authorities on Reiki:
Australian Reiki Connection - Provides guidelines and resources for Reiki practitioners in Australia.
Reiki Australia - Offers information on Reiki training, standards, and professional development.
International House of Reiki - Whilst being a hybrid between Western and Japanese Reiki, they offer some interesting perspectives about Reiki.
Reiki.org - A global resource for learning about Reiki, its history, and practice.
The Reiki Association - An organization dedicated to supporting Reiki practitioners and promoting high standards of practice.
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