Can I “Do” Reiki if I have never taken a Reiki course?

Reiki, or “Rei Ki”, literally means the universal life force that flows through all creation. The energy of Reiki is free for all. Taking a course from a certified teacher will better attune you to the energy of Reiki and I highly recommend that you learn how to use Reiki from a reputable teacher. However, anyone can become aware of Reiki and use this simple Reiki technique to calm mental anxiety or stress.

How Do I use Reiki to Calm Anxiety?

Here is a simple technique that you can do anywhere for a few minutes to feel the calming benefits of Reiki.

• Put yourself in a comfortable position and close your eyes.
• Slowly breathe in until your lungs are full.
• Slowly release your breath.
• Say the words “I invite Reiki”, either silently or out loud.

As you continue to breathe at your normal pace, imagine that you are breathing in a warm white healing light. Every time you breathe in the light, imagine that it is filling your body with the healing energy of Reiki. As you release each breath, imagine any stress or dis-ease in your body leaving with the exhaled breath. If anxious thoughts come into your mind, simply imagine Reiki gently dissolving the thoughts.

This technique can be used at any time, anywhere. Even two or three minutes will offer benefits, but the longer you have the better. Right before bedtime or first thing in the morning are perfect times for Reiki.

For Reiki Practicioners

If you are a Reiki practitioner, you can teach this simple Reiki technique to your clients, friends, or family. The simple act of inviting Reiki can be very powerful, even for people who have never received an attunement. You can also give them a Reiki infused crystal or Teddy bear to help them with self-healing.

For Those New to Reiki

If this is your first experiment with Reiki, and you feel a sense of warmth and calm from the technique, then I would encourage you to seek out a Reiki teacher.

Reiki teachers offer Reiki in 3 degrees; Reiki I, Reiki II, and Reiki III (Master Training). Your Reiki teacher will give you an attunement or ignition, depending on the style of Reiki, which will help you align with the Reiki energy.

If you tried the technique and did not feel anything, be patient. Sometimes it can take a little longer than expected to feel the benefits of Reiki. It may take an hour, a day, or a week, but you will notice the change eventually.