Reiki is a beautiful, gentle system of energy healing that
connects us to the Universal Life Force. For many practitioners and recipients,
the most profound experiences occur when they are truly "in the flow"
– a state of effortless connection where the energy moves freely, guided by its
own inherent wisdom.
But what exactly is the Reiki Flow, and how
do you access it? It's less about doing and more about allowing.
It's about stepping aside and letting the energy work through you,
rather than trying to make it work. Think of yourself as a
clear pipe or a riverbed, allowing the clean, vital water (Reiki energy) to
pass through unhindered.
Getting into this state of flow deepens your practice,
enhances treatments (whether for yourself or others), and brings a sense of
peace and surrender that extends beyond the healing session. Here's how to
cultivate it:
1. Lay the Foundation: Attunement and Self-Practice
- Get
Attuned: The Reiki attunement process, given by a qualified Reiki
Master, is the essential first step. It opens your energy channels and
connects you to the Reiki source, making the flow possible.
- Practice
Self-Reiki Regularly: This is non-negotiable. Consistent
self-treatment is the most powerful way to clear your own channels, build
your connection to the energy, and experience the flow within yourself.
The more you practice on yourself, the easier it is to channel the energy
for others.
2. Cultivate the Right Mindset
- Set
a Simple, Pure Intention: Before starting, simply intend to
connect to the Reiki energy for the highest good – for healing, balance,
or whatever is needed. Keep the intention light and open, not rigid.
- Surrender
and Trust: This is perhaps the most crucial
element. Let go of the need to control the energy, the outcome, or the
experience. Trust that the Reiki energy is intelligent and knows exactly
where to go and what to do. Your job is simply to allow.
Release expectations about what you should feel or what
the recipient should experience.
- Be
Present: Bring your awareness to the present moment. Focus on
your breath, the sensations in your hands, or the simple act of being. Let
go of distracting thoughts about the past or future. Mindfulness is a key
ally in accessing the flow.
- Detach
from Outcome: Once you've set your intention, release attachment
to specific results. The energy will work as it needs to, not necessarily
as your mind thinks it should.
3. Prepare Your Space and Yourself
- Create
a Calm Environment: Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you
won't be disturbed. The goal is relaxation for both giver and receiver
(including yourself).
- Ground
and Center Yourself: Before beginning, take a few moments to
connect with the earth (grounding) and your own inner core (centering).
This helps you feel stable, present, and connected to yourself before
connecting to the universal energy.
- Take
a Few Deep Breaths: Simple deep breathing helps calm the nervous
system and brings you into the present moment.
- Set
a Clear Intention: Even a simple mental statement like “I am a
clear and open channel for Reiki” can align your mind and energy.
- Clear
Your Energy Field: Shake out your hands before and after the session.
Use dry brushing motions or imagine a gentle breeze sweeping away
energetic residue.
4. During the Session (Self or Other)
- Invite
the Energy: Simply think or say something like, "I now
connect with the Reiki energy," or "Reiki on."
- Start
With the Tanden (Hara): Place your hands just below your navel (lower
abdomen) to activate your tanden or hara—your energetic center in Japanese
traditions. This grounds you and stabilizes your energy before
expanding to others.
- Get
Out of the Way: Place your hands gently on the intended points.
Then, consciously step back. Don't try to push, pull, or direct
the energy with your will. Just feel it and allow it
to move through you.
- Relax
Your Body: Release tension in your shoulders, jaw, and hands.
Physical tension can impede the flow.
- Observe
Without Judgment: Pay attention to any sensations that arise – heat,
coolness, tingling, vibrations, or even thoughts or emotions. Simply
observe them without analyzing, labeling, or trying to change them. They
are often signs that the energy is moving.
- Focus
on Your Hands (Gently): Feel the energy passing through your hands.
This simple awareness helps maintain the connection.
- Use Breath as an Anchor: Deep,
slow breathing helps you stay present and attuned to the energy’s
movement.
- Follow Intuition: If you
feel drawn to a certain area or your hands move on their own, let it
happen. This is often Reiki guiding you.
- Use the Reiki Symbols (if attuned):
Especially the Cho Ku Rei (Power) symbol to start a session and increase
flow.
- Chant or Silently Repeat Mantras:
Repeating “Reiki” or a personal mantra can help focus your mind and
strengthen the connection.
- Visualize the Energy (Optional): Imagine
light flowing from the universe through your crown, out your hands, and
into the recipient (or yourself).
- Use
Vocal Toning or Humming (Optional): Gently humming (especially with
heart or throat chakra work) helps move energy and keep your awareness in
your body. Try a soft “mmm” sound while your hands are on your
chest or head.
5. Integrate and Maintain the Flow
- Give Thanks: Express
gratitude for the Reiki energy—it strengthens your connection over time.
- Allow
Time for Integration: After a session, give yourself and/or the
recipient time to rest and integrate the energy.
- Drink
Water: This helps the body process and release whatever has
shifted.
- Live
the Reiki Principles (The Gokai): Applying the five Reiki
principles daily (Just for today: I will not be angry, I will not worry, I
will be grateful, I will do my work honestly, I will be kind to every
living thing) cultivates a state of being that is naturally more open and
receptive to the flow of positive energy.
- Prioritize
Self-Care: Ensure you are getting enough rest, nourishment, and
joyful activities. A balanced life supports a clearer channel.
Getting in the Reiki Flow is an ongoing journey of practice,
trust, and surrender. It's not about achieving a mystical high, but about
finding a state of natural connection and allowance. By focusing on becoming a
clear, open conduit, you allow the powerful, intelligent Universal Life Force
to work its magic, bringing deeper healing and peace to yourself and others.
Just relax, let go, and let the energy flow.
