Exploring Gassho Meditation

Gassho meditation stands as a cornerstone practice within the realm of Reiki, offering practitioners a profound means of deepening their connection to universal life force energy. Rooted in Japanese tradition, Gassho meditation transcends mere physicality, inviting practitioners into a realm of spiritual alignment, inner peace, and profound healing. Let's embark on a journey through the history, origins, and modern-day applications of Gassho meditation for Reiki practitioners.

Gassho, derived from the Japanese words "gatsu" (together) and "sho" (palms), translates to "palms together." Its roots can be traced back to various spiritual practices in Japan, including Buddhism and martial arts disciplines such as Aikido. The gesture of bringing the hands together in front of the heart center signifies unity, reverence, and respect.

Within the context of Reiki, Gassho meditation holds a special significance. It is believed that Mikao Usui, the founder of Reiki, incorporated Gassho meditation as a fundamental aspect of Reiki practice. Usui himself was deeply influenced by Japanese spirituality and integrated elements of meditation, mindfulness, and energetic healing into the system of Reiki.

In contemporary Reiki practice, Gassho meditation serves multiple purposes, each contributing to the practitioner's spiritual growth and healing journey:

Centering and Grounding: Gassho meditation serves as a powerful tool for centering the mind and grounding the practitioner in the present moment. By bringing the hands together at the heart center, practitioners create a physical anchor for their awareness, facilitating a deep sense of inner peace and tranquility.

Connection to Reiki Energy: Gassho meditation acts as a gateway to connect with the universal life force energy inherent in Reiki. Through the practice of Gassho, practitioners open themselves to receive and channel Reiki energy, promoting healing on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels.

Intention Setting: Gassho meditation provides a sacred space for practitioners to set intentions for their Reiki practice. By holding specific intentions or affirmations in their hearts during Gassho meditation, practitioners align their energy with the healing power of Reiki, amplifying its effectiveness in their sessions.

Self-Healing and Self-Discovery: Gassho meditation is a journey inward, inviting practitioners to explore the depths of their own being. Through regular practice, practitioners cultivate greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and spiritual growth, facilitating profound healing and transformation.

Preparation for Reiki Sessions: Before initiating a Reiki session, practitioners often begin with Gassho meditation to attune themselves to the flow of Reiki energy. By centering themselves in Gassho meditation, practitioners establish a clear and receptive state of mind, ensuring that they serve as pure channels for the healing energy of Reiki.

Gassho Meditation:

Find a comfortable seated position, with your back straight. Bring your hands together in front of your heart center, forming the Gassho mudra. Press your palms gently together, fingertips pointing upward. Feel the energy and warmth between your hands as you create this sacred space.

Close your eyes softly, allowing yourself to relax into the present moment.

Bring your awareness to your breath. Feel the natural rhythm of your inhales and exhales. With each breath, allow yourself to relax more deeply into this space. Now take a few deep breaths in through your nose, and exhale slowly through your mouth. With each inhale, imagine drawing in a sense of calm and peace. With each exhale, release any tension or distractions from your mind and body.

Visualize a radiant light at the center of your heart, glowing with warmth and love. With each breath, allow this light to expand, filling your entire chest with its healing energy.

Silently repeat the Reiki principles to yourself:

"Just for today...

I will not anger.

I will not worry.

I will be grateful.

I will do my work honestly.

I will be kind to every living thing."

Now, visualize a bright light at the center of your chest, representing the universal life force energy of Reiki. With each inhale, imagine this light expanding and growing brighter, filling your entire body with its healing energy.

On each exhale, visualize this light flowing out through your hands, sending healing energy to yourself, to others, and to the world around you. Trust in the power of Reiki to bring balance, harmony, and healing wherever it is needed.

Take a moment to reflect on something you're grateful for in your life. It could be a person, a place, a memory, or simply the gift of being alive. Feel the warmth of gratitude spreading throughout your body, filling you with a sense of abundance and joy.

Take a few deep breaths, allowing yourself to fully integrate the benefits of this meditation. When you feel ready, slowly open your eyes and return to the present moment, carrying the peace and healing energy of Reiki with you.

In the tapestry of Reiki practice, Gassho meditation shines as a jewel of spiritual wisdom and healing potential. Its roots in Japanese tradition, coupled with its modern-day applications for Reiki practitioners, make it an indispensable tool for those on the path of healing and self-discovery. As practitioners continue to delve into the depths of Gassho meditation, they unlock the profound mysteries of the universe and awaken to the infinite possibilities that lie within.

In the sacred space of Gassho meditation, Reiki practitioners find solace, renewal, and transformation—a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit and its inherent connection to the divine.

The claims in this article are based on my own personal research and experience as a meditation and Reiki practitioner and teacher, and are in no way meant to be taken as medical advice. Always consult a medical professional for medical advice and care.

Priestess Ganesa

HolisticXpressions