Gifting Using the Spirit of Reiki

I think that for many of us, the idea of gifting this holiday season comes second to actually being able to physically enjoy the company of our loved ones. To give someone a hug or to be able to hold another’s hand might feel like an experience last felt all too long ago. Thankfully we have technology and a virtual presence but it is only comforting to a certain extent. Many of us are feeling lonely but we find solace in memories and look forward to making more with the people we love when it is safe to do so once again. In the mean time we manage the best way we know how while sending our loving thoughts and vibrations to those who are afar.

My previous sentence, “sending our loving thoughts and vibrations to those who are afar” is the basis of this article and the prompt for my gift giving guide. The human mind is a very complex yet powerful thing. Think about it for a moment: everything that we do starts with a thought. It is said that we create our reality based off what we are continuously thinking about. I am sure you have heard at least once in your life to only think positive thoughts and to not focus on negativity. Thoughts are energy which manifest into existence whether good or bad so it is extremely important to self-assess these points and never give control to doubt. Any type of healing comes from a place of love so do remember to start first by loving yourself. Let us take a look now at my chosen method of healing and how to incorporate it into your life and gift it others.

One of the most ancient healing techniques known to mankind is Reiki. Derived from two Japanese symbols, rei and Ki (pronounced “ray key”); Reiki means” universal life energy.” Although the story origin of reiki begins in the 1800’s in Japan with a Buddhist named Mikao Usai, it is important to note that the story actually spans almost all written records of humanity. Not all appropriate information has been translated into English or put into print in any language. Before written records, information is obtained through channeling and thought to be theoretical. Reiki has been evolving and changing over time with the thought that some of the ancient wisdom is permanently lost.

Reiki is not a religion but the healing art of “lying on of hands”. It is a natural and simple method operating on the concept that there is an unlimited supply of Universal Life Energy available for us to tap into. The giver is used as a channel to conduct the Universal Life Energy resulting in a simultaneous charge and strengthening. No personal energy is drained from the giver. Reiki helps to restore and strengthen a person’s life force no matter what the individual’s need is. Any person, animal or plant that is in need can be helped by Reiki treatments whether through” laying on of hands “or distance healing.

The difference between Reiki and all other healing methods is that a Reiki practitioner goes through a process of “energy attunements.” These are also known as “transmissions” or” initiations” and given by a Reiki Master/ Teacher. The number of attunements received depends on what level of Reiki a person is training for; first degree (Shoden), second degree (Okuden) and third degree (Shinpiden). The initiations or attunements are not healings yet rather a simple ceremony in which the Reiki Master is creating another healer. During an attunement there is a transmission of energy, opening ones inner healing channel through the top of the head. The energy flows through the upper energy centers and out through the hands for use in future treatments. Each attunement releases blockages setting toxins free. The vibratory rate of the body is amplified triggering a 21 day cleansing period which occurs as a result of negative patterns and blocks being sloughed off due to the quickening of a person’s energy pattern.

Some people will study and practice Reiki without attunements but it is not the same as the attunement with the Usai Reiki method. We all have Reiki (Universal Life Force Energy) as it is our birthright. Anyone can lay hands on another person and help accelerate the healing process by transferring magnetic energy. An attuned person, however, receives an ancient technology for fine tuning physical and etheric bodies to a higher level. There are plenty of books and online information offering a “how to” process in self-guided initiation or attunement but I do not know how effective these are and urge seeking a Reiki Master/ Teacher if this is of personal interest.

Although personally I feel strongly about receiving proper training for Reiki using the Usai Method, there are essentially different variations. The basic idea of Reiki is that the energy is free and waiting to be used by anyone. Healing with Reiki is about healing oneself first before being supportive for others. Self-healing is vital and helps to release stress as well as strengthen powers of resistance to illness. When done correctly, there is a simultaneous flow of healing energy between giver and receiver. The giver is recharged and not depleted of energy during a session.

Introduction to chakras

For anyone that is interested in any type of healing, I recommend learning about chakras. The word chakra is a Sanskrit word meaning “spinning disk or wheel”. The chakra system originated in India between 1500 and 500 in the oldest text called the Vedas. On the human body a chakra is a spinning disk running along the spine. There are 7 main chakras that run along the spine and each chakra’s health is directly connected to the health of the physical body, mind and overall emotional well-being of a person.

What are the 7 main chakras?

1. Root Chakra. The root chakra or Muladhara is located at the bottom of your spine. It is responsible for your sense of stability and security; helping you feel grounded.

2. Sacral Chakra. The sacral chakra or Svadhisthana is located just below your belly button. This chakra is responsible for your creative and sexual energy helping you to relate to your emotions as well as the emotions of others.

3. Solar Plexus Chakra. The solar plexus or Manipura is located in your stomach area. It is responsible for your confidence and self-esteem helping you feel control in your life

4. Heart Chakra. The heart chakra or Anahata is located in the center of your chest near your heart. This chakra is all about your ability to love and show compassion.

5. Throat Chakra. The throat chakra or Vishuddha is located in your throat. This chakra has to do with your ability to verbally communicate.

6. Third eye Chakra. The third eye chakra or Ajna is located between your eyes. This chakra is linked to your intuition and imagination.

7. Crown Chakra. The crown chakra or Sashasrara is located on the top of your head. This chakra play a role in your life purpose and is responsible for your spiritual connection to yourself, others and the universe.

As you can see from the picture above, each chakra point has a corresponding color. When chakras are clear and open a continuous flow of energy runs along the spine. If one or more chakras become blocked, however, this causes an imbalance within the body. If left untreated a physical breakdown occurs and the corresponding gland is affected. This can lead to what is called “dis- ease” instead of disease and why chakra balance is important for the overall health of our bodies. Here are the chakras and their corresponding negative emotions when a blockage has taken place.

1. Root Chakra. Impatience, anger, revenge, sexual obsession, violence

2. Sacral Chakra. Lack of emotional warmth, materialism, sluggishness

3. Solar Plexus. Chakra. Laziness, criticism, cowardice, choosiness

4. Heart Chakra. Jealousy, insecurity, envy, possessiveness

5. Throat Chakra. Depression, isolation, inability to communicate and accept change

6. Third Eye Chakra. Superstition, fear, inability to live in the moment

7. Crown Chakra. Arrogance, conceit, power hunger, need to control

You will often find the topic of chakras when reading text about Reiki. Though both are ancient practices it is important to note that both come from different regions of the world and mean different things. In simplest terms: Reiki is Universal Life Force Energy and Chakras are the energy centers within the body. I find it quite interesting how the pair relates to one another as the practices originate in different places. It makes one think about the theory that all living thing are connected with a bit more optimism.

Healing with Crystals

The origin of healing with crystals is tied to Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, India, Ancient Greece or Ancient Rome. The historical documentations of crystals originated from Ancient Sumerians (c. 4500- c. 2000 BC). As far back as 400 BC there are writings observing the powers different crystals emit. The word “crystal “is derived from the Greek word “Krystallos” and translates to “ice”.

Ancient Egyptians mined for crystals to make jewelry. Gemstones or crystals were used for aids in health and protection. The Egyptians wore amulets as an assurance of well-being. They were placed on the body in the forms of stones, piercings, rings and necklaces. Believing gemstones protected the deceased in the afterlife, they would bury their dead with a Lapis Lazuli scarab.

Crystals have been used in many cultures all throughout history. In Medieval and modern early Europe, gemstones were believed to hold medicinal properties as well as other special powers. In the Middle Ages rose quartz was used to make healing potions. Native Americans have used crystals for centuries and have orally passed down their traditions. Two important things associated for them with handling crystals are respect and meditation. In Tibet crystals are used in meditation as malas (prayer beads) and many people in Indian culture use crystals when medical attention is unattainable or does not work.

In the western world crystals have become popular with the new age movement. They are used on alters, during meditation, chakra therapy and carried as a token of protection and good luck. Just like Reiki and chakras, crystals are an ancient topic with discrepancies regarding the translation to modern day text. It is thought that the contemporary yogis have yet much to learn with tapping into the full potential of any of the above.

Personally, I have used crystals since I was first introduced to them at the age of 18. I use them during meditation and along with chakra healing. Interestingly, my 2 cats are captivated by my crystals and my male cat always takes my Rose Quartz when I have them out. It is believed that plants and animals are sensitive to gemstone energy and crystals are mentioned in text about Reiki just as chakras are. Are you beginning to see how these different healing principles connect?

I have given a brief overview of Reiki, chakras and crystals above to demonstrate not only different healing methods but the importance of utilizing the Universal Life Force that lies within us all. Sharing this wonderful energy with others is not only a beautiful sentiment but also shows how all living beings can connect to each other. What this planet needs more than anything else at this time is more positive healing energy. I hope the following gift ideas based on loving vibrations will be tokens of love and healing for your immediate family, friends and loved ones alike.

I absolutely love this mug! The 5 guiding principles of Reiki are printed on it as loving reminders while enjoying that first morning cup of coffee.

Above are 2 beautiful gemstone bracelet choices. I always wear gemstone jewelry so I might be snagging one of these for myself.

Don't forget your four legged friends. Animals are very sensitive to crystals. As I previously mentioned, my cat takes my Rose Quartz whenever he gets the chance.

Give the gift of spiritual bath needs. This a great way to kick back relax and clear negative energy.

I wish everyone a very happy holiday season and better healing energy. Take the needed time to create a more positive outlook after a year filled with so much sadness. Focus on the future, a brand new year and moving forward with the Universal Life Energy we all are blessed with. Always share this energy with those you love whether close at hand or miles away. Remember positivity energy begins with a positive thought. Concentrate on these higher vibrations and always send them to those who are in your heart!