Reiki and Self-Work
Feel, Listen, Take Time. Dare to Connect with Yourself
REIKI AND INNER WORK
«Things are as they are; they don't change,
but you can change the way you see them.
Things are as they are;
they are not at all as they should be.
And yet, everything is perfect.
In the face of this paradox, I am what I am,
but I can choose how to act.»
(Dario Canil, Avrah Ka Dabra - creo quel che dico)
The knowledge of "dragons" and "demons" that our Self reveals simultaneously indicates, to the person who accepts growth, the possibility of undertaking one of the greatest challenges: the work of bringing light to the shadow and darkness. In this work, which is not only a struggle against one's own ghosts but also an opportunity to reveal wonderful things that we have kept hidden, the light of Reiki illuminates the path, gives purpose and direction, and helps us glimpse love, truth, freedom, and wholeness.
Reiki works tirelessly and continuously on a conscious level to make us fully aware of the necessity of self-acceptance, of the global Self. The conflict between the demands of our Ego and those of the authentic Self (which thus finds a powerful ally in Reiki) requires patience and courage: we transform, but we resist transformation.
Our spirit breathes new air, but it must be careful not to have its wings clipped. Our mind is sometimes confused, doubts, believes, discourages, hopes; and our poor body somatizes.
After Reiki attunement, depending on the conflicts and energy blockages a person carries, there may be transitory phenomena, known as "purging," that can last a few hours or manifest multiple times in the days following: slight dizziness, headaches, stomach discomfort, or a slight fever.
Self-treatment and purifying baths in warm water and salt can speed up the transition—facilitated by Reiki—to a higher energetic vibration and a more stable and genuine balance. Naturally, in such a situation, an attitude of open-mindedness and acceptance of transformation is desirable for the Reiki student, as is the discreet, respectful, and clarifying presence of the Reiki Master when needed.
REIKI AS A LIFESTYLE: THE ATTITUDE OF PRESENCE
Reiki is an extraordinary support for self-work, but it is not, strictly speaking, self-work. Simply placing hands on oneself is just a small aspect of Reiki, which we could define as part of "self-care," and it is not enough to be called "self-work." Bringing the Spirit of Reiki into your life, into every breath, into every gesture, is something else entirely... it is truly a great opportunity!
Engage in the Process
Open Up to Change
Be present
Take Care of Your Diet
Maintain Acceptable Work Rhythms
Safeguard Your Sleep
Observe How You Think
Observe How You Act
Know How to Take Space and Time for Yourself
Move Your Body through Physical Exercise
Meditate
Practice Self-Observation *
Seek Help from a Qualified and Capable Person **
All of this can be considered part of self-work.
*SELF-OBSERVATION is a simple act, where facts are recorded without interpreting or judging them. Several times during the day, we can stop for a moment, listen to ourselves, and ask: "How do I feel right now? How am I, really?" Self-observation is limited to the simple recording of facts and has nothing to do with mentally processing them or making judgments.
** For example, a serious Psychotherapist can help clarify aspects of your reality that you cannot address as well on your own. Reiki is a wonderful path that has a heart, but it is only a starting point, just a path... that must be nurtured, like everything else, with Love, Intelligence, and Energy.
«For me, there is only the walking on paths that have heart, on any path that may have heart. There I walk, and the only worthwhile challenge is to traverse its full length. And there I walk looking, looking, breathlessly.»
(Nagual don Juan Matus, Carlos Castaneda, Gli insegnamenti di don Juan)
Table of contents Reiki Levels Section
Original version of this page in italian:
Reiki e lavoro su di sé