Energy Technique Toolbox: Tip 3

CLEANSING YOUR AURA
Your aura, or energy field, surrounds you and protects you. Your vitality and wellbeing depend on maintaining a healthy aura. Every emotion or thought we experience is reflected in some way in the energy field. The food and drink we choose, any drugs, medicinal or otherwise, our environment, all have an effect on the aura.

To keep the aura in great shape we need to make wise choices about our lifestyle, but most of us will benefit from a cleansing regime too. Fortunately there are many, varied ways to do this, and some are a lot of fun!

One step we should all take if possible is to get outdoors more often. Outside, even in cities, the air is less contaminated than inside our homes. It is best if you can get in touch with nature, in a garden or park if you can’t get into the country. The most cleansing places are woodlands, hilltops and by the seashore. There is a different quality to the air, which science attributes to negative ions, that invigorates and cleanses your aura. You also feel more inclined to breathe fully and deeply- very refreshing for your whole system.

Negative ions are odorless, tasteless, and invisible molecules that we inhale in abundance in certain environments. Think mountains, waterfalls, and beaches. "Ions are molecules that have gained or lost an electrical charge. They are created in nature as air molecules break apart due to sunlight, radiation, and moving air and water. You may have experienced the power of negative ions when you last set foot on the beach or walked beneath a waterfall...The air circulating in the mountains and the beach is said to contain tens of thousands of negative ions -- Much more than the average home or office building, which contain dozens or hundreds, and many register a flat zero.

"The action of the pounding surf creates negative air ions and we also see it immediately after spring thunderstorms when people report lightened moods," says ion researcher Michael Terman, PhD, of Columbia University in New York.

Small (ingestible) negative ions of oxygen are found in invigorating environments such as near waterfalls, pine forests, or on the seashore where waves are breaking on the rocks. They are generally produced by the action of cosmic rays, lightning and radon from the earth's crust. There are approximately 4000 small negative ions per cubic centimeter of air in these environments.

I love to walk at the wooded park near my home. The energies of the trees are very soothing and as I walk I feel energized by the depth and beauty of the various trees that fill the park. I feel like any negativity is carried away harmlessly by the breeze. I also feel it is a great place to connect to the Divine.

What if time or physical restraints prevent you from getting to the great outdoors? One quick cleansing trick, which I often use between healing clients is misting my aura with a vibrational essence. You can buy various aura cleansing sprays ready made, or if you already have essences you can add a few drops to spring water in a bottle with a fine spray top. If you dowse you can choose the most cleansing combination for your own personal use. A few sprays above your head will gently drift down through your aura, taking any negativity with it. Check any of the aromatherapy websites and they will list theproperties of each individual essential oil making it easy for you to determine what will best suit your needs.

Smudging is a traditional way to remove negative energies from the aura. Smudgesticks based on sweetgrass or white sage work well. Light the stick and then take the smoke through your aura, carefully keeping the lit end away from skin, clothing and hair, it is good to keep a feather especially for this purpose. It is nice to get a friend to smudge your back for you. Observe all the usual fire safety precautions and make sure you stub the stick out well!

When I’m healing I use various crystal techniques for cleansing the aura. One of the easiest to try on yourself is the ‘selenite sweep’. Take a selenite crystal, a wand shape feels good, and smooth it through your aura with the intention that it takes any negative energies with it. I usually work in strokes downwards from head to toe, but use your intuition as a guide.

After working with a client, be sure to wash your hands with cold water, this helps in clearing their energy from you as well as making sure you are disconnected from any energetic cords created during the session.These are only a few examples of ways to clear your auric field. Investigate and explore the various techniques to see which ones resonate the best with you. The important thing is to keep the awareness that your aura needs to be maintained in order for you to remain healthy.

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Energy Technique Toolbox Tip 2

GROUNDING PRACTICES

"Now and again, it is necessary to seclude yourself among deep mountains and hidden valleys to restore your link to the source of life. Breathe in and let yourself soar to the ends of the universe; breathe out and bring the cosmos back inside. Next, breathe up all fecundity and vibrancy of the earth. Finally, blend the breath of heaven and the breath of earth with your own, becoming the Breath of Life itself."-- Morihei Ueshiba, founder of Aikido

Here are several things you can do to tune up your energy body and harmonize your chakra , aura and whole self. Physical , emotional, mental, spiritual grounding and centering are very basic core practices in most system of spiritual practice or personal development. These practices promote increased personal happiness and spiritual health.

GROUNDING
Any time you feel spacy or disoriented it is a good idea to ground and center yourself. The first step in many spiritual practices is to learn to ground, that is to connect yourself energetically to the core of the Earth. Even when you wish to astral travel or meditate you will find that from the beginning being grounded will help you with inner focus.

Whatever your beliefs are, this simple practice can make a huge difference in your life. There are many techniques for grounding and it is wise to look for those that work best for you. The essence of most methods is to relax and visualize yourself sending an energy cord or light beam into the earth from your root chakra (at the tailbone) and allowing it to reach the earth core allowing you to get energy from the Earth and return excess energy down the cord.

The energy you send down the cord that is not your own is cleansed and used by the earth. Your own energy is cleansed and returned to you. There are spirit beings that thrive on clearing negative energy. A classic form of grounding is to imagine roots growing into the Earth from your feet and spinal column or central energy channel. Some traditions strongly prefer that you ground from the spinal center and not from the feet. My personal preference is to ground from the feet, but it is an individual choice how to go about it.

Peggy Jentoft: "I often use a specific shakti or subtle energy frequency for grounding, essentially simply commanding grounding into the earth plane and also connection with the universal Spirit core (universal galactic center or seed, throne of God etc.)You can run Reiki or another energy shakti with the intention that it ground you or assist you with grounding. Some energies work better than others for this purpose.

The visualization I most often use, when I use one, starts with dropping a cord of light from the heart, and or solar plexus, straight down the spinal channel to the center of the Earth. Or calling up a cord from the Earth center, which some people find easier, and then flowing it up to the spiritual center (sometimes going through the Sun). I then expand it to be a tube, encompassing my entire basic aura. Eating, stomping your feet, placing your hands on your thighs and intending to ground are some other methods there are dozens of different techniques and meditations for grounding and centering because these practices are a vital part of our personal well being."

When doing energy work with others, it is essential to ground both yourself as the practitioner, and the individual you are working with, this must be done at the very beginning of the session. It will eliminate some possible unpleasant sensations that can interrupt the progress of a healing experience. I have found this to be particularly important for those who are energy sensitive as well as those who are new to energy work. Remember, preparation is the cornerstone of good practice. Check back later for additional preparation information in the areas of centering and clearing.

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Preparing for an Energy Session

WORKING WITH OTHERS
"Well I just completed a Reiki Level I class, I'm on fire! I'm ready to go out and save the world!" Have you come across a few of these people? Ok, maybe not so many, or such an extreme example. But this is exactly the type of person I really worry about. And I hope you'll stick with me as I tell you why.

The first thing that comes to mind is-- this individual has missed the most important point of taking a Reiki class- and that is to work on yourself first. There is that old adage about the plumber who has the house with the leaky faucets. Well this applies across many disciplines, but it is rampant in the Service oriented fields. Especially those in the profession of helping others such as nurses, healers, and alternative care practitioners. This often sends a big red flag up for me...wondering, what is this person REALLY up to? Many times, with a bit of exploration it is easy to determine that the care taker caretakes to avoid taking care of him or her self. Rule #1, if I don't take care of myself first, then I am of no real benefit to others.

By working on ourselves with the Reiki energy, we get very connected to our own healing process. This is the process of self-discovery. What we learn is invaluable. What we learn is inspiring. What we learn is real. It is much easier to help someone on their journey, when we have a good understanding, because we are there too.

Rule #2: the only person I can heal is ME! End of story. It is not in anyone else's power to truly heal me. I need to take responsibility and do what needs to be done to reach the place of healing. Now, I 'm not suggesting this is a solo flight. By the contrary, the plane is boarded, the seats are filled with those assisting me, but I am the pilot of the plane. It is more empowering when we take personal responsibility for the direction we go. It can be difficult to sift through the miles of information, well meaning advice and suggestions offered by both professionals and friends when we are facing a health challenge. Listen to your heart, it will give you an indication of the correct direction to proceed. Remember we are each a unique individual with varying abilities and gifts. We are also in various places in regard to our emotions, our mental processes, our physical circumstances and our spiritual unfoldment. All these factors will influence the best decision for our uniqueness. Don't settle for the cookie cutter approach to healing.

When I am working with a client for the first time, I make sure to let them know about Rule #2. If they expect me to heal them, it is best we not proceed. If they are looking for someone to help them facilitate a process they are interested in beginning to explore, well, that I can do. Before going any further I tell that what a Reiki session is like, what may or may not occur as the body begins to rebalance, (see an earlier post, Detecting an Energy Shift, for more information), and then let them know we will spend some time processing the session, once complete.

As a practitioner, it is essential to prepare before a session. It is a good practice to give yourself a short personal reiki treatment if you have the time. If you have been giving yourself regular self-reiki, you are in a better position to help someone else. Remember, Reiki goes to where it needs to go, but will stop along the way to rebalance areas of energetic congestion. If you are in need of reiki, the energy will take care of you first, before going to the client.

At the opening of the session, I like to state that I am a clear and open channel to receive the reiki energy, and this session is for XXX's highest good and the highest good of all. Even though I have been doing reiki for a number of years, using this opening practice helps me to focus on my role, and becomes a reminder. I am not healing the client. I am not using my own energy. I am the vessel through which source energy flows.

The next step is to ground myself. There are a number of ways this can be done. (See post on grounding that covers some of the different techniques.) After I am finished preparing myself, I prepare the client by taking them through a guided visualization that I create specifically for them. It begins with a focused breathing exercise, followed by some progressive relaxation. They are then asked to focus on their crown (7th) chakra, to open and expand this area, with more conscious awareness of the energy they are bringing in, this is following by a grounding technique I use to anchor or ground them into the session. The grounding provides energetic support, and allows for the release or intake of energies.

Once they are grounded, I then proceed with a guided visualization that will help the client become actively engaged in their own healing process. For me, at this point, I also just become the channel. I don't have a prepared script for a visualization. I ask that the words be given to me to know what would be best for this particular individual, and I allow the process to proceed.

From the very start with the focused breathing though the guided visualization, it takes about half of the session. The remainder of the time, I just do reiki without speaking.

As the session proceeds, I may or may not receive intuitive information for the client, which will be shared later on. Sometimes as they are doing their work, an energy release occurs that is quite strong. That release may go through them or may come through me. When the release comes through me as a practitioner, on occasion I will experience pain in a particular part of my body, such as my hands all the way up to my wrists. If this occurs, I will just remove my hands, shake them out vigorously, then state emphatically, " this does not belong to me, you are free to go". Within a few seconds, the pain is gone. I have found that I do not get this particular experience much any more. More frequently, I will have a gentler release, such as one eye tearing for the duration of the session. This can begin as soon as I make contact with the client in the session, and last until my hands are removed at the end. Another release that occurs through me is what I can only describe as a very strong itch deep in my throat, generally on only one side, which can be either the right or left. The only way I can release this is to actually leave the room, and cough it out very strongly. It will then leave and not return. A gentle clearing of the throat will not do it.

Each practitioner will experience different ways that energy is released. Some may never experience the release of another's energy through themselves. The important thing is to be aware of what can happen, so you know best how to deal with or understand the situation. Do a quick body scan before working on another person. If you feel great, with no aches or pains, before a session, and suddenly you are experiencing sensations in your body, it may very well be a result of energy shifting. Knowing this can help you to assist the release work, especially so it does not linger inside your energy field.

There are times when I am giving reiki and suddenly, a part of my body begins to ache, say for example- my third eye. I have learned when this happens, to move my hands to that area on the client. If it was a energy direction being given to me, in a matter of seconds, the ache disappears. Watch for signs you may be given. Learn to interpret them. As you work with the reiki energy, you will be taught many things. Be open to receive. Be grateful for the opportunities that present themselves, and constantly be aware we live in a world that is in constant motion, moving and evolving.

To conclude a session, I once again speak to the client. Any areas which were opened, are closed down. I help bring them back to the present. Their auric field is balanced and I reassess the energy of each chakra which was checked prior to beginning the session. This allow them to see what changes have occurred. We discuss the session, from both the client's and practitioner's perspective. I may ask some questions or make some suggestions to them that would allow the energy of the session to continue for a more extended period of time. They are reminded the stage is set and the real work is about to begin.

Once the client leaves, the practitioner needs to clear and disconnect from the energy of the session. Washing your hands in cold water is the best technique I have found. Shaking your hands works too. Brushing off your energy field--down the arms, and across the shoulders is also very helpful. The better you prepare yourself and your client for the session, the better off both will be. They will be ready to take the lead role, as should be the case, and you as the practitioner, can help facilitate without taking on the challenges of the client in an unhealthy way.


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Visited By An Angel

REIKI STORY
Many of you who have been in my classes have heard me tell the reiki story of the evening that my daughter Jenna had her accident on the swing at our house.

Just to recap for those unfamiliar: A ladder had fallen on her causing her to receive 2 layers of stitches above the eyebrow, as well as having a number of facial bruises, and injury to her shoulder and arm. On the way to the hospital both her and I Reikied her injuries, as well as having her take Arnica, a homeopathic remedy in a small amount of water.

Her healing was unbelievable, within 2 days there was literally very little indication that an accident had occurred other than the stiches. So, anyway as I was tucking my daughter Jenna into bed after returning from giving the presentation at Grand View Hospital, I mentioned to her that I told the Reiki story about her accident at the swing set...although I always tend to mention this experience in talks, I have never mentioned it to Jenna that I do so...she took me off guard with her response that I would like to share with you, that just makes it even more of a miracle...

She said to me: "Mom, I have never mentioned this to anyone about that nite, but I think I was visited by an angel." I asked her what she meant...She said, "that ladder was too heavy and I couldn't lift it off of me, I thought I was going to die or at least get knocked out and I would lay there bleeding until someone found me, then the ladder lifted off of me without me doing anything and I was able to get free". It sent chills through me to hear her say this!

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12 Symptoms of Awakening

PREPARING FOR THE NEW EARTH
Below is a listing of some of the symptoms associated with Awakening or Ascension or whatever terms that you are familiar with that discuss this spiritual process of evolution taking place on earth right now. Read through the list, they may help you to put your expereinces in perspective as you make the transition to a higher vibrating energy.


Body Aches, and Pains, Especially in the Neck, Shoulder and Back
This is the result of intense changes at your DNA level as the “Christ seed” awakens within. This too shall pass.

Feelings of Deep Inner Sadness for No Apparent Reason
You are releasing your past and this causes the feeling of sadness. This is similar to the experience of moving from a house where you lived for many, many years into a new house. As much as you want to move into a new house, there is a sadness of leaving behind the memories, energy, and experiences of the old house. This too shall pass.

Crying for No Apparent Reason
Similar to the above. It’s good and healthy to let the tears flow. It helps to release the old energy within. This too shall pass.

Sudden Change in Job or Career
A very common symptom. As you change, things around you will change as well. Don’t worry about finding the “perfect” job or career right now. This too shall pass. You’re in transition and you may make several job changes before you settle into one that fits your passion.

Withdrawal from Family Relationships
You are connected to your biological family via old karma. When you get off the karmic cycle, the bonds of the old relationships are released. It will appear as though you are drifting away from your family and friends. This too shall pass. After a period of time, you may develop a new relationship with them if it is appropriate. However, the relationship will be based in the new energy without the karmic attachments.

Unusual Sleep Patterns
It’s likely that you’ll awaken many nights between 2:00 and 4:00 am. There’s a lot of work going on within you, and it often causes you to wake up for a breather. Not to worry. If you can’t go back to sleep, get up and do something rather than lay in bed and worry about humanly things. This too shall pass.

Intense Dreams
These might include war and battle dreams, chase dreams or monster dreams. You are literally releasing the old energy within, and these energies of the past ore often symbolized as wars, running to escape, and boogiemen. This too shall pass.

Physical Disorientation
At times you’ll feel very ungrounded. You’ll be “spatially challenged” with the feeling like you can’t put tow feet on the ground, or that you’re walking between tow worlds. As your consciousness transitions into the new energy, your body sometimes lags behind. Spend more time in nature to help ground the new energy within. This too shall pass.

Increased “Self-Talk”
You’ll find yourself talking to your Self more often. You’ll suddenly realize you’ve been chattering away with yourself for the past 30 minutes. There is a new level of communication taking place within your being, and you’re experiencing the tip of the iceberg with the self-talk. The conversations will increase, and they will become more fluid, more coherent and more insightful. You’re not going crazy, you’re just Shaumbra moving into the new energy.

Feelings of Loneliness, Even When in the Company of Others
You may feel alone and removed from others. You may feel the desire to “flee” groups and crowds. As Shumbra, you are walking a sacred and lonely path. As much as the feelings of loneliness cause you anxiety, it is difficult to relate to others at this time. The feelings of loneliness are also associated with the fact that your Guides have departed. They have been with you on all of your journeys in all of your lifetimes. It was time for them to back away so you could fill your space with your own divinity. This too shall pass. The void within will be filled with the love and energy of your own Christ consciousness.

Loss of Passion
You may feel totally disimpassioned, with little or no desire to do anything. That’s OK, and it’s just part of the process. Take this time to “do no-thing” Don’t fight yourself on this, because this too shall pass. It’s similar to rebooting a computer. You need to shut down for a brief period of time in order to load the sophisticated new software, or in this case the new Christ-seed energy.

A Deep Longing to Go Home
This is perhaps the most difficult and challenging of any of the conditions. You may experience a deep and overwhelming desire to leave the planet and return to Home. This is not a “suicidal” feeling. It is not based in anger or frustration. You don’t want to make a big deal of it or cause drama for yourself or others. There is a quiet part of you that wants to go Home. The root cause for this is quite simple. You have completed your karmic cycles. You have completed your contract for this lifetime. Your are ready to begin a new lifetime while still in this physical body. During this transition process, you have an inner remembrances of what it is like to be on the other side. Are you ready to enlist for another tour of duty here on Earth? Are you ready to take on the challenges of moving into the New Energy? Yes, indeed you could go Home right now. But you’ve come this far, and after many, many lifetimes it would be a shame to leave before the end of the movies. Besides, Spirit needs you here to help others transition into the new energy. They will need a human guide, just like you, who has taken the journey from the old energy into the new. The path you’re walking night now provides the experiences to enable you to become a Teacher of the New Divine Human. As lonely and dark as your journey can be at times, remember that you are never alone.

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Reiki FAQ 3

FAQ: REIKI AND UNWANTED HABITS


Through the years of teaching Reiki, I have received quite a lot of questions from practitioners. This section is a compiling of questions in no particular order, some are from the early years of the Reiki Newsletters that have not been archived

Q. I do have a Reiki question for you. I work with a woman who is trying to quit smoking and she asked if Reiki has ever been used/tried (successfully???) to help someone in the process. I didn't have an answer, but it certainly got me thinking. Any information you could share would be greatly appreciated! Thanks! -Anne B.

A. Good question- as with any other process for trying to quit smoking, the first thing that must happen is the individual must be ready to quit. This means they really want to give up the habit, it can not be because of pressures from the outside encouraging them and/or nagging them to quit.

If you recall from class, when an individual is ready and open for a healing to occur, it will. If your friend is in this position, then Reiki can be helpful. It can be helpful in dealing with the physical withdrawal symptoms, as well as the mental/emotional attachment to the habit.

Reiki is not a magic bullet, it will not instantly leave a person, free from cravings. It is just another tool, and as such, it is a vehicle to help the person explore, why they engage in this habit. When used as a tool to quit, and actively engaged and focused on this issue in a Reiki session, it will help bring insight to the person--what benefits they receive from smoking, what smoking is helping them to replace or to avoid, and then assistance in ways to resolve, or dissolve the fears that have created or contributed to the development of the habit.

Reiki helps by inducing relaxation and reducing stress, both which can help in the process. My thoughts, also include some additional support in conjunction with Reiki, to help strengthen the change. This could include joining a group for support, practicing guided imagery techniques, or to use a self hypnosis tape for 30 days, to name a few. Hope this was helpful. Susan
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Long Distance Reiki Assistance

REIKI STORY....
This experience was submitted to me from a Level II practitioner regarding the passing of her mother-in –law. She asked me to maybe reword or restructure her notes, but after reading them I feel it is best for her story to come through exactly as she had written it up. ~Susan


Thurs: Message from Florida, mom in critical condition on life support, around 6 am, unresponsive. Had surgery on her back earlier in the week
8am: Sister from NY called to book a flight down
Frank and Rob’s flight at 8pm. Flight cancelled because of bad storm, rescheduled to go in AM after they were already there for awhile . 10:30 pm update from Florida-did tests, sleeping, no response, heart strong.

Friday:Frank & Rob left again.

11:30 AM: I started long distance reiki

11:45 AM: Frank called from airport in Florida, Lynda there, going straight to hospital

12:14 PM: Activity (pulsing) in hands really slowed . Has a vision of a coffin with Joan in it . I felt a very cool draft . A dark cloud filled in over the coffin. Mentally I kept saying that Frank was on his way, to hold on for Frank. I tear up. The darkness gradually fades away to gray,, then white. The pulsating activity in my hands grows stronger.
12:25 PM: Activity slows down and I get cold. I have thoughts that it’s over
12:30 PM: Feelings of relief come over me, no more struggle, no more pain.
12:36PM: Why am I thinking these things? Stopped sending Reiki—too upset
1:00 PM: Frank arrived at hospital
4:00 PM: Took her off of life support, they all had said their good-bys before she was disconnected
4:30PM: Joan passed away peacefully, all of the family there, Dad read some scriptures

Submitted byPat S. This was a difficult experience for Pat to submit. Thank you for sharing that deeply touching story. This is a good example of how Reiki is so effective and powerful in giving assistance when a loved one is making that life transition. Susan

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Detecting an Energy Shift During Reiki

WORKING WITH OTHERS
SHIFT HAPPENS!

When a person is receiving a Reiki session, it is not uncommon for a shift in the body's energy to occur. This can often be seen as a release of energy. A release can happen when an individual is ready for this process.

This can be the release of an area that is blocked, to varying degrees, on various levels. A number of situations can be described that reflect a readiness on the part of the individual to make a shift in the energy body. I will include a few examples here that you may run across. It may be an old pattern or habit that is no longer needed and that is ready to be released so forward progress can be made. It can be a memory which is repressed from this or a prior lifetime, that is ready to be addressed. It may also be memory that one is totally aware of, but now the individual is ready to make a change in their response to the memory. Opening areas where there is a restriction in the flow of energy, is essential. The longer an area within the body is displaying a disruption in the flow of vital life force energy, the more likely the body will respond by taking on critical health challenges.

When a shift occurs on either the mental, physical, emotional or spiritual levels, there are certain indicators which can give a Reiki practitioner insight into what is happening as well as the next step to take in assisting the person.

The form an energy shift can take will only be limited by our means to describe them. Some indications showing this is occuring during a session might be: crying, shaking, yawning, sighs, breath rate changes, taking a deep breath, muscle spasms, twitches, burping, passing gas, gurgling intestines, coughing, and even laughter.


When I am giving a Reiki session to another, I usually wait until the end of the session to give feedback to the person. My reasoning for this is to allow them to do their own processing without my interference with their session. I will try to make a mental note of what I am observing and where, or I will jot down in my own particular brand of shorthand, a note. It will indicate what I observed and where. For example, if I am giving Reiki in the area of the 3rd chakra, or solar plexus region, and suddenly there is very pronounced twitching occuring, this would be an area for the client to review and reflect upon after the session is over, and that we would discuss.

A sharp pain or ache may be an indicator of either an energy release or an area that needs more attention. More subtle indicators of energy shifts are skin color and body temperature changes. Sometimes an ache or pain may be so intense it can bring the person to the point of tearing. My experience is that when this happens it is usually short in duration, followed by great relief. For example, I was giving Reiki once to a person in the shoulder area, that caused him a very intense, jabbing pain for about a minute. After the session, as we discussed the occurance, it came to light that he had a wrestling injury in that location when in high school, but there was also some emotional pain tied into it as well. As the energy shift was happening, it was bringing this to the surface, with pain as the calling card, signaling "ready for release" , after which he felt better. The next time I saw this indivdual, the same thing happened. It is the body's way of saying, "I'm bringing this to your attention, let's deal with the underlying factor!"

Communicating your awareness of positive shifts to the person after a Reiki session is a valuable part of the session. In many ways it is as important as the actual session itself. Feedback provides the individual with tangible validation that changes within their body have occurred and are continuing to take place.

The ability to identify releases, regardless of the form they take, allows you much greater insight into both a person’s healing process and your own progress. When you have learned how to read these indicators, you can gain valuable information on how willing and ready a person is to heal or to what extent they are in fear or are stuck.

When the body relaxes completely, it may be a sign that resistance has ended, the blockage has been released and healing is taking place. Although, at least for the time being, the process has been completed, there may be deeper levels to work on at a later date.

If you are looking for a stopping point in the session, this may be a good place. Sessions are best ended after a person has completed a process. Avoid ending a session while they are still processing their emotions. Stopping at this point, without completing the process, will leave the person in an extremely vulnerable position. As mentioned above, feedback after the acutal Reiki session closes is important.


During the post session consult, I allocate about 15 minutes to review the experience with my client. I ask for their feedback. What was going on for you during the Reiki session? Did you feel any physical shifts or releases of energy? If so, where? Did you have any emotions surfacing? Memories? A series of questions would be asked based on the pre-session consult and objectives, and where the client is in regards to their willingness to explore at a deeper level. Each session is unique. Each individual is unique. This must always be taken into account. Cookie cutter formulas are not effective. Learn to read the person you are working with.


After listening to what they have to say, I will then give my feedback. This will include any observations of energy shifts or releases I noticed and where these took place, as well as any intuitive information provided by the body and spirit.

At this point I remind my client that their work is just begining. The session primed the pump for them, so to speak, now they need to spend time reflecting, exploring, understanding and learning from the process. If they do this, they are working toward a healing. If they go no further, they are probably working toward a cure. Cure vs healing are two entirely different things. Look for a later post that will delve into the difference between cure vs healing.

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Using Reiki with the Elderly

REIKI STORY...

My neighbor, who is 86, has had knee, back and open heart surgeries in the last five years is doing well. I have done her (given her a Reiki treatment) the last four days, not yesterday as she had her stress test, and I'm supposed to do her again today.

She really enjoys the Reiki treatments. She slept pretty soundly through her last one. I did her last one on her back -- one to try something new and two to see if it would make any difference for her as balance seems to be a problem.

One things I did notice. I don't know if this is because of her age, but "reading" her (scanning) is more difficult. I have to really concentrate. Where on my horse, kids, or husband my hands can be fairly far off them and it's easy to read them. Also, she had , no kidding, a cold breeze over her buttocks. She feels great after each time.

The first time I did her on the table at her house she was concerned if someone would come by what would I do. I said I would stop. The next day she said, if someone comes just ignore them!! She wanted me to continue! Submitted by Paula D.


And here is the rest of it.

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Care After a Reiki Session

What you do following a Reiki healing session, especially within the first three hours, can greatly support and strengthen the work done in the actual session itself.

Below are some suggestions that you may find helpful:

• It is best to set aside time shortly after the session, if possible for relaxing, resting, and being quiet to reflect on the insights received. This allows the healing energy to penetrate undisturbed into the body and become more fully integrated.
  
• Some good activities could include journal writing, listening to soft music, taking a nature walk, or soaking in a hot bath.
  
• Avoid loud music, crowds, meetings or strenuous physical activity since you may feel more open and vulnerable.
  
• It is important to drink plenty of water for the next 24 hours, this helps to remove toxins released during the session.
  
• A hot bath with either one cup of apple cider vinegar or one cup of Epsom salts will also help release toxins through pores of the skin and cleanses the aura.
  
• At times, a person might get sick or come down with a cold following a healing session, this is known as a healing crisis. This results from the shift in perceptions and the rapid release of toxins from the body. The best remedy is to rest and drink lots of water.
  
• Vivid dreaming may occur over the next several evenings, paying attention to these dreams, trying to analyze their meaning will provide additional insights.

Regardless of whether you have received a Reiki treatment or another form of energy work or healing, the above steps are recommended.

I always tell my clients my job is not one of a healer. I am only capable of healing myself, and so they are really the only one who can heal themselves. I like to view my role as a facilitator, who helps to jumpstart a process or a journey for those wanting to bring more balance into their lives.

We each need to take personal owership and responsibility for our lives, the direction they take, and how healthy we are. My suggestion--empower yourself! One of the biggest mistakes we can make is to give away our power.

Sometimes without much thought, we just plunk it down...and say...here--you take over and be responsible for me! Wrong! Wrong! Wrong! Don't ever abdicate. Take the reins, assemble your team, and stay on as the manager. You will find when you are at the head of this important management position, things go much better. Anyway, who could possbily have your best interests in mind any better than you, when you really want to move forward?


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Herings's Law of Cure

Hering's law of cure has been verified by not only homeopaths but also ayurveds, naturopaths and energy healers. This suggests that the body is subject to certain laws that governs its working as a whole.

Herings law, in a nutshell, stipulates that there is a DIRECTION OF CURE. With this knowledge the physician can be sure whether he has really benefited the patient or only made him worse despite a reduction in the severity of symptoms. Says Hering, the cure proceeds:

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM
A symptom or a set of symptoms may slide down. What appeared on the head may go to the chest,then the abdomen, then the legs before going away entirely.

FROM WITHIN TO OUTWARD
The problem may leave the innards of the body and surface on the skin, nails, hair, and/or mucous membranes before disappearing. If the patient has an ulcer in the abdomen, during the treatment if the patient suddenly develops a profuse discharge of any of the mucous membranes, or develops a scary rash, then the direction is towards a cure. In such a case the subsequent acute manifestation should not be disturbed and must be allowed to take its course.

BACKWARDS IN TIME
The present symptom may be replaced by what has taken place prior to it, moving backwards the way it developed. For example a kidney failure patient may go back to his cardiac manifestation, then the severe abdominal complaints he may have suffered earlier may resurface. Then the eczema or psoriasis that was suppressed earlier may recur which when treated holistically, or by continuing the present method of treatment willcure the patient.

FROM THE MOST IMPORTANT ORGAN TO THE LEAST IMPORTANT
As stated above the affected kidney may heal with the disease going to the heart, then the liver, the abdomen, then the skin before affecting a cure. A mental symptom like anxiety may be relieved as the disease takes hold of a physical organ and then moving on from the more vital organ to the less important one.

A WORD OF CAUTION
Merely going to a practitioner who uses holistic remedies will not result in a cure as stated above. The practitioner must be aware of the DYNAMICS OF HEALING and must be a master in both the philosophy, art and the techniques of his science of healing. Both philosophy and practice must travel hand in hand. During the course of treatment the experienced physician enters the realm of the patient and both get transported to a plane which facilitates the
healing. The intuition of the doctor and the expression of the patient as to what ails him are the fundamentals without which cure is an illusion.

Disease per se may not be bad in a healthy person. The law of cure is not peculiar to the physicians efforts but is characteristic of the body's function. An accumulation of waste in the body may find relief from a sudden diarhhoea or a profuse cold. At such times rest and a simple diet will relieve the symptoms and the patient emerges feeling better than ever, cured of ennui. An emergency may thus be averted by the action of the body alone.What ought to be treated and what may grow worse from an external intrusion is a decision that only a knowledgeable and sincere physician well versed in the art of healing can make.

Detoxification is the primary aim of the body. Detoxification is the primary aim of the health conscious individual and the trained physician. The aim is the same, only the practices resorted to may be different. The body-mind energy complex is the best healer and its collective role should be a subject of close scrutiny for every physician.

Source: Dr.Roger Schmidt




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Healing Crisis vs Illness: What is the Difference?

CRISIS VS ILLNESS
A healing crisis is very diffferent from an illness. If you are unaware of the differences, it can eaily be confused with an illness. Read on to help distinguish the difference.

Also known as the "Herxheimer Reaction", this happens when the body tries to eliminate toxins at a faster rate than they can be properly disposed of. The more toxic one's bodily systems are, the more severe the detoxification, or healing crisis.

It may be characterized by a temporary increase in symptoms during the cleansing or detox process. Th s can range from mild to severe. You may initially feel worse and then figure the treatment is not working or that it has aggravated your situation. But these reactions are signs that the treatment is working and that your body is going through the process of cleansing itself of impurities, toxins and imbalances.

Such reactions are temporary and usually occur immediately -- or within a short time of a treatment. Symptoms usually pass within 1-3 days, but on rare occasions can last for longer periods of time.

If you are suffering from a major illness, the symptoms you experience during the healing crisis may be identical to the disease itself. Sometimes discomfort during the healing crisis is of greater intensity than when you were developing the chronic disease. This may explain why there may be a brief flare-up in one's condition.

Often the crisis will come after you feel your very best. Most people feel somewhat ill during the first few days of a cleanse because it is at that point that your body dumps toxins into the blood stream for elimination. With a more serious condition there may be many small crises to go through before the final one is possible. In any case, a cleansing & purifying process is underway, and stored wastes are in a free-flowing state.

CAUSE:
The healing crisis is the result of every body-system, working to eliminate waste products through all elimination channels and to set the stage for regeneration. The end result: old tissues are replaced with new. When any treatment or cleansing program causes a large scale die-off of bacteria, a significant amount of endotoxins (toxins within the bacteria itself) are released into the body. The more bacteria present, and the stronger their endotoxins, the stronger the cleansing reaction.

When any treatment or detox causes the organs of the body (particularly the liver, which is a storehouse of drug and poison residues) to release their stored poisons and toxins, a cleansing reaction may occur. Any program, such as fasting, which causes a rapid breakdown of fat cells (which are a storehouse for toxins), can cause a healing crisis as toxins previously lodged in the fat cells are released into the blood stream.

SYMPTOMS:
The healing crisis will usually bring about past conditions in whatever order the body is capable of handling at that time. People often forget the diseases or injuries they have had in the past, but are usually reminded during the crisis. There are a wide variety of reactions that may manifest during a healing crisis, the most common are:

Increased joint or Muscle Pain
Diarrhea
Extreme Fatigue and/or its opposite, restlessness
Cramps
Headache (believed to be caused by buildup of toxins in the blood)
Aches, Pains
Arthritic Flair Up
Insomnia
Nausea
Sinus Congestion
Fever (usually low grade) and/or Chills
Frequent Urination and/or Urinary Tract Discharges
Drop in Blood Pressure
Skin Eruptions (boils, hives, and rashes)
Cold or Flu-Like Symptoms
Strong Emotions (anger, despair, sadness, fear)
Suppressed Memories
Anxiety
Mood Swings
New Phobias Develop

EASING YOUR WAY THROUGH A HEALING CRISIS
Drink plenty of fresh water (especially water), juices, and herbal teas to flush the body of toxins.
Some professionals recommend distilled water as the best. Drink from 2 to 4 quarts per day. This will help flush the toxins out of your system and speed along the detoxification.

If you are feeling fatigued, or sleepy, your body is talking to you, and telling you to rest. Be kind to yourself, and get the rest that you need.

Symptoms frequently disappear immediately after a good bowel movement, use an enema to provide relief.

For other symptoms, meditation, EFT, acupuncture or a good massage might be helpful to speed up the healing process, and reduce the discomfort.

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Reiki FAQ 2

FAQ THROUGH THE YEARS

Through the years of teaching Reiki, I have received quite a lot of questions from practitioners. This section is a compiling of questions in no particular order, some are from the early years of the Reiki Newsletters that have not been archived.

Q: As you are giving a treatment if you are working on one side of the solar plexus, the 3rd chakra area, should you continue down that same side or should you go side to side down the body to complete the treatment?

A. My answer to this question is what do you feel you should do? When I am in this situation, I go based on my intuition. Sometimes I will continue down the one side, at other times I will go from side to side...there is no rule in play here, remember that Reiki is unlike many other modalities that require following a certain protocol, the more you let intuition guide you, the more effective your treatment will be for the individual you are working with.

Q. I am not getting any insights during sessions, will I ever get information?

A. Patience is the key ingredient here...some people will naturally have insights come quicker to them simply because they have been acting upon intuition in their daily lives, possibly without ever having tagged it as such...while others of us, it takes a bit longer to pull back the curtain that may veil our insights. We all are capable of using this tool. Trying too hard can also hinder the ability.

Meditation practice helps to still the mind to allow information to come through. It seems to be a cumulative effect for me, when I first started working I would get the color yellow, with further practice more colors would come through, this was then followed by single words that would pop into my mind, later feelings became connected to the words, then actual images would appear, almost like in a dream. When you begin to experience insights, try to remain in a "fuzzy focused" state of mind, if you try to focus your attention strongly on the information coming through, chances are it will disappear.

As much as we all want to experience these sensations, we need to remember that they are simply the "bells and whistles" of doing energy work. The most important thing that we do is to work with a clear intention, as free from ego attachment as we can get, so those we are working with receive the most benefit. If information is meant to come through for the higher good of the person we are working with, it will...there are more times than not that there will not be intuitive information coming through....remember the healing that occurs is not up to us, it is up to the person receiving the treatment..if they are ready to look into what is going on beyond the physical level, then either they or the practitioner will be more likely to receive some information or direction

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Enhancing a Session: Aromatherapy Part I

AROMATHERAPY AND REIKI

I love doing Reiki. I love doing self-treatments. I love giving Reiki. I love working with clients. Reiki is such a gentle healing modality that lends itself to so many possibilities. Many other techniques can be incorporated into a session. At times I find that using Aromatherapy along with Reiki is in the receiver's best interest. Below is a little background on Aromatherapy if you are not familiar.

So What Exactly is Aromatherapy?
It is the therapeutic use of essential oils found in plants. The term "essential" is used because the oils contained within the plants are highly potent forms of aromatic energy that manifests as the life force of the plant. When oils are extracted from their source they are "volatile" meaning they change from their liquid form into an aromatic vapor once they are exposed to air.


From What Parts of the Plants are EO'S Found?
They are found in various parts of plants: roots (Ginger), leaves (Basil),bark (Cinnamon), flowers (Lavender), peels (Bergamot), seeds (Anise), Resin (Bensoin), bulbs (Garlic), nut (Nutmeg), and fruit (Black Pepper).

What are Some of the Methods of Application?
The following are the various ways that EO's can be used: full bath, sitz bath, hand bath, foot bath, massage oils, used in products as an exfoliant for the skin or for a stimulating body rub, inhalation methods, added to heat sources to release the aromatic molecules into the air, used to make perfumes, used in floral water, and used in compresses.

How Many Drops of EO Do You Use?
It depends on which EO you are using and by which method. There is no one fits all formula for using Essential Oils. They are very concentrated and must be used with care and respect. Certain EO's have contra-indications and should not be used in specific cases. If you are interested in working with aromatherapy it is absolutely necessary to get yourself a good book to read to make sure you are following the proper safety guidelines. Also what would be considered a normal rate varies with adults, children, the elderly, and the sick.

Can EO's BE Applied Directly to the Skin?
As a general rule, EO's should not be applied directly to the skin without being diluted. The exception is Lavender (Lavandula officinalis) and Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). A person can have a severe allergic reaction to direct skin application. A skin patch test is used to test sensitivity. Dermal irritation may occur if an oil is administered incorrectly in too high a concentration or if you have sensitive skin or allergies.

How Do You Do a Skin Patch Test?
Place 1 drop of the EO being tested in a very small amount of carrier oil such as almond oil and apply it to a clean, dry area of the forearm. Wait 24 hours, then check the area tested. If there is no reaction, then you have passed the test! If there is any indication of sensitivity or reaction, it will appear as a red spot, itching or blistering. If that is the case, substitute it for another oil.

How Can I Create an Aromatherapy Bath?
Run your bath water, make sure the bathroom door is closed so vapors do not escape. Then add the recommended drops of EO's to the bath. Use just one EO. There are several Essential Oils that could be used but below are few that are effective for stress relief and relaxation. The recommendation is to soak for 20 minutes, so grab a good book, play some soft music, and let the day dissolve into the water. To continue the benefits of an aromabath, wrap yourself in a towel, get into bed under the covers and Reiki yourself for another 10-15 minutes.

What are Some Recommended EO's for a Stress Reduction and Relaxation Bath?

Lavender (Lavendula officinalis): has a steadying effect on the psyche, which aids in removing indecisiveness and emotional conflict. Helps to create a feeling of peacefulness. Good for depression. Dosage: 5-10 drops in a full bath. No known contra-indications

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus): clears the head of mental exhaustion and the inability to concentrate. Balances extreme moods. Helps cool heated emotions whether verbal, physical, or emotional. Its aroma creates a feeling of space. Also good for clearing out sinus congestion. Dosage: 3-5 drops in a full bath. Cautions/Contra-Indications: Do not exceed stated dosage, do not use with homeopathic remedies, do not use undiluted on skin, use with caution if taking medication, it can reduce the effects of the medication, contra-indicated if there is a history of epilepsy, hypertension, gastrointestinal inflammation or liver complaints.

Lemon (Citrus limonum): This clean, fresh, lively scent helps dispel sluggishness, indecision, and lack of humor. It aids stimulation of the body into action and clear thinking. Dosage: 3-6 drops in a full bath. Caution: It can cause irritation skin sensitization and may be phototoxic, use in moderation

Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens): is both calming and refreshing to the psyche at the same time. It is successful in lifting depression and treating anxiety states. It assists in balancing the mind and helps us to gain control of our lives when we are feeling depleted and blue. A good mood adjuster. Dosage: 3 drops in a full bath.Cautions/Contra-indications: not to be used in early pregnancy, it can irritate the skin in some sensitive individuals, and cause insomnia and restlessness.

As I stated these are just a few of the available choices. Dosages are stated for full baths. So if the stress of the day gets to you, why not try a bit of relaxation with Aromatherapy in the tub to rejuvenate your spirits!

If you have any questions about Aromatherapy, or a specific essential oil- its application, dosage recommendation, or cautions/contra-indication concerns…just askthem and I'll be glad to answer your questions.

NEXT POST: Buying, Storing, and Caring for Essential Oils.

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Energy Technique Toolbox Tip 1

ENERGIZE! LEARN THE 3 THUMPS

Alot of us have trouble sometime during our day, maintaining a good level of energy. Maybe it is first thing in the morning, trying to hit the ground running in a full sprint. Or possibly it hits around that 4PM time slot when the couch is calling your name for a nap, but you know you have to get dinner started . Then again, just maybe it is a little later in the evening, when one of your kids needs help with understanding his new-old-new math homework, but you are so exhausted you can barely keep your eyes open and head from falling into your lap. Then it is time to turn to the Technique Toolbox for some help!

These three simple techniques are ones that have been taught by Donna Eden in her classic book, Energy Medicine. When you find yourself in need of an extra dose of energy to get you moving-- try these. The complete 3 Thumps series takes only minutes to complete, yet sends waves of energy that can last for hours.

Thump the Thymus: The thymus gland contributes to the development of a strong, healthy immune system. By tapping on this area first thing in the morning, and then a few more times throughout the day, we are keeping this gland stimulated. So where is the thymus? Picture Tarzan pounding the center of his chest, what he really was doing was activating the thymus before moving into action. Take a page out of his book to start the energy flowing into your day.

Rub the K-27 Points: The K-27 points are very special points on the body! These points are also used in EFT (emotional freedom technique) to activate the energy system to flow in the correct direction. K-27 will help to strengthen the immune system, improve concentration and alertness. To find K-27 (which is the endpoint of the Kidney meridian) place your fingers at the ends of the collarbone, then slide fingers toward the middle of the collarbone, then drop down about an inch. You will feel a slight indentation. The points often hurt when first stimulated, but this decreases as they are regularly worked. Tapping or rubbing these particular spots will send a wake up message to the brain to adjust your energy so you feel more alert. Getting drowsy during the mid-afternoon meeting with the boss? Work these points!

Activate the Spleen Points: These are neurolympathic points on your spleen meridian, which like the two above will help boost the immune system, energize the body, and balance blood chemistry. How can I locate these points? They are the depression between the 7th and 8th rib, just below the level of the breastbone or sternum. Move your hands beneath your breasts, straight under the nipples, then move down over the next rib. Just like the points mentioned above, they may hurt when being stimulated if not done regularly.

Using these 3 special energy points throughout your day, will provide an extra boost when you need a little more get up and go than your getting.

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Non-Attachment to Results

WORKING WITH OTHERS...
Suggestions for the Practitioner
"In the western world, people learn to compete at an early age and they suffer the consequences of that programming throughout their lives. Most of us are programmed to obtain results and are motivated to achieve success. These programmed attitudes and skills work against a healer. To be a healer requires the development and use of other skills. Setting an intention or desire for healing is normal and appropriate. However, when either the healer or the person receiving the healing becomes attached to a specific result and strives for that particular outcome, the energy becomes disruptive. If you, as a healer, need to prove yourself on any level you are only detracting from the purity of the healing. By imposing your needs for approval and results onto others, you introduce a disruptive energy pattern that is similar to the energy of expectation, violation and abuse that many people experienced in childhood. If you are not clear with the healing energy, you may be perpetuating the same type of violation that was the root cause of the dis-ease in the first place.

When the healer remains unattached to a specific outcome, the person receiving the healing is allowed the freedom to change for themselves rather than changing to please the healer. If the person changes to please someone else, the healing will usually be only superficial and any positive results will probably be short-lived. Developing the skill of non-attachment will greatly assist those you work with as well as helping you realize your full potential in healing work. Any energy other than unconditional love and acceptance can feel like violation to the person, even when it is meant to help. This is especially true if they were violated as a child.

Please remember that healing takes place best when you let healing energy come through you and remain unattached to the outcome. This allows the energy to flow naturally and permits the person to heal at their own pace.”

Excerpted from: The Healing Energy of Your Hands, Michael Bradford

The message in the passage above is important, and one I try to emphasis when teaching Reiki. Although on a intellectual level, we can understand the concept of remaining unattached to results, when placed in an actual situation many times we may find ourselves coming from the perspective of sympathy. This emotion can shift us very easily out of the mode of channeling Reiki though us to that of using our own energy.

Instead the best approach is to be able to take the perspective of the compassionate heart that does not attach to the suffering. When we are able to do this, the sensation of Reiki energy flowing though us is inexhaustible and we do not feel drained or burned out by those we are working with.

Some points to remember to help remain centered when giving a Reiki treatment to another:

1. Discuss both your role and that of the person you are assisting, with assisting being the key term here. This implies that the receiver of the treatment is in the primary position of responsibility, we as the therapist are aiding them in their healing process, not taking on the task of their healing. If we move into this arena, we are short changing the person we are working with, as well as taking on some karma we don’t need. When these roles are clearly defined and understood by the client, it also helps us to stay centered and unattached, because the choices for healing and the results that ensue lie directly with the person we are helping.

2. It is helpful to state this in terms such as : Any healing that will occur during this session is that which you are ready and able to handle at this time.

3. I can not emphasis this enough, it is important for the person to take on an active role in their healing, and not to assume they will be receiving a treatment in which they are just lay or sit there passively, while you take on the responsibility of doing all the work. When this type of relationship occurs, we place ourselves in the danger zone!

4. Keep your intention broad and general as you begin your treatment session: This Reiki session is for **indicate the person’s name** highest good, and for the highest good of all.

5. Suggest to the person who will receive the treatment to also make an intention for the session, that is general as well. By asking for relief from a very specific ailment or set of symptoms could significantly narrow down the realm of possibilities. This may offer temporary relief while missing the bigger picture of why this particular set of circumstances appeared in the first place.

Example: Instead of setting an intention asking for relief from the back pain I am experiencing right now, set the intention for the session to create a healing on whatever level(s) I need right now as well as to provide me with the insight as to why I am currently experiencing this particular set of symptoms. Ask- What do I need to learn from this?

6. Lastly, examine your own reasons for working with others. If the list of reasons are all about you…wanting to feel good, needing to feel appreciated, seeking approval, etc. it may be best to just work on yourself until you can resolve these personal issues..

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Using Reiki with Chronic Kidney Disease

REIKI STORY...

Reiki is such a gentle, yet powerful healing modaility. Each month in my Reiki newsletter I post Reiki stories or experiences that help inspire. This is one from a rather recently attuned Reiki practitioner who is having amazing results.

My name is Rob and I have C.K.D.,,aka chronic kidney disease. As you probably know your kidneys play a major role in filtering the body's wastes. I was diagnosed about three years ago, after a routine blood test revealed a high Creatinine count. Creatinine is a waste by-product produced by the kidneys. The average person has a creatinine level of 0.02-5...my level was 3.2...an indication of kidney failure.


Now,the magic number for total kidney failure is 7.0, that means Kidney dialysis. Unfortunately or more, foolish of me, I put off going to the doctors. I sort of denied it. I reasoned that if it took all my life to get to that point, it would take many, many years to reach total failure...I was wrong!

Once reaching that level of 3.2, the condition starts to snowball towards failure! After more than a year since being diagnosed with c.k.d, I went for another blood test to see where I stood.. the test came back 4.3...I could no longer deny this. So I went to a Nephrologist, a kidney doctor....and began treatment.

I will never forget the first time I went to the kidney clinic. The waiting room was comprised entirely of elderly people, clearly with multiple problems. I, being 41 yrs old at the time,stood out! Right from the beginning, my mentality was "I don't belong here". Looking back I didn't realize my defiant attitude would play an important part of my treatment.

Treatment,by the way of conventional medicine, simply meant drugs and diet. Now there happened to be a dialysis room there at the clinic so curiosity got the best of me and I took a peek in! What I saw jolted me! Two rows of beds, about 10 per row, all filled with elderly people who looked like they've been to hell and back. If you don't know, a dialysis machine draws your blood out, its then filtered through the machine and returns it back to your body cleansed. The process is done 3 days a week: Monday,Wednesday, Friday--,5 hours each day, it leaves the patient feeling drained of energy,usually.

Well at the sight of that I thought "there is no way I am doing that"!!! I will do whatever it takes to stay out of there! So I dutifully followed the Drs orders and took my pills and watched my diet, and signed up for a kidney transplant. However I fell into a depression. The treatment wasn't intended to stop kidney failure just slow down the inevitable. Nothing was going to Stop my kidneys from failing,and this was depressing.

I was recently divorced, my condition had a hand in that, and I was working two jobs to survive. Things were not looking good for year. So I started praying, something I haven't done for about 7 years. I delved into books of a spiritual nature and content,looking for a positive outlook on life. I even went to therapy for help.

I go every 3 months for blood work and every month the creatinine level goes up. Not
much,usually a point, but always up. Now I was always "energy sensitive", and a few
years prior I had looked into Reiki and had a respect for it, but didn't embrace it at the time. Then in June 2007 I felt the time was right to look into it again, after all reiki is about healing. So I simply "googled reiki masters in pa" and had a list to choose from. After perusing some names, Susan Anderson and her Seeds for Change appealed to me! So I studied Reiki Level 1 and found it had wonderful possibilities!

The first few weeks after attunements, found me fascinated with rediscovery, both of
myself and this world,our universe! Really I am still going through this process. I've learned how to channel energy through touch and take an active role in treating my c.k.d.! Since i've studied with Susan, I've had two blood tests since becoming a reiki practioner..Before I went to Susan my cretinine level was 4...now its at 3.8!!

I give myself a reiki treatment almost every day for at least 30 minutes. My sessions are ever evolving and taking more dimension and depth! I presently incorporate visualization, crystals, jade and mantra's into each session. After which I have a deep satisfaction of knowing I am taking a proactive approach to my condition thats its actually working. Reiki is one of the best things that i have discovered in this life..its rewards are really amazing!! Sincerely, Rob G

Comment from Susan: This is such a powerful story illustrating the need to empower
ourselves, and once we do, we are firmer ground. One thing that Rob had mentioned to me in previous conversations is that the cretinine levels he was referring to do not go down...they may slow down, but they do not reverse. This is an amazing testimony to Rob's work on himself and using the healing power of Reiki to bring about positive change.

Many who know me, have heard me tell this story numerous times....about 15 years ago I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, the doctor told me it was a degenerative disease and would only get progressively worse. I was handed a few prescriptions, and an appointment was made to come back to see my doctor in 1 month. I walked out of that office, and committed a very defiant act, I tore up the prescriptions and declared to the universe..."I don't do rheumatoid arthritis, not in the realm of things that will be part of my life." Didn't know what I was going to do, but the answer arrived a few days later. I worked using a natural, holistic remedy and within 1 week's time I had no remaining symptoms left. Prior to that I was in bed, with every joint in my body inflamed and extremely painful. I do not have RA. Could it be that when we take the power of control, with our mind, body and spirit, we have the ability to create our own miracles? I think so...my experience and Rob's are good indicators. Read about my story of healing from Rheumatoid Arthritis.



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Reiki FAQ 1: Basic Questions

BASIC REIKI QUESTIONS

This section of questions is for those just dropping by while researching or checking out the topic of Reiki.

What is Reiki?
Pronounced ray-kee, Reiki is a very gentle, yet powerful, self-healing modality, in which one channels the universal life force energy, for the purposes of restoring balance and harmony.

Rei- refers to universal consciousness, that higher power or source energy. It knows each living organism at its deepest level, understanding completely what creates balance and imbalance. Ki- refers to a non-physical energy that flows through all living things. When we are feeling good, the ki energy flows freely. When we begin to get out of balance, there is a restriction in the flow of this energy. When we become health challenged, there is a great slowing down of the ki. When a living organism dies, there is no flow of ki left in the body..

Where does Reiki come from?
Reiki energy is a subtle, non-physical energy coming from a Higher Source, which exists on a higher dimension than the physical world we are familiar with. We channel the energy into and through us, for healing purposes- to restore and balance.

What can Reiki do?
The simplest explanation is that Reiki reduces stress, allowing the body to go into a deep state of relaxation. In this state we are able to do many things to help ourselves access the healer within.
What can Reiki be used for?
There are so many ways Reiki can be used and incorporated into one's life. As a first aid tool, it is indispensible for immediate action until we can get other help, it compliments traditional medical treatment beautifully, it can be used to help restore an inner state of balance, manage or reduce pain, bless water and food, assist the healing of plants, animals, and the environment ... really the list can just go on and on.

What kind of training is necessary?
This is the beauty of Reiki, very little training is actually needed to get started with this healing modality. An open heart, a clear intention for working for the highest good, and your hands are enough to get you started.

Reiki does not require a big investment in money for education and materials. Since we channel the energy, we do not need to direct it. We do not diagnose. We simply allow the energy to flow through us. It goes to where it needs to go to get to the root cause of what is out of balance.
Reiki teachers, often called Reiki Masters, can determine how they wish to set up a class for teaching. Often a Level I class is taught in a full one day session. I personally, perfer to teach over a 4 week period of time.

As a retired educator, I often rely on good, general teaching practices. To me, it is difficult for an individual to fully attend and process all the information in one day, so I extend my class sessions. But each person is unique in their needs and wants. When looking for a Reiki teacher, you should select someone who aligns best with your preferred style of learning.

What is Reiki Level I?
If you are interested in taking a class in Reiki, this is where you start. It is about learning to access the healing power of Reiki, so you can work with the energy on yourself, first and foremost! You also are able to work with others--be it plant, animal, human- in person. It is where the foundation is set.

At Level I, you will learn the background information, general protocol of hand positions, receive a basic introduction to the chakra system, learn the 5 Reiki principles, be taught and practice self-treatments and working with others. Reiki is activated through an attunement process channelled by the Reiki teacher to the student. This helps you to access the reiki energy upon immediate request, as well as raising your vibrational level.

Is Reiki a Religion?
No, it is not a religion. It is a spiritual practice, when embraced fully into one's lifestyle. The Reiki principles which are taught, are really part of every culture's belief system. When these principles are used as a guiding light, peace and harmony become the mainstay of our lives.

What are the 5 Reiki Principles?
Glad you asked! Just for today...I let go of worry, I let go of anger, I live my life honestly, I give thanks for my many blessings and I am kind to all living things. If we get into the practice of reciting these principles each morning and evening, they become a central focus for our day.

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Enhancing a Session Index

Enhancing a Session with Aromatherapy Part 1

Using Polarity

Using Guided Imagery: Healing Script

And here is the rest of it.

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Client Resource Index

Body Organ Frequency Chart
Care After a Reiki Session
Chakars
Healing Crisis
Herrings Law of Healing
How in the World Do I Let Go?
Keeping Oneself Clear
The Science Behind Reiki
12 Symptoms of Awakening
Voice and Consciousness

. And here is the rest of it.

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Tips and Techniques Index

1. Care After a Reiki Session
2. Cleansing Your Aura
3. Connecting to Source and Centering
4. Escaping the Grip of Fear
5. Grounding
6. Keeping Oneself Clear
7. Moving the Energy Flow
8. The Three Thumps
9. Techniques for Removing Energy Blockages
10. Seeing the Aura
    
    . And here is the rest of it.

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Reiki Story Index

Reiki to the Rescue
Batteries Revived
Long Distance Reiki Assistance
Using Reiki with Chronic Kidney Disease.
Using Reiki with the Elderly
Spirit Guides
Visited By an Angel

And here is the rest of it.

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Working With Others Index

Introduction to the Aura
Colors of the Aura
Chakras
Detectng an Energy Shift During Reiki
Intuition: The Golden Gift
Keeping Oneself Clear
More on Aure Cleansing
Non- Attachment to Results
Preparing For An Energy Session
12 Symptoms of Awakening
. And here is the rest of it.

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