Reiki Master Training and Initiation (Shinpiden)

About the training

Reiki begins with the first degree, Shoden or Reiki 1. During this course, you receive an initiation and learn the foundations of self-treatment and offering Reiki through the laying on of hands. You may later continue to the second degree, Okuden or Reiki 2, which deepens your practice with the traditional symbols and distance Reiki.

Within the tradition of Usui Shiki Ryoho, becoming a Reiki Master is not an automatic next step. Not everyone who has completed the first and second degrees chooses the Master path. The tradition does not describe this as a third degree; for some, the practice of Reiki 1 and Reiki 2 is already a complete path.

The Master path may begin after Reiki 2, when you feel an inner calling to continue. It is a choice that grows from a deep connection with Reiki and a wish to take on further study, responsibility and spiritual development.

Being a Reiki Master is a way of life

Being a Reiki Master goes beyond receiving a certificate or completing a course. It is a commitment to living in the spirit of Reiki and to continuing your own personal development. A Master brings the practice into relationship with the people, animals and natural world around them.

Many Reiki Masters initiate students into the different degrees, teach courses and accompany students as their practice develops. This asks for a willingness to support others over time. Within Usui Shiki Ryoho, the initiation is understood as a transmission carried through a direct teacher-to-student lineage traced to Mikao Usui.

What is the difference between a Reiki Master and a Reiki practitioner?

At Reiki 1 and Reiki 2, students learn to practise Reiki for themselves and others. A Reiki practitioner may offer Reiki sessions professionally. A Reiki Master has undertaken further preparation and receives the capacity, within the tradition, to initiate others and teach Reiki courses. The Master therefore takes an active role in passing on Usui Shiki Ryoho.

Preparing for the Reiki Master path

If the Master path speaks to you, begin by completing Reiki 1 and Reiki 2. After Reiki 2, take time to explore whether you wish to become a Reiki Master. It is a significant decision and deserves patient reflection and an honest conversation with the teacher you are considering.

Traditional Reiki Master training takes at least one year, or as long as needed for your learning and personal development. During this time, an experienced Reiki Master offers close guidance and prepares you for the Master initiation.

What may be part of the training?

• The history and practice of Usui Shiki Ryoho.
• Working with the Reiki symbols at Master level.
• How to give initiations within the tradition.
• How to prepare, teach and accompany students in a Reiki course.
• Ongoing personal practice, including self-treatment, intuition and connection with Reiki.

Within the tradition, the fee for Master initiation is regarded as an important part of the process. It reflects the student's commitment to carrying Reiki forward as a Master in Usui Shiki Ryoho. Details are discussed directly with the teacher.

Who is this training for?

The training is for people who have completed Reiki 1 and Reiki 2 and feel a deep connection with Reiki. A background in therapy is not required. The training may also complement work as a coach or holistic practitioner, but what matters most is sincere motivation and a willingness to embrace Reiki as a way of life.

The Reiki Alliance and Usui Shiki Ryoho

The Reiki Alliance is an international community of Reiki Masters dedicated to the practice of Usui Shiki Ryoho, the Usui System of Natural Healing. Its members connect through educational development, worldwide gatherings and mutual support.

Would you like to know more?

If you have completed Reiki 1 and Reiki 2 and would like to explore the Master path, or if you have questions about the training or Usui Shiki Ryoho, send us a message. Your email will be addressed to raychicalls@icloud.com.