10 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Reiki Master

When you’ve made the decision to learn Reiki, the next step is choosing a Reiki Master. In Reiki, we say that the student chooses the Master, so one could assume that whomever you choose to learn Reiki from, it’s always for the best. Unfortunately, judging from the high numbers of students who have come to me for “re-doing their Reiki training” over the years, this isn’t always the case. I, too, needed to re-train in Reiki 1 and Reiki 2 with a second Reiki Master so that I felt better prepared for my Master training. Although all Reiki Masters use the same energy, there is a dramatic difference in how Reiki is taught, how much support is given to students, what sort of information is provided etc. So, to make things easier for the prospective student, here are some questions that you should ask before choosing the “best” Reiki Master for your training.

How many students per class?

If you prefer more personalised and thorough training, go for a smaller class. Some Reiki Masters will try to fit as many students as possible into a class, whereas others place a higher value on the quality rather than quantity. Keeping class numbers small allows the Reiki Master to connect better with each student, as well as giving everyone the chance to share their experiences and ask questions.

How long is the training?

When learning in a group, a Reiki 1 class should take not less than two full days. I have had a large number of Reiki students come to me over the years for re-training because their original training was done in just one day (for a group), or even just a few hours! It is impossible to learn Reiki thoroughly, and to a high standard, in such a short period of time.

Is a comprehensive manual provided?

This should be expected, but the reality is that many Reiki Masters do not provide this. Your Reiki manual should be something that you can refer to for guidance in using Reiki to treat yourself and others, and should also include pictures of all treatment positions used. You shouldn’t have to rely on purchasing Reiki books afterwards, or scouring the internet for guidance.

Is full certification given?

Most students assume that certification is given, but this is not always the case. My first Reiki Master didn’t provide any certificates, and I have met other practitioners who weren’t certified, either. This is a very important question to ask, especially if you plan on practising Reiki in countries where there are strict laws governing this.|

How much time is given for hands-on practise?

To make this simple, if no practise is included in the class, find a different Reiki Master. Time must be given for each student to practise on themselves and each other. You should also find out if additional practise time is arranged, in case you need this following the training.

What support is given afterwards?

For a lot of Reiki Masters, once the class has finished, their “job” is done. Ask the prospective Reiki Master if it’s possible to have extra practise sessions after the training, or if you will be able to contact them in the future with questions and for guidance. If the answer to these questions is, “no”, or if they want to charge you money for practise time, you’ll be better off finding a different Reiki Master.

What form of Reiki is being taught?

This is an important question to ask your prospective Reiki Master. There are many types of Reiki being taught and practised around the world, so it can make things confusing or overwhelming if you’re new to this. To break it down simply, we can divide them into “traditional” and “non-traditional”. “Traditional” Reiki (commomly referred to as, “Usui Reiki”) is the original form created, practised, and taught by Mikao Usui more than 100 years ago. The oldest “non-traditional” form of Reiki was created around 25 years ago, and since then many other forms have been created.

Be aware that all “non-traditional” forms are based on the usage of symbols, whilst traditional Usui Reiki is practised simply by placing hands where the energy is needed, without the need for symbols. Although symbols are taught and used in traditional level 2 Reiki and above, their use is optional rather than necessary. Although it’s a personal choice as to which type of Reiki to learn, in my experience over the years, traditional Usui Reiki tends to be the best choice for the majority of new students. There are also many Masters who teach a mix of traditional and non-traditional techniques, myself included. There are some non-traditional practises and knowledge that is very useful and effective, so I include these along with the traditional teachings and practises.

Does the Reiki Master have an active healing practise?

This may seem like a strange question, as most people would assume that a Reiki Master actively does healing treatments. And though most Reiki Masters do actively practise as Reiki healers, the fact is that there are ones who don’t, so make sure to ask or check their website. If their healing experience is limited, they won’t be of much help to you if you have questions about treating certain issues, or need other guidance in your practise of Reiki (whether self-healing or treating others).

What training did the Reiki Master receive?

Basically, if you’re looking for high-quality Reiki training, you don’t want to be learning Reiki from someone who did their Reiki level 1 – Mastership training online in one weekend, for the low price of $49.99 (yes, this exists).

How long has the Reiki Master been practising?

The amount of time a Reiki Master has been practising and teaching doesn’t automtically equate to the quality of their Reiki classes, although it frequently does. However, there are “new” Reiki Masters who are wonderful, and really put their hearts into what they do. There are also “seasoned” Reiki Masters who continue to teach the same “old stuff”, merely repeating what they were taught, bringing nothing new to the experience. So, try to find out what other students have to say about their experiences in learning Reiki, to get a better idea of what to expect.

Beyond all of these questions, the most important thing is that you feel good with your Reiki Master, and know that you can trust them in teaching and guiding you on your own Reiki and healing path, for your highest good.