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Reiki is an alternative medicine that virtually anyone can practice with the right training. To become a certified Reiki practitioner, one must simply take courses from Reiki Masters. These courses typically take around 10 hours to complete and they provide you with the certification to become a “first-degree” practitioner. Of course, there are two more levels in the traditional teachings that you can attain to become a practitioner with even more knowledge and energy. The highest level you can achieve is that of “Master.” But, how exactly do you attain that level?
Historical Background
When Reiki was first discovered in 1922, the lone master and practitioner was Mikao Usui. Over time, Usui initiated other Masters into the “fold,” following the original format in which recipients advanced from first- to second-degree and eventually to Master/Teacher. Hawayo Takata was attuned to Reiki in the 1930s and was instrumental in the globalization of the spiritual healing philosophy. In her lifetime, she initiated only 22 Masters. She passed on in 1980 and left the future of the “Western” Reiki tradition in the hands of the 22 Masters she had trained.
These masters then went on to offer Master training in their own right. Most followed the same basic rules, starting on a beginner level, advancing to an intermediate level, and eventually culminating in the Master level.
But, others, drawn by spiritual guidance and experience, tweaked the standard road to Master Reiki practitioner. Indeed, some Masters decided to include between 2 and 5 extra levels to officially attain the title of Reiki Master. These levels were clearly supposed to indicate the importance of Reiki training.
Becoming a Master
Even in modern times, becoming a Reiki Master is still quite difficult. You must still progress through the three traditional levels of “degree” progress. As mentioned above, your Reiki Master may require the use of more degrees or levels to fully attain the Master title.
It’s important for you to find a Master with whom you are comfortable. You should feel attuned to this Master and have a clear understanding of how they teach and what benefits they can provide to you. It is certainly not enough to strive for certification with the first Master you come into contact with. In some instances, you may not feel connected to this Master. In any event, the only way to advance to the Master level is work under the tutelage of an already certified master.
Beyond that, it’s also necessary to keenly evaluate your life’s purpose to gauge whether or not Mastership is the right direction for you. Spend time in meditation, cleansing yourself and allowing your energy to lead you in the right direction. Your Master will certainly help you along the way and even after you have gained your Mastership.
As a Master Reiki practitioner, you will be able to pass on the attunements to your own pupils. First, you will likely want to practice the attunements on close friends or family who have already been endowed with Reiki. Give yourself some time before teaching your first class. Practice lectures and lead meditations with your close friends and family. Once you feel ready, you can truly call yourself a Reiki Master.