Four Keys to Finding the Right Reiki Teacher for You

Reiki is a wonderful tool for spiritual, emotional and physical integration and healing and if you’ve decided you would like to train to become a practitioner, you might be wondering how to find the right Reiki teacher for you. Every instructor has a particular teaching style and here I will outline four key points that will help you find a teacher and class that suits your needs.

1. Make sure the class is what you are expecting it to be. Most Reiki teachers provide their students a comprehensive class that lasts several hours where all of the pertinent information about Reiki is taught, an attunement (passing of the ability to channel Reiki energy) is given, ample hands-on experience is provided to give the student confidence in his or her ability to provide a session and certification is given at the end of class. There are, however, some teachers who only provide an attunement, a list of books to read, give out the appropriate certificates and then dismiss the class. Students who attend this type of class are lacking hands-on experience and aren’t given a chance to ask questions about the material they will later read.
   
2. Make contact with the teacher. When possible, contact the teacher by email or, even better, by phone. This will enable you to establish a bit of rapport and get a feel for their individual personality. Sometimes this alone can tell you whether or not the person is the one you want to learn from.
   
3. Ask to see a copy of the instructor’s teaching certificate. Every Reiki teacher is certified as an instructor. Most Western certificates will indicate the level of 3B or state the title of Reiki Master Teacher. Though I haven’t personally heard of anyone falsely claiming to be a Reiki teacher the fact is anyone can easily claim that title. Don’t be afraid to ask to see a teacher’s certificate. Most will be happy to email you a copy.
4. Request some referrals. Since every instructor has a unique teaching style, it is important to know if the person you’re considering taking a class from teaches in a way that is compatible with you. Are you the type who prefers a faster, more direct approach without a lot of excess discussion or do you need someone who is patient, moves at a more relaxed pace and enjoys answering questions? By asking for the contact information of a few past students who have agreed to act as referrals, you can get an idea of how this person teaches and whether or not you think he or she is best for you.

A Reiki class should be a positive, uplifting experience that you will remember for a long time to come and finding just the right teacher will help ensure that your Reiki training fulfills you on every level. I hope you found this article helpful and I wish you all the best on your Reiki journey.

Namaste,

Jason Hundley

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