Reiki, a holistic healing practice originating from Japan, emphasizes channeling universal energy to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Central to Reiki practice are its symbols, which serve as energetic tools to enhance healing. These symbols, deeply rooted in traditional Usui Reiki, are used at various levels of Reiki training and are essential for practitioners to master.
If you’re curious about what are the 3 Reiki symbols, how they work in Reiki symbols level 1 and Reiki symbols level 2, and how to incorporate them into your practice, this guide will provide clarity.
Understanding Reiki Symbols
Reiki symbols are sacred representations used by practitioners to focus and direct energy during healing sessions. Each symbol has a unique meaning and purpose, functioning as a bridge between the practitioner’s intention and the recipient’s healing process.
In traditional Usui Reiki, there are three primary symbols introduced during the first two levels of Reiki training. Each is written in Japanese kanji, reflecting its spiritual origins. These symbols are not mere drawings; they carry profound energetic vibrations.
The 3 Reiki Symbols
The three main Reiki symbols are:
- Cho Ku Rei (The Power Symbol)
- Sei He Ki (The Emotional and Mental Healing Symbol)
- Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen (The Distance Healing Symbol)
Each of these symbols is introduced at different stages of Reiki training, starting with Reiki symbols level 1 and expanding upon in Reiki symbols level 2. Let’s explore their meanings and applications.
Cho Ku Rei – The Power Symbol
Cho Ku Rei, often referred to as the Power Symbol, is the first Reiki symbol taught in Reiki symbols level 1. Its primary purpose is to amplify energy flow and create a protective shield around the practitioner and recipient.
- Appearance: Cho Ku Rei resembles a spiral, symbolizing the flow of energy from the universe into a concentrated point.
- Uses:
- Amplifying the energy during a Reiki session.
- Clearing and protecting spaces from negative energies.
- Sealing in healing energy after a session.
How to Use It:
To use Cho Ku Rei, visualize the symbol in your mind or trace it with your hand over the area you’re treating. Intend for the universal energy to flow through the spiral and into the desired space.
Sei He Ki – The Emotional and Mental Healing Symbol
Sei He Ki, introduced during Reiki symbols level 2, focuses on emotional and mental healing. It is especially effective for addressing stress, anxiety, and trauma.
- Appearance: Sei He Ki resembles a wave intersecting a straight line, symbolizing harmony and balance.
- Uses:
- Balancing emotions and mental clarity.
- Breaking bad habits and patterns.
- Healing emotional wounds.
How to Use It:
To use Sei He Ki, draw or visualize the symbol over the recipient’s heart or head while focusing on their emotional needs. Pair it with affirmations or intentions for emotional release and balance.
Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen – The Distance Healing Symbol
Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen is the third symbol and is introduced in Reiki symbols level 2. It enables reiki masters in Canada to send healing energy across time and space, making it a cornerstone of remote Reiki sessions.
- Appearance: This symbol is more intricate, with a combination of kanji characters symbolizing timelessness and connection.
- Uses:
- Sending Reiki energy to someone not physically present.
- Healing past traumas and setting intentions for the future.
- Bridging the energy connection between practitioner and recipient.
How to Use It:
To use Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen, visualize the symbol while meditating or during a remote healing session. Focus on the recipient’s energy, envisioning the healing energy reaching them wherever they are.
Reiki Symbols in Practice
Each Reiki session is unique, and the use of symbols depends on the practitioner’s intuition and the recipient’s needs. Here are steps to incorporate symbols effectively:
- Prepare the Space: Before beginning, cleanse your space by visualizing or drawing the Cho Ku Rei symbol to remove negative energy.
- Set Your Intention: Decide which symbol aligns with your goal. For emotional healing, use Sei He Ki. For distance healing, choose Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen.
- Activate the Symbols: Draw or visualize the chosen symbol in your mind’s eye. Pair it with a mantra or affirmation to enhance its effectiveness.
- Channel the Energy: Use your hands to direct the energy flow, allowing the symbol to act as a conduit for healing.
Differences Between Level 1 and Level 2 Symbols
- Reiki Symbols Level 1: At this stage, practitioners learn foundational concepts and the Cho Ku Rei symbol. The focus is on self-healing and practicing on others in-person.
- Reiki Symbols Level 2: Practitioners deepen their knowledge by incorporating Sei He Ki and Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen. This level enables emotional healing and distance healing, broadening the scope of Reiki practice.
The Role of Traditional Usui Reiki Symbols
The symbols in traditional Usui Reiki act as tools for transformation and connection. They provide practitioners with a structured yet intuitive framework to harness Reiki energy effectively. Whether used for personal growth or healing others, these symbols enhance the practitioner’s ability to channel universal life force energy.
Conclusion
Reiki symbols are sacred tools that empower practitioners to channel energy with precision and intention. From the foundational b to the expansive abilities of Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen in Reiki symbols level 2, these symbols open pathways to profound healing and transformation.
We incorporate these traditional Usui Reiki symbols into our Reiki Sessions in Canada to elevate the ability to bring balance, harmony, and well-being to yourself and others. As you deepen your Reiki journey, these symbols will become intuitive allies in your healing work. Embrace their energy and witness the transformative power they hold.
