Attunement is what makes reiki unique from other forms of healing touch and energy work. This ceremony, called Reiju (Ray-joo) in Japanese, is performed by the reiki master during each level to open and expand the main energy channels of the student’s body, allowing universal energy, also known as Qi/Chi/Ki, to flow more freely and deeply through them. It tends to clear blockages in the body and can lead to significant energy changes within the individual. Many will undergo an intense period of self-growth following their attunements. You can think of the attunement process like a transfer of energy: The master is passing energy off to the student, who will then possess it for life. While it’s possible to receive Level 1 and Level 2 training over the course of the weekend (for a few hundred dollars, depending on where you live), you can also find trainings that are stretched out over weeks or months. Typically, the reiki master degree is more intensive and takes months to receive. Here is a more detailed breakdown of the three levels of reiki and each of the attunements: Due to the intensity of the attunement process, some reiki masters recommend that at least 21 days to a full three months pass between receiving the Level 1 and Level 2 attunements (Level 1 is required to receive Level 2). It is recommended to take at least six months to one year between your Level 2 and master training, to allow the lessons you just learned to really sink in. Becoming a reiki master also represents a deep commitment to the reiki practice, and some feel that significant time should pass between achieving the Second Degree status and Master Level. Because the Master Level is taught in a wide range of methods, you should meditate on which path feels right for you and spend time and consideration in selecting a master. The reiki levels provide a general organization of the progression of reiki mastership. Because reiki courses are taught and organized in a wide variety of methods, it’s important to research and find both the format and instructor that is right for you.
