Reiki symbols are used by teachers and students of the Japanese healing art of Reiki as a way to activate energy flows in the body. Students learn the symbols before or during Reiki classes, and are asked to memorize them. Each one represents a particular kind of energy. Reiki practitioners use the symbols during a session through visualizing or drawing them, or by naming them. This activates the stimulus/response process, bringing to mind the type of energy being referenced and helping the practitioner to access higher-level spiritual energies represented by each symbol. This in turn allows for a more effective and broader range of Reiki frequencies than could be reached otherwise.

 

It is traditional for Reiki symbols to be kept secret, with their meanings revealed only to those who received training. Here is a quick overview of each symbol, its meaning and usage:

 

 

 This symbol is drawn as a coil, counter-clockwise, and represents chi – the flow of energy or life force in the body. It is frequently used at the beginning of a Reiki session as a way to activate power within the body. It can be used to bless others, protect against misfortune, and eliminate negative energy from the mind and body.

 

 

This symbol looks like a cresting wave or a bird’s wing. Its name means “God and man become one.” It is related to the idea of yin and yang, or balance in all things. The left side of the symbol represents the logical left brain, and the right side represents the creative and emotional right brain. This symbol brings peace and harmony to the emotional state, and is often used to aid in healing of emotional and mental issues as well as relationships. 

 

 

This symbol is one of the most powerful Reiki symbols. It is used to send positive energy into any phase of time, past or future. It means “the origin of all is pure consciousness.” It can aid in healing of past wounds, allowing the user to take the lesson from it and move forward in life. Practitioners also use it to send positive Reiki ahead in time when facing a future situation that could be unpleasant or traumatic or simply when one wants to have a good outcome.

 

 

This is the most sacred of the Reiki symbols, and its name means “great enlightenment” or “bright shining light.” A symbol of empowerment, it has the highest vibration and the most transformational power of all the prior Reiki symbols. Reiki masters use this symbol to attune new students. It is simpler to draw then the distance symbol. It helps to heal the healer. It is said to help bring practitioners closer to God by healing the upper chakras, the lower chakras, the aura, and the whole soul of those who use it. 

 

 

The Holy Fire® symbol represents spiritual fire, and is used to clear malicious spirits, release negative energy, and promote healing. It is the most powerful Reiki symbol, representing the Holy Spirit and the practitioner’s connection to God. It provides purification, healing, empowerment, and guidance. 

 

While each of these symbols has its own use, they can also be used in combination during a Reiki session. All are tools that practitioners use to promote healing and eliminate negative energy, stress and bad feelings. The study of Reiki can help the student learn to overcome bad habits and deal with past traumas. With the subsequent increase in mental and physical energy, one is better prepared to face a chaotic world while maintaining a calm and centered spirit.

 

If you are interested in learning more about how Reiki can improve your physical, mental and spiritual health, contact us at 816-523-4440. At the Whole Life Center, we will be happy to guide you as you begin your journey of discovery.