Healing Gaia:  Glossary

It is helpful to become comfortable and familiar with the language associated with our energy healing sessions. Please review these often.

Please note that the terms Universal Life Force Energy, healing energy and Reiki are essentially interchangeable.

3Panel Guide – A series of three customized and personalized panels, pieces of cardboard, notepaper or office walls depicting your life, positive attributes and goals. This is used for intensive, powerful Reiki and Gaianic healing sessions as well as for personal growth, achievement of goals and fulfillment of dreams.

Absentee Healing – A system designed to facilitate and enable doing a Reiki treatment on someone not physically present.

Absentee Symbols – The Reiki symbols used to facilitate a Reiki treatment for someone not present;
Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen.

Activating the Reiki Symbols – The Reiki symbols may be activated by thought, hand motions, visualizations, chanting, toning and by drawing them on paper.

Active Listening – A form of paraphrasing to ensure the listener that they are being heard and to demonstrate empathy.

Acupuncture – The traditional Chinese medical practice of inserting very thin needles at specific points in the body for treating pain, healing and therapeutic purposes. This is said to balance the flow and energy of our life force creating a sense of well-being, balance and overall wellness. These points are often associated with the meridians and can also be activated by shiatsu pressure, intention and Reiki.

Advanced Reiki Training (ART) – Sometimes referred to as Reiki Three or Reiki Two Advanced. This course varies with the instructor but in general takes all the concepts more in-depth and introduces the Master symbol, Dai Ko Myo.

Affirmations – Positive statements and suggestions given to the conscious mind to influence the subconscious mind and support energetic changes and influence positive outcomes.

Aimlessly Wandering – The act of walking in nature with no set path or direction with the goals of retrieving sacred items that tend to find us.

Akashic Records – The Akashic Records are an immense energetic database where every soul ever “born” has a record. The human energy body is continually transmitting information to the records in the form of what we say, feel, think, and do. Some of the most fascinating information can be found in the records. This includes: previous incarnations, life between incarnations, future incarnations, the life lessons that we have chosen for ourselves, our soul’s gifts, life purpose, soul training, and more. The information contained in the Records is the deepest level of information about a person.

Altar – A collection of items and objects that have meaning to you often used in spiritual practices; pictures, candles, items from nature or ones you make or craft. 

Anatomy and Physiology Knowledge – The study of the human body and its organs, skeleton, and all associated tissues, blood vessels and arteries. Extensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology is very helpful in the course of a Reiki and Gaianic healing session.

Ancestral Line – The personal lineage from which family patterns and beliefs from previous generations are inherited.

Angelic Realms – The dimension on an energetic level where angels reside.

Antakharana – A Reiki symbol associated with the Usui/Tibetan lineage for healing and meditation.

Ascended Masters – Spiritual mentors or attendants who guide the spiritual evolution of beings on earth as they seek to raise their personal vibrations. Some may be incarnate, others in the form of spirits and angels.

Astral Matrix/Repair – A system designed to address hibiki (energy breaks or tears) found in the aura so the issue doesn’t reach the physical body. There are numerous ways to repair the aura.

Astral Travel – The act of leaving the physical body and traveling to distant locations, often through time and space.

Astrology – The belief system that suggests divine insights and information about human affairs and terrestrial events may be learned, understood and perhaps predicted by studying the movements and relative positions of celestial objects to the events over time; the search for meaning in the sky.

Attunements – A method used to open, or attune an individual to the flow of the Reiki and all types of healing energy.

Attunements by Hand – Traditional method for opening the flow of Reiki, incorporating touch by the Reiki Master.

NOTE:  Some feel hand attunements start the initial flow at a lower vibration since it involves the touch by the Reiki Master and prefer the meditation version, referred to as Placements.

Attunements / Placements by Meditation from the Holy Fire II/Karuna ® Reiki program:

Attunement / Placements Experiences -Deep meditations to prepare the individual for their Reiki attunements, called Placements.
        NOTE: From the Holy Fire II/Karuna ® Reiki program.

Attunement / Placements Pre-Ignitions – Deep meditations to prepare the individual for their Reiki attunements, called Placements.
        NOTE: From the Holy Fire II/Karuna ® Reiki program.

Attunement / Placements Master Ignitions – Deep meditations to prepare the individual for their Reiki attunements, called Placements.
        NOTE: From the Holy Fire II/Karuna ® Reiki program.

Attunement Placements – A type of Reiki attunement using deep meditation instead of hand attunements. This method is thought to deliver the initial attunement at a higher vibration since no touching is involved. Some prefer the hands-on method.
        NOTE: From the Holy Fire II/Karuna ® Reiki program.

Auditory – Hearing and listening. A primary way people process information. “I hear you!”

Aura – An electromagnetic field of energy that surrounds the human body. The aura is a Human Energy Field (HEF). It is an electro-magnetic field of varying densities of measurable energy. There are 7 layers, each with a distinct frequency, color, set of properties and vibration. All are interrelated and affect us physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. The aura is an energy field trying to fit around the human body and varies in thickness, vitality, strength and measurable size at any given moment. It is easily replenished and enhanced with Reiki.

Aura:  Beaming (Whole Aura Reiki) – A system designed to heal the entire aura. Stand just far enough away to see the entire client and visualize and send Reiki to the entire aura and body using Gyoshi-ho (your eyes) and Koki-ho (your breath) focusing with intention on the areas or issues for treatment.

Aura:  Checking Vitality – A technique used at the beginning of a Reiki session to check the overall vitality of the client by sensing the depth, width or height of a person’s aura. This is done by raising the hands together above or at the side of the client and slowly bring them towards the individual. You are feeling for a subtle change in the density, heat or coolness of the air around them, which is generally noticed anywhere from 36” down to as few as a few inches above their body. 

Aura:  Self-Cleansing/Kenyoku – A system designed to clear the aura of any negative energy by brushing your hands from head to feet a few inches above the body with the intention of getting ready for Reiki or meditation. This is similar to dusting yourself off except you do not touch yourself.

Aura:  Smoothing – A system designed to smooth the energy of the client after any kind of energy disturbance, flow or treatment. Hold both hands close to each other and gently sweep them over the client’s body 4-8” above them going from head to toe 3-5 times.

Aura Energy Closing – A system designed to open and close the aura for an enhanced Reiki energy treatment. To close: If the client is facing up, perform this counter clockwise. If the client is facing down, go clockwise. Start with the top of the head and the trans personal spot. Palm facing away from the head, gently push outwards, feeling for the trans personal energy spot. Then palm facing towards the body, swing your hand clockwise or counter clockwise as appropriate to below the feet, then up to the Crown, downwards to the knees, up to the Brow, down to the Root, up to the Throat, down to the Sacrum, to the Spleen, up to the High Heart, down to the Solar Plexus, and finally to the Heart. Raise your dominant hand high enough to slip your other hand in between the hand and the client’s body and draw a cho ku rei with the upper hand, and gently raise them one at a time trying not to disturb the energy stack you have made.

Aura Energy Opening – A system designed to open and close the aura for an enhanced Reiki energy treatment. Opening is done in a clockwise spiral if the client is laying on their back. Start with the Heart, open hand, fingers together, palm facing down. From the Heart go rotate down clockwise to the Solar Plexus, up to the High Heart, down to the Spleen, to the Sacrum, up to the Throat, down to the Root chakra, up to the Brow, down to the knees, up to the Crown, down to the bottoms of the feet, and finally up to the Trans Personal Spot an inch above the Crown. Turn the hand palm facing away from the head and gently expand and push the aura outwards away from the head approx. 2-3 feet.

Bardo – Literally, “The time between two shores”; the time spent from actual death to awareness of transition.

Beaming – A process used to send healing Reiki energy to a client while standing away from them.

Benefits – Reiki will reduce stress, aids in overall relaxation, develops emotional, physical, mental and spiritual well-being. 

Body Pendulum – Stand or sit straight up with no support. Ask a series of easy true and false or yes or no questions to gage the amount of swaying your body will do; forward for yes and backwards for a no. Once you have a good baseline established you can use the body pendulum for any situation where a yes, no, positive or false answer needs to be known. Hold a thought in your mind; ask a question out loud. Hold a crystal at the appropriate chakra location; hold a piece of fruit to your chest to see if it is ripened to the way you prefer.  Experiment to get an idea of how this works, because it does. Extending one arm outwards and holding it with a slight stiff resistance can be done as well, but you need an assistant for this method. The assistant gently holds the arm at a joint and presses downward gently to gage the resistance. The less resistance, the truer the answer.

Brain Waves – Alpha, slowest, resting by still awake, often associated with the start of hypnosis or a Shamanic Journey trance; Beta, the normal awake state; Delta, a deep sleep state; Theta, takes one from consciousness to deep sleep, ideal for deep hypnosis and Shamanic Journey. Theta activity can be brought on by rhythmic drumming.

Breathing: Koki-ho with Breath and Symbols – Drawing the Reiki symbols with your tongue and gently blowing on the area of intention and focus as part of the Reiki treatment is thought to be helpful to the session.

Breathwork- Breathwork refers to the conscious choice of changing the number and pattern of your breaths with the intention of healing, creating overall greater awareness, relaxation, to gain more energy, increased clarity and focus on something specific or allowing your consciousness to enter an altered state.

Brow Chakra – Also called the Third Eye, this is the sixth chakra, located on the forehead in between the eye brows. The associated color is indigo, musical key is A; the sound is om.

Byosen – A Japanese term for the negative energy associated with a disease; used in Byosen scanning.

Byosen Reikan Ho – A technique to scan the entire body using your hands to detect illness or negative energy.

Camay – To use the breath; to blow energy.

Celestial Doorway – The access point or opening to the higher spiritual realms and dimensions, often found through deep meditation and dreams.

Cellular Memory – The attitudes, beliefs, issues, traumas and patterns imprinted or ingrained within each cell that creates and influences an individual’s present-day reality.

Chakras:  Definition – Sanskrit for “wheel”. There are seven main chakras. There are 88,000 minor chakras in the human body; there are 40 secondary chakras located in the spleen, back of the neck, the palms of your hands, the soles of your feet as well as in every joint. The main seven chakras we focus on are the key energy centers within the human body that help regulate and support us physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. It has been suggested that there are other chakras above and below the human body in the aura. The chakras are associated with colors, sounds, vibrations, crystals, as well as issues and ailments of a physical, emotional, mental and spiritual nature.    

Chakra:  Alignment – A method used to align the chakras by use of a dowsing pendulum and specific Reiki hand placements. The pendulum is used to determine if the chakra is out of alignment by holding it over each chakra and looking for the correct directional spin, and if necessary, the Reiki practitioner places their receiving hand on the bridge of the client’s nose, and their sending hand over the client’s root chakra to realign them. 

Chakra:  Balancing– A method employed to detect and correct any imbalances in the directional spin or misalignment of the chakras. A pendulum may be used to detect the proper spin and alignment by holding it a few inches above the chakra. Balancing is achieved by placing one hand over the root chakra and the other on the bridge of the nose, thumb and ring finger together; holding a hand over the individual chakras; sending Reiki with eyes or breath; or slow scanning movements on multiple chakras at the same time. Try all of these to see and sense what works for you. You can feel when an energy correction has been achieved. This takes practice.

Chakra:  Cleansing – A method used to cleanse the chakras by use of Hado Kokyo-Ho vibrational breathing. Vibrational breathing uses the powerful haa sound as you exhale to relieve and release lower vibrational energies inside us which in turn raises our internal vibrational energy. This has a direct effect on the chakras allowing them to cleanse themselves.

Chakra:  Colors– ROY G. BIV is a useful name to help remember the chakra colors. Red for the Root chakra, Orange for the Sacral chakra, Yellow for the Solar Plexus chakra, Green for the Heart chakra, Blue for the Throat chakra, Indigo for the Brow chakra and Violet for the Crown chakra.

Chakra:  Crystals – Each chakra has a wide variety of crystals associated with them. There are helpful charts and books for learning these.

Chakra:  Directional Spin – Each chakra has a distinct directional spin, alternating from clockwise to counter clockwise. In traditional Chinese teaching, clockwise is male, or Yang, and counterclockwise is female, or Ying, allowing for the male and female energies to interact and complement each other. For the man, the Root starts as clockwise and alternates up to the Crown accordingly. Therefore, it would follow Sacral is counterclockwise, Solar Plexus is clockwise, Heart is counterclockwise, Throat is clockwise, the Brow is counterclockwise and the Crown is clockwise. For the woman, the Root is counterclockwise, the Sacral is clockwise, the Solar Plexus is counterclockwise, the Heart is clockwise, the Throat is counterclockwise, the Brow is clockwise and the Crown is counterclockwise.

Chakra:  Emotional Treatment – Each chakra has a specific set of emotional issues associated with them for suggested focus during a Reiki treatment.

Chakra:  Essential Oils – Each chakra is aligned and associated with specific essential oils for suggested use during a Reiki treatment.

Chakra:  Healing Treatments – Learn and master all the combinations of associated crystals, sounds, colors, essential oils, organs, meridians and emotional issues to create the best Reiki treatment possible.

Chakra:  Musical Notes – All the chakras have an associated musical note or key and sound for use in chanting and toning. Root- C, the sound is OHHH…Sacral-D, the sound is OOO….Solar Plexus-E, the sound is AAAHHH….Heart-E, the sound is AYYYE…..Throat-F, the sound is EEEE….Brow-G, the sound is OM…..Crown is A, but the sound is silent.

Chakra:  Physical Treatment – Each chakra is aligned and associated with specific organs to focus on during a Reiki treatment.

Channel – An individual who is able to send energy through themselves to another, in the case with Reiki, emanating through their hands.

Channeling – A fairly common form of communication between people and non-physical entities. These may be angelic beings, spirits from nature, animals, pets and even humans that have passed over to other realms. Think of a channeler as an interpreter or messenger. A channeler senses non-verbal communication and translates it to the written word, a drawing, a sculpture, music or verbally. There are no limits to the forms of communication that a channeler might use. Everyone has the ability to channel. Daydreams are the way most people first start to open their channeling abilities. Some channelers experience a trance-like experience while channeling. Once your channel is open and a vibrational link has been established you can choose to channel or not. The entity wishing to communicate with the channeler lets them know they are willing and the flow of non-verbal information begins to flow. It comes in at a high vibrational, high sensory frequency level and is then converted into either language, art, music, words or signals. Many channelers claim to be able to communicate with and channel the same entity, such as Archangel Michael.

Chanting – Repetitive singing of a phrase or word to increase its vibration during a Reiki or Gaianic healing.

Chanting and Toning – Chanting and toning are the conscious creation of sounds using words or specific notes for the purpose of healing, communication or pleasure.

Chi – This is the Chinese word for energy, often spelled as qi. In Japanese, it is called ki.

Cho Ku Rei – The definitive Power Symbol, Energizing/vortex. This Reiki symbol may be used to enhance anything you are doing, whether it is with Reiki or not. It adds power to your intention. It is ideal for us in a Reiki or a Gaianic healing treatment.  

Cho Ku Rei Box – Drawing the Cho Ku Rei symbols in the form of a box with the intention of adding power in, on or around something, whether it is a thought or a physical object.

Circadian Rhythms – The body’s biological clock that can be used for peak healing sessions once an individual is tuned into theirs.

Circle of Earth – A type of Shamanic Journey to facilitate healing by finding appropriate places, people, incidents and times associated with the past that hold meaning.

Clairaudience – A form of physic feeling whereby one can sense or feel things normally intangible to the physical self.

Clairvoyance – A form of physic vision whereby one can see things that are usually not visible to the physical self, often referred to as visions.

Client Intake Forms – The traditional paperwork forms associated in the medical community for collecting information on a client.

Collective Unconscious – Everyone has their own unique unconscious mind, but also shares some elements of everyone else’s; a type of group thought and awareness.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) – Healing options that support and compliment traditional western medicinal therapies. These include but are not limited to herbs, Reiki, massage, essential oils and homeopathy.

Consciousness – An awareness of our own mental processes; thoughts, sensations, feeling, responsible of logic, willpower, reasoning and decision making.

Cosmic Awareness – A very high state of consciousness whereby one can sense nonphysical, divine energies and dimensions.

Creative Visualization – A purposeful process of creating visual imagery with intention associated with feeling, emotions, ideas and goals.

Crown Chakra – The seventh chakra, located on the top of the head. The associated color is violet; the musical note is the key of B, but it is silent. The energy center is the brain and the pineal gland and spiritual consciousness.

Crystals – A substance that has formed into regular, beautiful crystalline symmetrical shapes, often used in electronics, jewelry, and for healing. Crystals are purported to have distinct qualities associated with them, and are formed deep in the Earth over the millennia under intense heat and pressure. Reiki loves crystals.

Crystals for Personal Use – Chosen for specific attributes, colors, shapes, sizes and healing qualities. It is said that the crystals will choose you. Using the body pendulum is a wonderful technique for this purpose.

Crystal Grid – After charging the crystals as appropriate, place them in a grid arranged with specific intention. This can be programmed for continuously sending of Reiki energy.

Crystal Healing Knowledge with Clients – One can study crystals their entire lifetime and still not know enough to truly make the best use of them. This can only be done with intentional practice.

Dai Ko Mei Oh: The Master Symbol – This Reiki symbol is the strongest of the Reiki symbols and is used to create the best outcomes for your thoughts, intentions and desires. It is called the fourth Usui Reiki symbol, sometimes spelled Dai Ko Myo.

Dancing – Movement of the body often set to a tempo, beat, cadence or a rhythm. It can be choreographed, done spontaneously, with or without a partner or group, and does not require any accompanying music or instruments.

Dantien – Located atop the Sacral Chakra, this is a small rotating, sphere of resonating energy, a storehouse for creative energy.

Denial – A classic defense mechanism which can prevent healing energy from producing optimum outcomes.

Dento Reiki (traditional Usui)-The original Japanese reiki organization of Masters is often referred to as Dento Reiki. Their goal is to preserve and practice the traditional Usui methods.

Depression – A mood disorder or feeling characterized by extended periods of sadness and hopelessness.

Devic Kingdom – The dimension or realm where the Devas reside, where they rule over all things natural, such as trees, mountains, rivers, forests and lakes. While said to be invisible, some clairvoyants are able to communicate with them through intuitive thoughts.

Dialog with Past Selves – A type of Shamanic Journey to meet with and discuss issues and experiences with your past selves.

Dis-ease – A state of being and discomfort on the physical, mental, emotional or spiritual plane that is a direct result of an imbalance with one’s blocked feelings, suppressed emotions and negativity. This results in a lowering of the vibrations allowing diseases to take root. All diseases are an initial result of some form of dis-ease on the emotional, mental or spiritual plane.

Distant/Absent Treatments Words: Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen – Five Japanese kanji symbols that are translated as “No past, no present, no future”, or “Correct thought and mindfulness is the true essence of beingness”.  This series of words are often spoken out loud or with silent intent to call in a person’s energy to perform a Reiki treatment, or to send the Reiki energy to an individual or animal at a remote or distant location.

NOTE:  You may use distant healing for groups, individuals, for the future and the past. You can send Reiki for a future trip, vacation or virtually any situation. Since Reiki is a form of energy, it responds to your intention with no restrictions on the future or the past, animate or inanimate objects, or the size and scope of the situation.

Distant Healing: Enkaku Chiryo – A system designed to facilitate and enable doing a Reiki treatment on someone not present. It can also be used on yourself for hard to reach spots for self-treatment.

Double Cho Ku Rei – Often called the Kriya, it is a nontraditional Reiki symbol. Two Cho Ku Reis face each other, one in reverse.

Druidry – An ancient native spiritual tradition that promotes harmony, veneration, respect, connection and reverence for the natural world; to develop inner wisdom.

Drumming – The act of continuous striking of a surface with your hand or another object to create a rhythmic sound.

Drusy – An ancient native spiritual tradition that promotes harmony, veneration, respect, connection and reverence for the natural world; to develop inner wisdom.

Earth Chakra – The chakra located just below the feet which is thought to hold and connect the incarnated soul of the Earth, essentially linking the physical body to it.

Earthing – Earthing is the action of connecting to the physical earth for the purpose of grounding, feeling the Earth energy and healing; to walk barefoot on the earth.

Ego – A critical part of the personality that helps us deal with reality by acting as a mediator between the desires and demands of the id, super ego and our environment; a moral compass that creates our individual personas, habits, choices and beliefs.

Elements – Air, Earth, Water, Fire, Wind, Aether.

Emotion Code – A gentle, non-invasive energetic approach to work with the subconscious mind to understand emotions that are tucked away, releasing the negative ones that we no longer need that are inhibiting personal growth, happiness and well being.

Energetic Cords – Deeply ingrained unconscious patters of thought; emotional baggage.

Energy – The Three Heavens:  an explanation of the three levels of consciousness and thought where energy resides and all form and  matter are manifested. Level One, or the First Heaven is visible to all, and consists of everything we can see, touch and feel. Level Two, or the Second Heaven is accessed in our dream state and is populated by all our our spirit guides and all of our thoughts, good, bad and indifferent, selfish, helpful, harmful or loving. This level is easily accessed through dreams and meditation. Level Three, the Third Heaven is thought to be the realm of God and only accessed by pure thoughts of good intentions and love. Nothing negative or harmful can exist at the Third Heaven.

Energy Balancing – There are numerous methods for balancing your energy using Reiki. Use your hands to feel for imbalances and Reiki the area for several minutes. Reiki will flow and naturally bring balance back to the area. With practice you can learn to feel the subtle energy changes.

Energy Healing – A series of alternative and complimentary healing systems available to everyone based on a belief that vital, healing energy flows through the body, channeled from a universal source.

Energy Healing Books – Simply put, read a many different ones as you can. There are countless to choose from.

Energy Medicine – A form of CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) that diagnoses and treats the body with the use of energy, such as Reiki.

Energy:  Negative – A sensation or feeling of being depressed, unhappy, sad or uncertain. Negative thoughts produce negative energy resulting in negative outcomes. Negative energy can be felt and absorbed at any moment, but can easily be cleared away.

Energy:  Positive – A sensation of joy, bliss, happiness and success. Positive thoughts produce positive energy resulting in positive outcomes. Positive energy can be created and produced at any time.

Energy Mixing Issues: Reiki energy and success are tied to the intention. There is no reported harm or danger with the mixing of Reiki from different styles, lineages or schools. No one has ever lost their attunement or not been able to channel Reiki after attending different schools or working with different teachers. While there may be reports of this happening it is most likely caused by an illness or an incorrect original attunement.

Enkaku Chiryo Ho – A form of distant healing using photographs.

Enlightenment (Satori) – Awakening, understanding “all that is” as in enlightenment; a spiritual rebirth to recognize and see one’s true nature and essence. To attain a high and consistent level of vibration.

Eros – The life instinct.

Essence or Crystal Infused Water – The energetic vibrations of a crystal can be transferred to spring water, placed in sunlight for activation and used for healing purposes.

Essential Oils – A concentrated hydrophobic liquid containing volatile aroma compounds from plants. They are also known as volatile oils, aethereal oils and aetherolea, or simply as “oil from the plants”. They all include a characteristic of a strong scent or aroma. They are used primarily in the perfume, flavors and pharmaceutical industries, and now, for healing and Reiki.

Etheric Blueprint – A physical mapping of our past-life dis-eases and/or injuries which carry over from one life to another which can manifest and result in a present-life disability or illness.

Etheric Body – The aura or bio magnetic field of vibrational energy that surrounds the body and allows access to different levels of awareness, insights, growth, understanding and healing.

Existentialism – The concept that people have free will and a desire to live with an authentic existence with freedom of choice in their daily decisions.

External Locus of Control – The idea or concept that there are times when there is no free will and we have no control; we are not masters of our domain or fate.

Eyes. Gyoshi-ho – Use of one’s eyes during a Reiki treatment can be very effective. Stare and send Reiki energy with focus and intention, visualizing Reiki symbols as appropriate at the area of treatment or issue at hand. 

First Degree Reiki – Often called Reiki One, this is the first introduction to Reiki. Basic hand placements, the history or Reiki and elementary topics on chakras, energy healing and meditation are introduced. It is said to produce approximately 25% of the channeling ability of a Reiki Master. However, many believe that the amount of Reiki a practitioner channels is in direct proportion to the amount of Reiki being practiced on a daily or weekly basis.

Focus – Paying attention to the key aspect of your intention in a healing session.

Framing – The use of ideas and words and how something is presented to us.

Frequency – For our Reiki and Gaianic healing energy purposes, we are looking at the number of complete oscillations as in the pendulum swing from one extreme to another. This can be noted as waves, points, forms and movements within an electromagnetic field. Similar to a flow of electricity from one extreme to another. This is thought to allow for thoughts to become form. The lower the density, or frequency, the heavier our problems and burdens feel, the more stuck we feel. The higher the frequency, or less dense, the lighter we feel. Hence the association with negative energy (heavier) versus positive energy (lighter). The goal is to raise our vibration, or frequency so we feel better.

Gassho – Placement of the hands together in front of the breast or heart; used to express gratitude and to call in the Reiki energy. It is often called the prayer position.

Gateways – Portals or openings connecting one energetic realm to another; subliminal pathways for conscious and unconscious travel or movement of spirit, energy and self.

Geopathic Stress – Energy disturbances derived from man-made power lines, waterlines and naturally occurring negative energy lines, sometimes referred to as ley lines. These may contribute to a form of geo-stress and become a type of pollution affecting people, buildings and the land itself. It contributes to many different types of dis-eases and stress.

Giho – The techniques, methods and exercises used to purify inner Reiki and heighten or strengthen the Reiki we resonate with.

Grids or Gridding – The creation of specific interlacing lines for use with crystal and sacred objects. These can be used to enhance, protect or ground a person, place or object. It may also be used to project power and healing.

Grounding – The final stage of a Reiki treatment consisting of holding the feet in some fashion. Ideally, direct contact with the bottoms of the feet works best, but any method of being close to the feet appears to work.

Guides – Someone who assists us in our travels, personal growth or journey. Guides in Reiki and Gaianic healing sessions are often to be thought of as spiritual in nature and communicate with us in our dreams and meditations. They are in a disincarnate form and are thought to be protectors, assistants, healers, gatekeepers, messengers, teachers and connectors to other dimensions. Some are thought to be helpful and other mischievous.

Gustatory – This refers to our sense of taste, a form of sensory input. “That left a bad taste in my mouth.”

Gyoshi Ho – Sending Reiki with the eyes to an afflicted area for healing purposes.

Hado – Wave, vibration, energy wave

Hado Kokyu Ho – Vibrational breathing using the haa sound as you exhale for lengthening periods of time. It helps to relieve lower vibrational energies inside us which in turn raises our internal vibrational energy.

Hallucination – A sensation that can be visual, auditory, olfactory, gustatory or kinesthetic that has no basis in reality, yet feels real and true to the individual at the time.

Halu – A nontraditional Reiki symbol used for healing purposes.

Hand Positions – The origins of the hand positions date back to Hawaya Takata and Chujiro Hayashi and have been altered and adjusted by many Reiki practitioners. The body is said to be broken up into three general patterns, with eighteen hand positions. These are taught in Reiki One. Many Reiki practitioners create alternate hand positions as they follow the energy and adjust to the needs of the client.

Hara– Sometimes called the tanden, abdomen or belly, it is considered by some as a storing place for great amounts of energy.

Hatsurei Ho – The training methods and techniques, or Giho, given to us by Usui to strengthen and enhance our inner Reiki. Associated with Kenyoku Ho, Joshin Kokyu Ho and Seishin Toitsu.

Hayashi, Chujiro, 1880-1940 – He is generally considered to be Mikao Usui’s principal student. He was a medical doctor and developed a medical approach to the practice of Reiki. He trained Hawaya Takata who is credited with bringing Reiki to the United States after WW ll.

Hayashi Treatment Guide– Hayashi Ryoho Shishin, this is a treatment guide divided into 9 sections listing a series of suggested Reiki treatments Chujiro Hayashi wrote for his students.

Healing Reactions – Some people have a sense of uncomfortable overwhelming energy, a type of unpleasant reaction. This is normal and usually passes quickly. Grounding helps.

Healing Symbols – Pictures, drawings or a sequence of letters and numbers used to call in or invoke healing energy.

Healing Tools – The various implements, devices, utensils or appliances brought into use during an energy healing session.

Heart Chakra – This is the fourth chakra, located in the chest just above the Solar Plexus. It is associated with the color green; the musical key is F; the sound is aye.

Herbalism – Herbalism is the study and use of herbs for their healing properties. Herbs are found everywhere in nature and all part of the plant may be used. Herbalists have studied the uses of herbs to help support wellness. Herbalists intention is to treat the underlying causes of a condition rather than the symptoms alone.

Hibiki – A Japanese term which translates as “echo”. It is used to reflect what one feels when scanning for energy breaks in the aura of a Reiki client. An energy break suggests an anomaly reflecting something is amiss physically, emotionally, mentally or spiritually in the client, yet it cannot be seen visually, hence the term “echo”. Hibiki may be felt as anything different than what you sense and feel as you hold your hand over the ground. Heat, coolness, a spark, a thickness or a lightness, essentially anything that is different. Hibiki is said to be the sensations you feel when you sense negative energy with your hands.

Higher Self – The spirit self, a part of the human self, often called the divine self or divine essence.

Hikari No Kokyu Ho – A form of meditative Light Breathing that restores one’s resonance with Reiki when negative thoughts arise or are felt. White Light enters via the crown and proceeds to expand and exit through the entire body.

Holy Fire II Karuna®Reiki – A recent system of Reiki developed by William Rand of the ICRT. It includes attunement by meditation instead of touching by the Reiki Master Teacher, called Placements as well as a unique series of nontraditional healing Reiki symbols.

Homeopathy – A system of healing using diluted, minute amounts of a substance that stimulates the symptoms of a disease in order to stimulate the body’s natural healing powers. First practiced by the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates and reintroduced by the German doctor Samuel Hahnemann in modern times.

Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen:  Distant/Remote Symbol – The third Usui symbol, these series of symbols are used for absent/distant Reiki sessions but can be used to call in or send any kind of energetic thoughts, wishes and communications.

1. Hon – Root, origin, source, essence, basis, real, present, book, main, true
2. Sha – Someone, an individual, a person, animal, object
3. Ze – Proper, just, exactly this, right, correct
4. Sho – Justice, exactly, righteous, correct
5. Nen (strong will) – Mindfulness, wish, concern, sense, idea, attention, thought, feeling, desire; as used with Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen for absent and distant Reiki treatments.

Huaca – Any item used to help the movement of energy in a healing session, often a small stone or item of nature, often found while “aimlessly wandering”; anything considered sacred or holding meaning to you.

Hui Yin Contraction – Often referred to as the microcosmic orbit. A process used to hold and create a circuit of energy within the body by squeezing the muscles between your rectum and genitals while putting the tongue behind your teeth on the roof of your mouth.

Hypnosis – A temporary altered state of consciousness; a state of heightened relaxation and awareness of the ego.

Id – Part of our personality associated with inborn biological urges which seek immediate gratification.

Intake Form/Questions – A series of questions used to ascertain the issues and needs with a Reiki client. Documentation creates a way to track and measure the success of the Reiki protocols and treatment choices.

Intention – The purpose or goal associated with a Reiki or a Gaianic healing session, preceded by thought and followed by action. Intention is perhaps the most important aspect of a energy healing session; the act or instance and determination associated with a given action through mental thought. What do you intend to do with certain actions and knowledge? What to focus on?  

Internal Locus of Control – The idea and belief that one is in control of their life and the master of their fate or domain.

Intrusions – An energetic block that is preventing wellness and healing.

Intuition – A gut feeling suggesting something to you, often associated with a mental image or insight or physical sensation. Inspirations often come from our gut feelings of intuition. Our intuition is our inner guide and trusted voice of reason when it is innocent and free from our subliminal distractions and outside influences. Our intuition is our instincts at work, offering insights without conscious reasoning. It is often referred to as a gut feeling. It can warn us of danger, guide us when we are lost or confused, and help us to make good decisions. Our intuition draws upon our collective past experiences and combines them with our core strengths and our goals in an effort to guide us on the path we have set in our hearts. This is our past, present and future working in symbiotic bliss. Our instincts and intuition play a pivotal role in virtually every accomplishment, decision and choice we make. We rely on our intuition perhaps more than anything else in our lives. Your intuition is YOU telling YOU what to do in order to solve a problem or attain a goal. Our intuition rarely leads us astray.

Instincts – A natural set or pattern of behaviors unique to a biological species.

Jaki – Energy within you that has become negative through stagnation, or mixed with anger, guilt or hatred.

Jakikiri Joka Ho – A method used to cleanse crystals and inanimate objects. A series of focused “karate chops” are used in quick succession over the object in question; an energy clearing method used to eliminate negative energy. With Reiki focus and intention swing your wide-open hand, fingers pressed together in a swift chopping motion slicing it through the air, snapping it at the wrist. Do this several times towards the intended object, room or space.

Joshin Kokyu Ho – A form of deep breathing meditation to help with your focus.

Kabbalah – According to Judaism, a mystical set of esoteric writings, teachings and beliefs meant to explain the relationship between the eternal, immortal God and God’s creation, the mortal, finite universe; an ancient spiritual wisdom; that which is received, perfection of the self.

Kanji – Chinese characters associated with Reiki that are also used in the Japanese language.

Karma – A belief system pertaining to past lives as in the form of energetic debts, guilt or things to pay back or correct in the present life before one may move forward and grow. It is thought to include a continual, causal process of balance, growth and understanding.

Kenyoku Ho – A form of dry bathing to help cleanse the body of negative energy or to prepare yourself for Reiki.

Ki – Japanese for energy; chi in Chinese.

Kinesthetic Sense – The tactile aspect of our sensations; feeling everything through the body, joints, muscles, organs and skin. “That feels fine, or that feels creepy.”

Kiri – A chopping motion used by a flat hand similar in motion to a quick “karate style chop” used in energy cleansing for nonliving items.

Kirlian Photography – A unique type of photography which allows you to see the aura.

Koki Ho – A powerful healing technique used to bring Reiki to areas that would generally be untouchable such as open wounds, burns or resent cuts and abrasions. Especially effective when you draw a healing symbol on the roof of your mouth and add a vibrational hum or sound.

Kokoro (Mind Energy) – A Japanese term that speaks to the notions of heart, spirit, soul and mind as they connect together. These are seen as “one”, with no separateness.  

Kokoro – The main essence that drives the emotions within the body as they relate to heart, feelings, spirit, faith, personality, consciousness, intuition and ideas.

Kotodama – Similar to a mantra. Words that carry spirit, a Kotodama is a word or phrase repeated as many times as needed to help you maintain your intention and focus. It can be sung, in a rhythm, monotone or at various pitches to match the musical key for a chakra.

Kundalini – The vital life force lying dormant within every human being coiled at the base of the spine since birth waiting to be awakened. It is a primal yet spiritual energy. It may be activated by spiritual practices, focused breathing, meditation, Reiki, yoga, a profound life event or mental and physical stimulation. It is the source of healing, creativity, spiritual insights and virtually everything where energy is required for action and support of goals. Kundalini activation is considered vital for those on a path to attain enlightenment, or Satori.

Kundalini Attunement – A system to help awaken the Kundalini within an individual through deep meditation.

Kundalini Tantric – Using the kundalini force from our sexuality center to focus on other areas for healing or spiritual intentions and focus is very powerful. It is often referenced as dealing with and awakening Shakti, the Goddess. Our sexual center is the safest place to increase and store our kundalini energy as it is the only center with a release valve, the orgasm. If the kundalini energy can be awakened and then stored and not released by orgasm, it is said that we can then direct it to other areas and for other purposes such as healing or spiritual enlightenment. This is done by light, erotic, sensual touching, caressing and purposeful stimulation with strong focused intention on healing a specific ailment or issue.

Kythe – A term used to describe the two-way process of exchanging information with higher beings.

Lemuria – An ancient civilization thought to predate Atlantis.

Ley Lines – Powerful unseen energy lines that a thought to connect ancient energetic sites throughout the earth. These are often in the form of a spiral but can also be straight in the design of a grid.

Libido – Part of the Id, our sexual urges and desires.

Light Breathing – A form of meditation involving the breath to expand consciousness and bring in healing energy.

Light Library – The place where all healing knowledge resides, available to all who seek it at the right levels of awareness.

Lightworkers – All beings who are on the path to heal themselves and other using positive energy, love and intention, such as Reiki Practitioners.

Lineages of Reiki – The traditional Reiki lineage starts with Usui-Hayashi-Takata. There are many offshoots depending on what you read and who you choose to believe. The true origins of energy healing? There is no definitive proof since energy was here long before anyone called it Reiki. Mikao Usui is considered the founder of Reiki in Japan.

Linking Awareness – A system designed to help transfer extra healing energy from one area of the body to a depleted area that needs the extra energy.

Literal Suggestions – A positive statement that can be used for healing purposes.

Mantra:  Kotodama – Words that carry spirit, a mantra is a word or phrase repeated as many times as appropriate to help you maintain your intention and focus. It can be sung, in a rhythm, monotone or at various pitches to match the musical key for a chakra.

Massage – The manipulation of tissue by rubbing, kneading, tapping or stretching with the hands or an instrument for relaxation or therapeutic purposes. Reiki and massage complement each other.

Matrix – The various layers of bedrock within the earth where all crystals lie in their natural state. There are powerful energetic pathways within the matrix that can be tapped into for healing purposes.

Medical Degrees – An official certificate based upon a defined course of studies usually requiring a state or national test. These are highly regulated and often take many years to obtain.

NOTE:  Do not practice any type of medicine or regulated diagnostics and healing if you are not fully qualified with a certificate suitable for framing.

Meditation – A technique whereby the individual sits quietly and focuses their mind on a particular object, event, thought, activity or their breath in order to obtain a clear mental state; to reflect or contemplate deeply on something in a sustained manner.

Meditation w/ Breathing Haa – Haa is an exhalation sound which when used in meditation is thought to raise one’s vibration, resulting in a deeper meditative state. Haa can be used softly or with vigor to actually create a feeling of vibration in the body. The duration of the exhalation with Haa is often increased with each breath.

Meditation w/Energy Movements w/Haa – When specific Reiki hand movements are included with meditation and Haa breathing, it helps to open us up to receiving the flow of the Reiki healing energy. These movements include kenyoku, or self-cleansing of the aura.

Meridians – The interconnecting pathways through which the body’s life energy force flows. There are twelve standard or principle meridians with 649 points associated with them. They all have a Yin and a Yang aspect associated with them. All of these intersect with or connect to every organ and part of the body and can be used for healing purposes with a Reiki treatment. These are also referred to as the places, paths or routes to find the acupressure or acupuncture points. Reiki helps to open blocked points on the meridians.

Miasm – A term used to describe a diseases’s subtle imprint that seems to be passed down through generations to family members when no other rational reasons seem correct.

Mindfulness – The practice of paying attention to what is present in your life in any given moment; the art of being present with no distractions; being aware of the Now and giving it your undivided attention. Reiki helps you with the practice of Mindfulness.

Mood Disorders – When someone has wide mood swings and difficulty focusing on the feelings.

Mount Karuma – The mountain where Mikao Usui did a 21-day meditation and is said to have received the original Reiki symbols, thus inspiring him to bring healing Reiki to Japan.

Music 432 Hz – The human body’s frequency is 432 Hz. Most recorded music is at 440 Hz, making for a subtle disconnect with our vibration if played during a Reiki session. Music at 432 Hz resonates with our vibration and opens us up to the healing energies and frequency and vibrations of a Reiki treatment.

Music and Sound – The vibrations and frequencies, tones, notes, rhythms, harmonies, melodies and sounds of music and musical instruments as enhanced healing modalities.

Negative Energy:   Jacki-Kiri Joka-Ho – A method used to cleanse crystals and inanimate objects. A series of focused “karate chops” are used in quick succession over the object in question; an energy clearing method used to eliminate negative energy. With Reiki focus and intention swing your wide-open hand, fingers pressed together in a swift chopping motion slicing it through the air, snapping it at the wrist. Do this several times towards the intended object, room or space.

Nen – An ego-based desire, a strong will or emotional force associated with intense concentration and intention. It is suggested we do not use this during Reiki treatments as it tends to be associated with selfish, ego-based thoughts. Keep it about the client, and not the Reiki practitioner.

Nentatsu Ho – A deprogramming method used for changing habits and empowering affirmations; a thought technique incorporated prior to a Reiki treatment to ensure your intentions are pure, filled with love, harmony and purity. It is the opposite of Nen sometimes referred to as Seiheki Chiryo Ho.

Neuro Pathways – The creation of the pathways leading to the brain generated by our thoughts, creating good and bad, positive and negative habits and behaviors; we are what we think, we become what we think.

Neuro Linguistic Programming – NLP takes advantage of and maximizes our effective patterns of human communication; how we see it, describe it to ourselves with our senses, filter it and form our belief and values, thus influencing our actions.

Occlusion – Cloudy patches, spots or ghost-like images that appear in a crystal, often affecting the color. They do not impact the power of the crystal, but do affect the aesthetic appearance.

Okuden – Japanese for Reiki Two.

Olifactory – Our sense of smell, a primary way we process information. “This smeall pretty fishy to me, something’s not right.”

Om – A chanting sound used in meditation and now with Reiki associated with the sixth chakra. It is referred to as the “sound of the universe”. It is also a Sanskrit symbol.

OOBE – OOBE, or an out of body experience is the feeling of being physically detached from your body, sometimes being able to observe it with a sensation of floating; astral travel; astral projection; lucid dreaming.

Optimism Plus – A company specializing in the mind-body-spirit connection associated with all-things positive and optimistic in practice, nature, intention, thought and action.

Oversoul – The members of a soul group that resonate at a higher vibration and frequency, often directing and affecting the spiritual progress the group makes.

Panic Attack – Intense episodes of anxiety.

Parasympathetic Nervous System – Part of the autonomic nervous system, whose main function is to conserve and restore our energy for when we need it; slows breathing, plus rate and helps us sleep.

Past Life Journey – A type of Shamanic Journey to explore significant past lives.

Peak Experience – A feeling of self-actualization; being one with the universe and all-that-is.

Pendulum/Dowsing – A method to define answers to many questions, to determine if something is present, often associated with searching for water, minerals, energy vibrations or lost items. It has been adapted to supply simple yes and no answers with Reiki. A pendulum can be your body, hand-held rods, or a simple weight or crystal tied to a string.

Phobias – Unsound or illogical fears of something.

Pleochroic – Used to describe a crystal that appears to have two or more colors or shades of colors.

Portal – A gateway of energy that allows the various vibrations to interact in such a way so the non-physical and the material may transport or transfer in-between places within the matrix.

Positive Thinking – The practice and art of seeing the best in everything despite the presence of possible negative outcomes.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder – An intense anxiety disorder triggered by a past event with often crippling emotional, mental or physical results in any given moment.

Practitioner – In Reiki, this is someone who has studied and uses at least the first degree of Reiki and has had some training. Upon obtaining the Master level, they are referred to as a Reiki Master. Everyone below the Master level is called a Practitioner.

Pranic Energy – From the Sanskrit word Prana, meaning breath, this is the core energy that is everywhere and is a focus for revitalizing and healing by energy workers.

Prayer – A solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God, your spiritual guides, nature, your higher self or an object of worship.

Present Tense Thoughts – A form of creative visualization where you project a future event in the form of the present tense. Example:  If you are suffering from an illness, instead of saying “I want to be healthy”, you state and process the thought as “I am healthy”. This sets in motion a series of options and choices for you to direct things. These come to us in the form of intuitive ideas, options and possibilities. Choose wisely and trust in your instincts.

Psychic – The ability to see, hear, sense or know things unseen or unknown to others.

Psychic Attack – Negative, harmful or malevolent thoughts directed at another, either consciously or unconsciously which can result in disruption, harm, illness or an accident in an individual or group.

Psychic Vampires – One who feeds off of or draws energy from another, usually without their knowledge or consent.

Radionics – The field of study suggesting that dis-ease can be detected through its energetic field of distortion at any distance due to its electromagnetic field, developed by Dr. Albert Abrams.

Raku – This is a nontraditional symbol sometimes used in the attunement process.

Rapport – The relationship one has with a client.

Reframing – The act of seeing a past event in a different perspective, usually positive in nature so you can use it to change the present and future outcomes. This is a powerful Reiki technique for creative visualization and intention.

Reiji Ho – A literal translation is “The hands get called”. It suggests we give ourselves over to the higher good and allow Reiki to guide us during a treatment, setting all ego aside; placing the hands in the Gassho or prayer position.

Reiju – The traditional form of Reiki attunement by hand as brought forth and taught by Usui. It has since been suggested that since Usui was attuned by deep meditation, that hand-attunements are at a lower vibration and the best attunements are as Usui received his, by deep meditation. However, both methods work.

Reiki – Universal Life Force.

Reiki Alliance – An international community of Reiki Masters dedicated to following the original precepts of the Usui doctrine of Reiki teachings. 

Reiki Box – Write down the names and issues to receive Reiki and place them in a box or sacred bowl. With focused Reiki intention you can use this with distant Reiki sessions.

Reiki Branch – A school of Reiki whose origins began with traditional Usui methods but perhaps has altered some things. Despite any changes to the original ideology, the Reiki energy will still flow and heal. The energy is always present, regardless. Belief to a specific school or ideology, dogma, system or attunement is not required. It is about the intention. The Reiki will always flow.

Reiki Circle – A group of individuals sharing and experiencing Reiki, meditation, thoughts, ideas and Reiki sessions.

Reiki:  Definition – A Japanese technique for healing and stress reduction drawing upon the Universal Life Force Energy. Reiki is an energy that has been here since the formation of the Universe and is everywhere, in everything. It is administered from practitioner to recipient by the “laying on of hands”. Reiki may also be self-administered. Rei and ki are kanji ideograms which can have multiple meanings and interpretations. For our purpose’s rei means “universal or Higher Power” and ki means “life force energy.” Energy healing has been around since the dawn of time in various forms and modalities, often delivered by the hands and palms. Reiki as a formally defined system was “discovered” by Mikao Usui and introduced to Japan in 1922. Reiki requires no altered states or trances and can be learned and channeled by anyone. The only requirement is an attunement from a Reiki Master or via deep personal meditation. Once attuned, the ability to “Reiki” is never lost. It is empowered and enhanced, however, by usage, practice and intention.

Reiki, and How Does it Heal? – Reiki roughly translated means “spiritually-guided universal healing energy.” Reiki is channeled and heals us physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually by flowing through the affected parts of the body and the associated energy field and by charging them with positive energy. It raises the vibratory level of the energy field in and around the physical body and works on the negative thoughts, feelings, issues and memories. This causes the negative energies to break down and fall away. This frees the body’s energies so that healing can take place.  Reiki is ideal in emergency situations. It is all about energy, matter, vibration and intention. In cases of physical trauma or illness, Reiki provides additional energy which helps the organs, tissues and cells to go back to a state of homeostasis and balance.  

Reiki Ho – This term translates to “using Reiki to heal”. It comes from the term Ryoho which signifies healing.

Reiki Ideals – There are many variations of these. Just for today…I will not be angry, I will not worry, I will be grateful, I will do an honest day’s work, I will be kind to every living thing.

Reiki Mawashi – A Reiki circle of people holding hands, left palm up, right palm facing down. It allows the energy to circulate. For solo meditation purposes, you can do this with yourself, with your hands in your lap.

Reiki Hand Placements – A system of eighteen specific hand movements and usage designed to optimize the flow of Reiki energy during a Reiki treatment.

Reiki First Pattern – A traditional system of six hand placements originating on the chest to the hips for a Reiki treatment.

Reiki Second Pattern – A traditional system of four hand placements associated with the head for a Reiki treatment.

Reiki Third Pattern – A traditional system of eight hand placements originating on the back down to the feet for a Reiki treatment.

Reiki Additional/Optional Positions – Optional hand positions beyond the traditional eighteen may be created based on the feel and flow of the energy. There is no limit to these. Many are associated with the chakras and meridians.

Reiki Room – Your Reiki treatment room should be a place of serenity, peace, warm colors and soothing scents and sounds. Crystals and music played at 432 Hz add to the ambiance of a healing room. Soft lighting or candles can add to this, too. Make your Reiki room a sanctuary that draws people in and relaxes them from the moment they enter it.

Reiki Share – Usually open to Reiki practitioners wishing to exchange a Reiki session, as well as to people new to Reiki wishing to either observe or experience a Reiki session.

Reiki Story – Usui, Hayashi and Takata history…and now you. It is important to be able to explain the “Reiki story” to new students and clients. The more background you know, the better you understand Reiki and the clearer you can explain and share it. Practice this and add yourself into the narrative.

Reiki Symbols – A series of symbols that trigger an energetic response, action or feeling. There are four traditional symbols: Cho Ku Rei, Sei Hei Ki, Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen and Dai Ko Myo. The spelling of these vary. There are also numerous nontraditional symbols. The power of the symbols may be activated by drawing them on paper, in the air using your fingers or hand, on the roof of your mouth with your tongue, by voice, thought and visual imagery.

Resistance – The act of denying, seeing, acknowledging or acting on the benefit of moving forward with something most agree is beneficial.

River of Time – A type of Shamanic Journey used to travel back or forward in time to facilitate healing or gaining insights by viewing and observing past emotional events, experiences and possible or probable future occurrences.

Root Chakra – This is the first chakra, located between the genitals and the anus. Its associated color is red; the musical key is C, and the sound is OH. It is physically tied to the excretory system, the spine, adrenal glands and is said to be the base home of the Kundalini serpent. Its emotions include survival and grounding.

Rosary – The Rosary is a form of devotion in which 5 or 15 decades (10 beads each) of “Hail Mary’s” are repeated, each decade preceded by an “Our Father” and followed by a “Glory Be”;  a string of beads for keeping count in a Rosary or in the devotion of other religions; rose garden; representing love and devotion.

Ryoho – Translated to mean “a method”, as in a Reiki healing method.

Sacral Chakra – This is the second chakra, located just below the naval, or belly button. Its associated color is orange; musical key is D, and the sound is OOOOO (like the word You without pronouncing the Y). It connects to the reproductive system, the testes and ovaries, and issues of sexuality and creativity.

Sacred Space – A place inside the individual’s consciousness of complete safety and security; where only you may enter, often used as a launching spot for a Shamanic Journey.

Satori – A form of enlightenment, to be one with the universe and all that is. To have true insight and feel you know the true nature of all things. It suggests resonance with Reiki on a very deep level. It is attained by consistent Reiki sessions.

Scanning:  Byosen Reikan Ho – A system to identify hibiki, energy breaks in the aura indicative of an ailment, disease or issue. It is done by a series of hand motions 6-8” above the client following some specific meditations. Special attention is placed on sensations in your hands.

Scanning:  Finger / Hand Stirring – A system to identify hibiki, energy breaks in the aura indicative of an ailment, disease or issue. With this method, instead of holding your hand flat, it is held perpendicular to the client, with fingers spread apart and facing down on the body. Similar hibiki sensations will be felt when you find an abnormality.

Scrying – The ancient practice of accessing the unconscious mind by revealing the unseen through our natural in-born second sight, for self-understanding and insights; hydromancy, crystal gazing, oculomancy; a method of divination, the art of revelation.

Scrying Crystals – Examining the images in a crystal in the belief that is will reveal the secrets of the past or present.

Second Degree Reiki – This is the next level of Reiki once you have completed Reiki One. You get introduced to the distant healing symbol and receive another attunement increasing your energy channeling ability. Most topics from Reiki One are expanded upon as well.

Seiheki Chiryo Ho – Similar to Nentatsu in helping one to change habits.

Sei Hei Kei – Harmony/Mental/Emotional symbol- This helps to open up the emotional channel connecting your higher self to another’s higher self, particularly during a Reiki treatment.

Seishin Toitsu – The concept of attaining a unified mind, the literal translation is “concentration”.  This is a meditation technique to help focus on bringing in the most amount of Reiki energy possible. Place your hands on your lap or thighs, palm up, and breath in slowly and deeply through your nose and exhale out your mouth. Imagine the energy coming in through your crown chakra from above, and below through the Earth into your feet. It collects in your hara, or Tanden, or belly, and then travels up through your heart and shoulders to your hands. Finish the meditation in the Gassho position. Your hands might be hot and pulsing at this point. This feels empowering.

Seiyo (Western Reiki) – Japanese Reiki was virtually lost in Japan as a formal practice after WW II. It was “reborn” in the Western countries, particularly the United States and made its way back to Japan, championed by Hawaya Takata, among others. This altered version is referred to as Seiyo Reiki. Reiki has been evolving since its origin and all forms of Reiki are equally valid, powerful and productive. 

Self-Reiki – Performing a series of hand placements on yourself for the purpose of giving yourself a Reiki treatment.

Self-Treatments – A personalized system designed to administer Reiki to yourself on a daily basis. It includes a series of hand placements which can be done in any order or sequence. It can include aura cleansing, chakra alignment and grounding, essentially everything you would do for a client.

Se Tuwanna He – Connect us to the ancestors, bringing forgiveness, compassion and helps us to let go of that which no longer serves us.

Shaman – An individual who acts as a guide or an intermediary between the natural and supernatural worlds; one who knows.

Shamanism – The practice of interacting with an ancestral spirit in an alternate dimension or world with the help of or as a Shaman through an altered state of consciousness in order to help direct the spiritual energies into this world for the purpose of gathering information or healing; an ancient healing tradition and a way of life; universal spiritual wisdom from indigenous tribes throughout the world, rooted in nature.

Shamanic Journey – Traveling within your own consciousness for the purpose of therapy, insights and consultation, often facilitated by a Shamanic practitioner with a specific purpose and intention in mind.

Shamanic Reiki- The integration of traditional Reiki with Shamanism and diverse indigenous Shamanic practices and approaches to enhance healing outcomes, and gain insights and knowledge.

Shapeshifting – Merging with nature, animal or spirit guide for the purpose of gaining awareness, insights, understanding and healing.

Shiatsu– A holistic therapy form of acupressure originating in Japan that focuses on the various points along the twelve major meridians in the human body. It incorporates a combination of massage, pressure points and stretching. Reiki and Shiatsu complement each other.

Shihan – An instructor who uses exact methods of technique, form and methodology.

Shinpiden – Japanese for Reiki Three, sometimes called Advanced Reiki, or Master Level One. It is also used to signify Master Level Two, depending on the school and Master Teacher’s preference.

Shoden – Japanese for Reiki One.

Shuchu Reiki – This a Reiki session or treatment performed by multiple practitioners on one individual.

Siberian Mark Exercise – A Shamanic practice involving recognizing and honoring a sacred place in nature that resonates with you.

Singing Bowls – A uniquely and purposely shaped inverted standing bell or bowl used for the express purpose of creating resonant musical notes, sounds and tones. The sounds are produced by rubbing the rim or gently striking the bell or bowl.

Smudging – The practice of or a method for purification in preparation of a sacred ceremony or spiritual event. This may be done with certain herbs, crystals or tuning forks.

Solar Plexus Chakra – This is the third chakra, located just below the breast bone. Its associated color is yellow; the musical key is E, and the sound is AYE. It is tied into the digestive system, the pancreas and the issues of personal power.

Soul – A unique yet distinct entity which is separate from the body that encompasses feelings, life, thoughts, actions and emotions. It is the spiritual part of humans. Each lifeform has a soul.

Soul Group – A group or cluster of souls currently in a state of incarnation. Such groups often create pacts, agreements or contracts to support and help each other in their current life. We often sense we recognize our soul group members despite not have met them previously when we first meet them each lifetime.

Soul Link – The strand of energy connecting members of a soul group, often felt as intuitive thoughts from one to another.

Sound – Chanting, toning and music can all be used to enhance a Reiki treatment. You can use the name of a specific symbol, hum a tone or chant a mantra. You can use the sound tones associated with the chakras and adjust your pitch to the specific musical keys as well.

Sound Healing – Using attributes, tones, frequencies, vibrations and modulations of sound to promote wellness, healing and the expansion of consciousness.

Spirit – The main part or principal of the conscious life, animating the body and connecting the mind to the soul.

Spirit Guides – Spiritual helpers, angels, and discarnate souls who are in-between lives who provide assistance to beings that are currently incarnate. This help is often received by us as intuitive thoughts and impulses.

Spiritualism – A religious movement and belief system that suggests the spirits or souls of the dead exist and willingly communicate with the living in order to help, coach, guide and offer insights; the perspective that spirit is a relevant aspect and element of reality.

Spirituality – A deep sense of knowing there is something more than the ego and the need to find, sense and feel it. It may be associated with religion or not. It can be felt alone, in a group, a church or a forest. We crave and yearn for it from time to time, especially in the emotional extremes of our lives. It is a lifelong process of personal reformation with the aim of finding our true selves and the meaning of things unexplainable. Reiki helps us to connect to our spirituality.

Spiritual Surgery – In Shamanism, the practice of removing unwanted energetic blocks of intrusions.

Stages of Loss – Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Grief, Resolution.

Star Children – Highly evolved beings believed to be from other planetary star systems who have chose to incarnate on different planets to help guide the inhabitants in their spiritual development.

Star Gate – Access points for interstellar travel.

Subtle Bodies – The outside layers of the aura, or bio-magnetic sheath of field that surrounds the human body. These relate to the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of each being.

Subtle Energy – These are the energy systems that are within and surrounding the physical body, considered to be in layers. These are the aura, the chakra and the meridians. It is thought that others exist as well on a dimension we cannot yet see or feel.

Super Ego – Our moral guide or compass, mediating between the Id and the Ego, thought to contain our conscience.

Sympathetic Nervous System – The part of the nervous system used to trigger the flight or fight syndromes.

Takata, Hawayo – 1900-1980. She is a Japanese-American who is credited with bringing the spiritual healing practices of Reiki to the United States, as well as reintroducing them to Japan to some degree. She was the first significant student of Chujiro Hayashi.

Tanden Chiryo Ho – The Tanden is a chakra just below the navel and accumulates a lot of energy. In Dento Reiki, this is a method to detoxify negative energy.

Teate Ryoho – A Japanese translation says “Te” means palm, and “ate ru” means to “put hands on”. So, this suggests it means to “to put hands on”, or to heal using the hands.

Thanatos – The death instinct.

Theory X – The idea that people work for extrinsic reasons such as money or power.

Theory Y – The idea that people work for and are motivated also by personal satisfaction, self-esteem, helping others and a sense of love, giving and community.

Third Degree Reiki – Often referred to as Advanced Reiki Training, or ART, this course introduces you to the Master symbol, Dai Ko Myo, and teaches some attunements, depending on the teacher. Most topics from the previous courses are taken to a deeper level as well.

Third Eye Chakra– See Brow chakra.

Thought Forms – The energy aspect of a being that can be used for healing purposes in a Reiki session. These exist on the etheric or spiritual plane and a called in via positive and negative thoughts.

Three Pillars of Reiki:  

1. Gassho– holding the hands together in front of the chest, or heart chakra, much the same as in prayer. Gassho is often used as a means to focus one’s attention to Reiki energy flowing through the palms.
2. Reiji Ho– guided by the third eye once in the Gassho position, raising the hands together and touching the area of the third eye, or Brow chakra helps to focus one’s attention and facilitate healing intention, often referred to as “helping to guide the hands”. Let your intuition guide you.
3. Chiryo Intuition. The word translates as “treatment”. In this case, allowing your intuition to guide the Reiki treatment rather than a set series of prescribed hand placements in the three traditional patterns.

Throat Chakra – This is the fifth chakra, located in the heart of the throat. Its associated color is blue, the musical key is G, and the sound is EEEE. It is tied into the lungs, thyroid and para thyroid, and vocal communications.

Tibetan Dai Ko Myo – Nontraditional version of the traditional Usui Master Symbol.

Tibetan Fire Serpent – This is a nontraditional attunement and healing symbol.

Toning – Repetitive singing of a sound to increase its vibration during a Reiki healing.

Trance – An altered state from a pre-calibrated baseline.

Treatments – Reiki helps with virtually every physical, emotional, mental and spiritual issue or ailment.  Reiki works in balance with every other healing energy and modality, including yoga, massage and meditation.  Reiki has been documented to help with cancer, depression, heart disease, infertility, neurodegenerative disorders, Crohns Disease, auto immune disorders, chronic pain and anxiety, among others. 

Tumbled Crystals – A term to describe rounded, polished gem stones or crystals. These are usually small and often used in jewelry making.

Tuning Forks – An acoustic resonator consisting of two prongs, or tines in the form of an elongated U shape. When activated by striking it, it resonates or produces several tones, a fundamental and a harmonic, at a specific pitch, through vibrations.

Twelve Strand DNA – Our attraction towards crystals suggests we originated with twelve strands of DNA, with the extra strands vibrationally aligned to crystals, hence our current feelings of connectivity to the.

Type A Personality – These people often feel a sense of urgency, anxiety or agitation, especially about time and are likely to be impatient and controlling and have difficulty relaxing.

Type B Personality – These people are easy going, relaxed, less prone to anxiety, fits of anger or feeling agitated, have lower stress levels and are less concerned about time.

Unconscious – There are thought to be different levels or layers of human consciousness; the top is the fully aware conscious; next the preconscious; the lowest is the unconscious, where undesirable ideas, notions, wishes, desires, memories, emotions and thoughts reside.

Usui, Mikao – 1865-1926. The founder of the Japanese spiritual practice for energy healing known today as Reiki.

Usui Reiki Ryoho – The original Usui system of Reiki as a pathway to healing as perfected by Usui.

Usui Shiki Ryoho – The Usui system of natural healing, per the definition brought forth by the traditional Reiki Alliance through Phyliss Lei Furomoto. It incorporates four basic aspects:

1. Healing Practice
2. Personal Development
3. Spiritual Development
4. Mystic Order

Vibration – In the worlds of physics, a form of oscillating, movement, reciprocating or systematic or periodic motion of a rigid or elastic body or material from a static position of a state of equilibrium. In the world of Reiki, this vibrational feeling or change allows for a sensory experience helping us to recognize and feel changes in the energy around us. It is particularly helpful as we attempt to feel the energy during a Reiki treatment. When we are at a personal high vibration, we can feel the energy all around us, especially when we are laying our hands with intention on a Reiki client. The higher our vibration, the easier it is to heal ourselves and others. A high vibration attracts positive energy and situations, people and experiences. A high vibration attunes us to the true nature of our reality helping us to transform thought into form more easily because it helps us to sense and feel our intuitive thoughts.

Vibration and Frequency:  Vibration – The measurable association of oscillation and movement around an equilibrium point coupled with the number of occurrences of a repeating event per unit of time, heard as sound and felt by pressure waves; Frequency as Hz- The number of instances of a repeating event per units of time equal to one occurrence of a repeating event per second.

Vision Quest – A ceremony which includes individual isolation for the purposes of attuning yourself to your higher self, often in a nature-like setting, which may last for several days and sometimes includes fasting and no talking to anyone. Considered Native American in origin, these are used in various formats around the world

Visual – Refers to our sense of sight for processing information. “I see it, that looks fine.”

Vortex – A spinning, whirling mass of energy that has the power to move the universal life force energy downward or upwards, often associated to a location on the earth or place on the body of a person or animal.

Yin and Yang – Chinese Theory of energy. Yin represents the shady, quiet or denser, more material and darker side of energy. Yang relates to the sunny side, active or brighter, immaterial and lighter aspects.

Yang Organs – Small and Large Intestines, Stomach, Gall Bladder, and Triple Warmer.

Yin Organs – Heart, Lungs, Spleen, Kidney, Liver and Pericardium.

Yoga – A spiritual discipline to allow for self-realization through neutralization of the ego based on Hindu theistic philosophy. Yoga promotes the union of the spirit to the self. Yoga is a system of physical postures, breathing and meditation techniques to promote physical and mental well-being.

Western Reiki – The various offshoots and branches of Reiki derived from Hawayo Takata’s teachings.

Wicca – A predominantly Western, new religious movement of Neo-Paganism formed in the 1950s centered on aspects of witchcraft and nature worship, using cosmic and psychic energies, magic, spells and rituals with focused intention to bring about positive desired changes.

Zonar – A nontraditional energy healing symbol.