Fast facts
Foundation of traditional Usui practice
Yes. From qualified Reiki master.
Ideal. Even 10 minutes helps.
One-time class fee. Then free.
Stress reduction, better sleep, self-awareness
Your Own Hands
How to Learn and Practice Self-Reiki
Self-Reiki is exactly what it sounds like: using Reiki on yourself. You place your hands on your own body, and energy flows. The practitioner and the receiver are the same person.
In traditional Usui Reiki, self-treatment is the first and most important practice. Students are expected to practice self-Reiki daily for months before treating others. This builds the energy channel, heals the practitioner, and develops sensitivity.
Learning self-Reiki requires an attunement from a qualified Reiki master. Attunements are typically offered in Level 1 (Shoden) classes. Classes range from one day to a weekend and cost $150-$300. After attunement, you have Reiki for life. You can practice anywhere, anytime, for free.
Steps to Learn Self-Reiki
How to get started.
- Find a qualified Reiki master offering Level 1 (Shoden) training.
- Attend the class. Receive your attunement.
- Learn the hand positions for self-treatment.
- Practice daily. Even 10-15 minutes is beneficial.
- Notice effects: relaxation, emotional release, better sleep.
- Gradually increase session length as you build the habit.
Self-Reiki Hand Positions
Standard hand positions for self-treatment in Usui Reiki.
Head and Eyes
Hands on crown, covering eyes. Relaxes mind and eyes.
Temples and Ears
Hands on sides of head. Releases jaw and ear tension.
Throat
One hand on throat. Supports communication and thyroid.
Chest
Hands on upper chest. Heart and lungs. Emotional release.
Stomach
Hands on abdomen. Digestion and solar plexus.
Pelvis
Hands on lower belly. Reproductive organs and hips.
Legs
Hands on thighs, knees, ankles, feet. Grounding.
Practical Instructions
How to Practice Self-Reiki Step by Step
Find a quiet place where you will not be interrupted. Sit or lie down, whichever is comfortable. Close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths to settle.
Place your hands on your body in the standard hand positions. Start with the head: hands on your crown, covering your eyes. Stay in each position for 2-5 minutes, or until you feel the energy flow change or stop.
Move slowly through the body: head, throat, chest, stomach, pelvis, legs, feet. You can spend more time on areas that need extra attention. End with your hands on your feet or resting at your sides.
After the session, rest for a few minutes. Drink water. Notice how you feel. Over time, you will develop your own rhythm and intuition about what your body needs.
Why Bother?
The Real Benefits of Daily Self-Reiki
The most obvious benefit is stress reduction. Daily self-Reiki shifts your nervous system from sympathetic (stress) to parasympathetic (rest). Over time, this becomes your new baseline.
Other benefits include: better sleep, reduced anxiety, improved mood, less pain, greater self-awareness, emotional release, and a sense of connection to yourself.
Many practitioners report that self-Reiki is the most valuable part of their training. Not because they can help others, but because it helps them. A healed healer is more effective. Self-Reiki is how you become that.
What People Get Wrong About Self-Reiki
Myth: Self-Reiki is less effective than receiving from someone else.
Reality: Self-Reiki is the foundation of traditional practice. It is equally effective, just different.
Myth: You need to be a master to practice self-Reiki.
Reality: Self-Reiki is taught at Level 1. Anyone can learn it.
Myth: You cannot reach all areas of your body.
Reality: Hand positions are designed for self-treatment. You can reach all areas or use hovering for difficult spots.
Myth: Self-Reiki is selfish.
Reality: You cannot pour from an empty cup. Self-Reiki fills your cup so you can help others.
Key takeaways
- Yes, anyone can learn to practice Reiki on themselves.
- Self-Reiki is the foundation of traditional Usui Reiki practice.
- You need a Level 1 attunement from a qualified Reiki master.
- Practice daily, even for 10-15 minutes.
- Self-Reiki is free after the initial class.
- Benefits include stress reduction, better sleep, and self-awareness.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be attuned to practice self-Reiki?
Yes. The attunement opens your energy channels. Without it, you are practicing meditation or self-touch, not Reiki. Both are valuable, but they are different.
How long does a self-Reiki session take?
A full session with all hand positions takes 30-60 minutes. A short session of 10-15 minutes is also beneficial. Consistency matters more than duration.
How often should I practice self-Reiki?
Daily is ideal. Even on busy days, 5-10 minutes helps maintain the energy flow.
Can I practice self-Reiki in bed?
Yes. Many people practice self-Reiki as they fall asleep or when they wake up.
Is self-Reiki safe during pregnancy?
Yes, with minor precautions. Some practitioners recommend avoiding the belly area in the first trimester. Otherwise, self-Reiki is safe and can be very supportive during pregnancy.
Sources
- Bronwen and Frans Stiene, The Reiki Sourcebook, 2003.
- Traditional Usui Reiki Level 1 teaching materials.
- Practitioner experience and client reports.
