Reiki works by removing blockages within the human energy system. When these blockages are cleared, the individual naturally manifests a purer state of mind and higher state of health. In this state, people more naturally connect to the Divine. It is this fact that makes Reiki a part of Hermetic Universalism. Practitioners of Reiki can hold any belief system. They are called "Reiki Practitioners" or, for those that have attuned to Reiki III, "Reiki Masters."
In my time working as a Reiki Practitioner, I’ve seen several systems, techniques and attunement methods. I have also seen and heard about many different teaching methods, ranging to some of the best to some of the worst I have ever seen.
The point of any course is practical knowledge. If a course does not give you things that you can use personally and understand, it is not worth your time or money. This is true of any course in anything, whether metaphysical or otherwise. While there are many systems of Reiki, a good course should at least give a few practical techniques and some knowledge about the symbols used and Reiki, in general.
What follows is information from Traditional (or Usui, named for the founder) Reiki, given as I practice and teach it. Other teachers may have different methods. Just keep the above in mind when choosing a teacher.
I offer the information here, for those interested. My intention is to publish a formal course in the future. However, I feel basic information on all systems should be free…or at least more reasonably priced than is currently available to many members of the general public. There are also many people who would like to learn Reiki, but cannot afford to pay for classes. This section of the website contains enough information to enable anyone to learn Reiki for free.
I welcome any feedback, whether positive or negative, as long as it is given in a respectful manner. Also, I always welcome and encourage new ideas. No one has all the answers or can claim complete knowledge of any system. A teacher should understand that, regardless of their level of practice, he or she is always a student, first and foremost. The learning never stops.
To that end, I wish you all Love and Light.
Blessings,
Frater V.I.T.R.I.O.L.