Frequently Asked Questions
Some common questions answered by Alison of Animal Reiki Scotland
How can Reiki help animals ?
Reasons your pet would have a Reiki session : If suffering from anxiety, is under stress, moving home, new home or being rehomed, new family or pack member, going into boarding kennels, kennel stress, during illness/injury, pre or post surgery, behavioral issues, general wellbeing and maintenance of health, as a support to end of life care.
Reiki Can:
• Maintain health and well-being on the physical, mental and emotional levels.
• Induce deep relaxation and stress-relief.
• Accelerate healing in sick or injured animals, or animals recovering from surgery.
• Help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Help reduce behaviour problems and aggression.
• Help abused animals heal from past mental/physical trauma.
• Complement conventional and holistic therapies.
• Provides balance and focus for working, agility, competitive show animals or during sporting events.
• Be an effective, gentle non-invasive yet powerful approach to healing on many levels.
• Provide overall healing to boost the immune system
• Lessen the side effects of other medical treatments.
• Support the dying process throughout hospice care
Reiki Can:
• Maintain health and well-being on the physical, mental and emotional levels.
• Induce deep relaxation and stress-relief.
• Accelerate healing in sick or injured animals, or animals recovering from surgery.
• Help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Help reduce behaviour problems and aggression.
• Help abused animals heal from past mental/physical trauma.
• Complement conventional and holistic therapies.
• Provides balance and focus for working, agility, competitive show animals or during sporting events.
• Be an effective, gentle non-invasive yet powerful approach to healing on many levels.
• Provide overall healing to boost the immune system
• Lessen the side effects of other medical treatments.
• Support the dying process throughout hospice care
WHAT IS REIKI AND HOW DOES IT WORK ?
Reiki is a Japanese word, pronounced ray-key, The Japanese translation is Rei meaning Spirit Ki meaning Energy.
In the West spirit may have a slightly different associations so you will also see it commonly translated as ''universal life force',
Rei - Universal Ki - Life force.
It is a recognised complementary therapy for stress reduction and relaxation that promotes emotional and physical healing. The "life force energy" of anything living is balanced in this non invasive therapy, if one's "life force energy" is low, then we are more likely to be ill or have emotional imbalances, if it is high, we experience health and vitality.
Reiki is offered in spas, wellbeing centres, hospitals and hospices as well as through individual practitioners and centres, it can be practiced anywhere, it is popular with many people to use at home solely for their own selfcare and wellbeing especially if they suffer from stress related conditions. It involves mindfulness and meditation techniques and is easy to learn.
It was created by Mikao Usui in early 20th century Japan, originally emphasising spiritual development and meditative practice, it is not affiliated to any religion. It is recognised more today as a form of energy healing that is useful for a wide range of conditions working on a physical, emotional and spiritual level.
Reiki is a system consisting of the following elements:
1) Developing focus through working with the precepts and various exercises.
2) Practicing techniques and meditations - both traditional practices and specific animal related.
3) Working with the mantras and symbols - three in level II and one in Level III.
4) Receiving the attunements/reiju - these are received during a Reiki course and at practice groups (reiki shares). at Shinpiden/Master level III you will be taught to attune others.
5) Healing for others - traditionally known as hands on healing although in Animal Reiki we do not start with hands on. Used firstly for self healing and then for others.
As an energy practice, it flows and works through the subtle anatomy of the body, including the chakra system of Indian tradition and the Meridian system of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) although these are not strictly part of the system of Reiki. When we talk about energy we are referring to the vital life force energy of the universe that flows through all living things, in the TCM tradition it is called Qi, you will also see different cultures and systems of indigenous medicine refer to it as Chi, Ki, Prana and Bioelectricity. This vital energy runs through channels in the body called meridians ( nadis in ayurvedic medicine) that act as 'energy highways' or you could think of them as rivers of energy. These channels cannot be seen in a physical dissection ( although meridian, and acupoints can be detected by measuring electrical resistance). Sometimes, dues to stress, shock, injury, illness, major life events etc 'energy' becomes depleted or blocked in the body - Reiki dissolves these blockages and restores the smooth flow of energy needed to maintain physical health and emotional wellbeing.
It is not necessary to know anything about the subtle anatomy for Reiki to work. Reiki will flow where it is needed without direction.
Mentally and emotionally Reiki restores the person or animal to their 'true self', shedding all of the armour that has been created by day to day interactions with other people and situations that often leaving us feeling out of balance and far from our best self, it allows us to feel the peace and joyful connection to life that we all have the right to.
Reiki can work in a non physical way by to interacing with The Energy field that surrounds the body, radiating from the skin, is called the Aura.
In healing theory the physical and energy bodies are interconnected. A disturbance in the subtle energy body or Aura can manifest as a physical problem and likewise a physical problem or injury can result in an emotional or energetic issue.
Plants, herbs and light also interact with our energy field or Aura. You may like to find out more about how they can help here...
The Aura is the electromagnetic energy field which surrounds every living thing from top to toe like a protective cocoon, it reflects the physical, emotional and spiritual health of the body and mind, but also acts as a subtle body that allows the free flow of energy in and out of the physical body. So a healthy intact and functioning Aura can help to boost vital energies needed by the individual, an Aura that is not intact or depleted can leave you feeling below par, that feeling you get of things not being quite right but can't put your finger on it. In general, the healthier you are the stronger your Aura is.
Some people claim to be able to see the Aura/energy field but it is certainly possible for most people to feel it. Certain therapies like Reiki can help you sense this energy field but it is a natural sense that we don't fully appreciate, how often do you realise you are picking up on how someone is really feeling despite what they say? or pick up on the atmosphere when entering a space where people have had a disagreement ? Felt a presence or thought of someone before they have appeared or called? If any of these apply to you you may have tuned in to the energy field of people or animals familiar to you or to the vibration of those around you.
The most accepted proof that Auras and Bioelectricity exist is a method of photographing the aura of plants animals and humans using electricity, developed in the thirties by the Russian researcher Semyan Kirlian. The images show a bright outline of light, which was stronger and more complete in healthy subjects and weaker, with lots of gaps, in those with disease.
In the West spirit may have a slightly different associations so you will also see it commonly translated as ''universal life force',
Rei - Universal Ki - Life force.
It is a recognised complementary therapy for stress reduction and relaxation that promotes emotional and physical healing. The "life force energy" of anything living is balanced in this non invasive therapy, if one's "life force energy" is low, then we are more likely to be ill or have emotional imbalances, if it is high, we experience health and vitality.
Reiki is offered in spas, wellbeing centres, hospitals and hospices as well as through individual practitioners and centres, it can be practiced anywhere, it is popular with many people to use at home solely for their own selfcare and wellbeing especially if they suffer from stress related conditions. It involves mindfulness and meditation techniques and is easy to learn.
It was created by Mikao Usui in early 20th century Japan, originally emphasising spiritual development and meditative practice, it is not affiliated to any religion. It is recognised more today as a form of energy healing that is useful for a wide range of conditions working on a physical, emotional and spiritual level.
Reiki is a system consisting of the following elements:
1) Developing focus through working with the precepts and various exercises.
2) Practicing techniques and meditations - both traditional practices and specific animal related.
3) Working with the mantras and symbols - three in level II and one in Level III.
4) Receiving the attunements/reiju - these are received during a Reiki course and at practice groups (reiki shares). at Shinpiden/Master level III you will be taught to attune others.
5) Healing for others - traditionally known as hands on healing although in Animal Reiki we do not start with hands on. Used firstly for self healing and then for others.
As an energy practice, it flows and works through the subtle anatomy of the body, including the chakra system of Indian tradition and the Meridian system of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) although these are not strictly part of the system of Reiki. When we talk about energy we are referring to the vital life force energy of the universe that flows through all living things, in the TCM tradition it is called Qi, you will also see different cultures and systems of indigenous medicine refer to it as Chi, Ki, Prana and Bioelectricity. This vital energy runs through channels in the body called meridians ( nadis in ayurvedic medicine) that act as 'energy highways' or you could think of them as rivers of energy. These channels cannot be seen in a physical dissection ( although meridian, and acupoints can be detected by measuring electrical resistance). Sometimes, dues to stress, shock, injury, illness, major life events etc 'energy' becomes depleted or blocked in the body - Reiki dissolves these blockages and restores the smooth flow of energy needed to maintain physical health and emotional wellbeing.
It is not necessary to know anything about the subtle anatomy for Reiki to work. Reiki will flow where it is needed without direction.
Mentally and emotionally Reiki restores the person or animal to their 'true self', shedding all of the armour that has been created by day to day interactions with other people and situations that often leaving us feeling out of balance and far from our best self, it allows us to feel the peace and joyful connection to life that we all have the right to.
Reiki can work in a non physical way by to interacing with The Energy field that surrounds the body, radiating from the skin, is called the Aura.
In healing theory the physical and energy bodies are interconnected. A disturbance in the subtle energy body or Aura can manifest as a physical problem and likewise a physical problem or injury can result in an emotional or energetic issue.
Plants, herbs and light also interact with our energy field or Aura. You may like to find out more about how they can help here...
The Aura is the electromagnetic energy field which surrounds every living thing from top to toe like a protective cocoon, it reflects the physical, emotional and spiritual health of the body and mind, but also acts as a subtle body that allows the free flow of energy in and out of the physical body. So a healthy intact and functioning Aura can help to boost vital energies needed by the individual, an Aura that is not intact or depleted can leave you feeling below par, that feeling you get of things not being quite right but can't put your finger on it. In general, the healthier you are the stronger your Aura is.
Some people claim to be able to see the Aura/energy field but it is certainly possible for most people to feel it. Certain therapies like Reiki can help you sense this energy field but it is a natural sense that we don't fully appreciate, how often do you realise you are picking up on how someone is really feeling despite what they say? or pick up on the atmosphere when entering a space where people have had a disagreement ? Felt a presence or thought of someone before they have appeared or called? If any of these apply to you you may have tuned in to the energy field of people or animals familiar to you or to the vibration of those around you.
The most accepted proof that Auras and Bioelectricity exist is a method of photographing the aura of plants animals and humans using electricity, developed in the thirties by the Russian researcher Semyan Kirlian. The images show a bright outline of light, which was stronger and more complete in healthy subjects and weaker, with lots of gaps, in those with disease.
how will reiki affect my pet ?
The reason for giving your pet a Reiki session is of course to see a beneficial effect on their health well being or behaviour. Reiki will always work at some level however effects can be subtle and not always obvious or immediate OR they may be instant that is why it can be difficult to describe a typical session, each session is different as is each animal's reaction. There are no guarantees to the outcome of a treatment but Reiki is only ever positive.
You will receive an aftercare guide that will detail possible responses and results.
Reiki will work where it is needed at the core of an issue so the results may differ from animal to animal and will depend on your pets individual constitution. At the consultation your practitioner will discuss your expectations for your pet as well as any existing issues that we need to be aware of, although Reiki is suitable in most scenarios as it is non invasive.
It is worth bearing in mind that often what we think of as a problem may just an animal expressing a natural behaviour, reaction to it's environment or trying to communicate with us, sometimes it is our own expectation we have to examine. Reiki will help to achieve a harmonious balance and deeper bond between animals and their people.
After a Reiki session your animal may want to sleep or the opposite they can be full of energy and very active. It is a good idea, especially for the first few sessions, that you schedule time to be with your animal to observe their post treatment response. Make sure they have plenty of fresh water to drink and you may find they prefer fresh food and treats as opposed to processed foods, Reiki works at a cellular level and will stimulate the individual to search for healthy balanced nutrients, in fact healthy balance in all areas of their life. more on fresh food...
You will receive an aftercare guide that will detail possible responses and results.
Reiki will work where it is needed at the core of an issue so the results may differ from animal to animal and will depend on your pets individual constitution. At the consultation your practitioner will discuss your expectations for your pet as well as any existing issues that we need to be aware of, although Reiki is suitable in most scenarios as it is non invasive.
It is worth bearing in mind that often what we think of as a problem may just an animal expressing a natural behaviour, reaction to it's environment or trying to communicate with us, sometimes it is our own expectation we have to examine. Reiki will help to achieve a harmonious balance and deeper bond between animals and their people.
After a Reiki session your animal may want to sleep or the opposite they can be full of energy and very active. It is a good idea, especially for the first few sessions, that you schedule time to be with your animal to observe their post treatment response. Make sure they have plenty of fresh water to drink and you may find they prefer fresh food and treats as opposed to processed foods, Reiki works at a cellular level and will stimulate the individual to search for healthy balanced nutrients, in fact healthy balance in all areas of their life. more on fresh food...
is it safe ?
100% safe.
True Reiki can be only positive. The founder of Reiki, Mikao Usui intended Reiki to be used for the highest good, that intention alone almost 'pre programmes' Reiki to be a force for wellbeing.
It is safe for both giver and receiver. Reiki can be given without touching and even used remotely. When offered to an animal or human it is with the intention that it is the individuals' choice to accept or reject the energy offered and only use what is needed at that moment in time. Any excess or unused energy is returned to the universe.
In situations where an animal is stressed or traumatised by human contact or in a state which would be dangerous for people to approach, Reiki is one of the few options that would be deemed safe to offer.
True Reiki can be only positive. The founder of Reiki, Mikao Usui intended Reiki to be used for the highest good, that intention alone almost 'pre programmes' Reiki to be a force for wellbeing.
It is safe for both giver and receiver. Reiki can be given without touching and even used remotely. When offered to an animal or human it is with the intention that it is the individuals' choice to accept or reject the energy offered and only use what is needed at that moment in time. Any excess or unused energy is returned to the universe.
In situations where an animal is stressed or traumatised by human contact or in a state which would be dangerous for people to approach, Reiki is one of the few options that would be deemed safe to offer.
I HAVE SEEN THE TERM HEALING USED WITH REIKI DOES THAT MEAN WILL IT can CURE MY PET's illness ?
Reiki may aid physical healing and support recovery from illness or injury, stress and trauma. Clients often come to Reiki as a last resort in their search for a healing therapy and are often pleasantly surprised by the results, but as with all healthcare systems there is no guarantee.
To some people the term healing means nothing less than complete physical cure and return to wellness, however Reiki can help us accept the natural cycles of life and is a wonderful support when the physical body cannot recover and it is time to move on, Reiki can give reassurance, bring peace and love to all during the transition to spirit.
To some people the term healing means nothing less than complete physical cure and return to wellness, however Reiki can help us accept the natural cycles of life and is a wonderful support when the physical body cannot recover and it is time to move on, Reiki can give reassurance, bring peace and love to all during the transition to spirit.
WHAT DOES A REIKI SESSION INVOLVE ?
For People
The client lies fully clothed on a therapy table or sits in a chair while the practitioner either places their hands directly on the body or a few inches above. The client usually will feel warmth or some tingling. There is no manipulation or pressure applied so it is unlike a massage technique. A Reiki practitioner does not diagnose problems or offer a cure.
A session lasts either 30 minutes or an hour.
For Animals
In following Kathleen Prasad’s Let Animals Lead® method, the practitioner sits quietly with the animal creating the healing space through meditation and breathing techniques. The session may be entirely hands-off or the animal can touch the practitioner or initiate contact.
The animal is free to receive in whichever way is most comfortable, sometimes coming in and out of the healing space several times.
A session lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Remote Sessions are available for both people and animals. more information >>>
The client lies fully clothed on a therapy table or sits in a chair while the practitioner either places their hands directly on the body or a few inches above. The client usually will feel warmth or some tingling. There is no manipulation or pressure applied so it is unlike a massage technique. A Reiki practitioner does not diagnose problems or offer a cure.
A session lasts either 30 minutes or an hour.
For Animals
In following Kathleen Prasad’s Let Animals Lead® method, the practitioner sits quietly with the animal creating the healing space through meditation and breathing techniques. The session may be entirely hands-off or the animal can touch the practitioner or initiate contact.
The animal is free to receive in whichever way is most comfortable, sometimes coming in and out of the healing space several times.
A session lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Remote Sessions are available for both people and animals. more information >>>
WILL MY VET OBJECT TO MY ANIMAL HAVING REIKI ?
Most vets will not object to your pet having Reiki and some are happy to recommend clients to try it for highly stressed or depressed animals and to support owners through difficult times and after the passing of a loved one.
The Let Animals Lead Method of Animal Reiki is becoming widely recognised as a completely non invasive, respectful approach to Reiki and many vets are already trained in the method. see Vets on Animal Reiki by Kathleen Prasad
It is against the law for anyone other than a Veterinary surgeon to give physical treatment or diagnosis of an animals condition. Other qualified practitioners may be able to give treatment within their area of expertise under veterinary supervision or with written consent.
The Let Animals Lead Method of Animal Reiki is becoming widely recognised as a completely non invasive, respectful approach to Reiki and many vets are already trained in the method. see Vets on Animal Reiki by Kathleen Prasad
It is against the law for anyone other than a Veterinary surgeon to give physical treatment or diagnosis of an animals condition. Other qualified practitioners may be able to give treatment within their area of expertise under veterinary supervision or with written consent.
WHAT KIND OF ANIMALS CAN YOU USE REIKI WITH ?
Animal Reiki is suitable for all living beings. Personally we have worked with insects, fish, reptiles, small furries, farm animals, cats, dogs, horses, donkeys, bears, elephants with positive results.
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REIKI AS A SUPPORT TO END OF LIFE CARE, HOW CAN IT HELP ?
Reiki teaches that we are all one and from that respect the essence of a living being changes from one form to another. Reiki can help us accept the natural cycles of life and is a wonderful support when the physical body can not recover and it is time to move on, Reiki can give reassurance, bring peace and love to all during the transition to spirit.
It has been used to support many people through the trauma of losing a loved one.
It has been used to support many people through the trauma of losing a loved one.
HOW CAN I FIND A PRACTITIONER ?
Practitioners trained by Animal Reiki Scotland are listed in our Directory.
CAN ANYONE LEARN TO USE REIKI ?
Yes ! No special skills needed.
Having a Reiki treatment is beneficial for both people and animals during times of stress or as you would have a massage or spa treatment - just to make you feel good ! ( actually it is a great option for people who don't like massage or spas ).
Learn Reiki and use it everyday, regular practice will instill wellbeing in the lives of people and animals alike. The more you practice and receive Reiki, the more you will feel the flow.
If you want to offer Reiki as a career and charge people for treatments then you will have to qualify in levels 1 & 2 to gain insurance. Level 2 being the practitioner qualification. No previous knowledge of healing or qualifications are needed, the beauty of Reiki is that you don't even need to know where the imbalance or problem is, Reiki will heal the source (responsible practitioners will never give a diagnosis ).
If you want to go on and teach others then a Level 3 ( Masters ) qualification is needed plus lots of hands on experience with actual clients and in different situations.
Reiki is a natural energy and often when students take a course and realise they 'know' this energy already. Formal training will give you the skills to use this energy to it's full potential, whether for your own use, for your animals or as the start of a new career path. Some courses stay true to the original Japanese method and others offer a westernised version of Reiki with lots of other elements added, it is worth doing a little research and consider what exactly you want from a class. Different teachers will focus on different aspects and specialities. Animal Reiki Scotland courses are aimed at teaching animal reiki at the highest level where the animals always come first but we do include 'human' practice obviously for self care but it is also important to include owners and caregivers in a treatment plan.
The Animal Reiki Experience workshop has created for people who would like to enjoy some time with animals out in nature sharing a guided meditation and healing space with animals rather than a full Reiki course. This is held at one of our SARA member shelters and is also great as a taster session to find out more about Animal Reiki.
Having a Reiki treatment is beneficial for both people and animals during times of stress or as you would have a massage or spa treatment - just to make you feel good ! ( actually it is a great option for people who don't like massage or spas ).
Learn Reiki and use it everyday, regular practice will instill wellbeing in the lives of people and animals alike. The more you practice and receive Reiki, the more you will feel the flow.
If you want to offer Reiki as a career and charge people for treatments then you will have to qualify in levels 1 & 2 to gain insurance. Level 2 being the practitioner qualification. No previous knowledge of healing or qualifications are needed, the beauty of Reiki is that you don't even need to know where the imbalance or problem is, Reiki will heal the source (responsible practitioners will never give a diagnosis ).
If you want to go on and teach others then a Level 3 ( Masters ) qualification is needed plus lots of hands on experience with actual clients and in different situations.
Reiki is a natural energy and often when students take a course and realise they 'know' this energy already. Formal training will give you the skills to use this energy to it's full potential, whether for your own use, for your animals or as the start of a new career path. Some courses stay true to the original Japanese method and others offer a westernised version of Reiki with lots of other elements added, it is worth doing a little research and consider what exactly you want from a class. Different teachers will focus on different aspects and specialities. Animal Reiki Scotland courses are aimed at teaching animal reiki at the highest level where the animals always come first but we do include 'human' practice obviously for self care but it is also important to include owners and caregivers in a treatment plan.
The Animal Reiki Experience workshop has created for people who would like to enjoy some time with animals out in nature sharing a guided meditation and healing space with animals rather than a full Reiki course. This is held at one of our SARA member shelters and is also great as a taster session to find out more about Animal Reiki.
ARE THERE DIFFERENT TYPES OF REIKI ?
Reiki is the name given to the system developed by Mikao Usui. The word is commonly used for the energy but the original intention was for it to represent the the system that he taught.
The word Reiki is now used a catch all term to describe other types of energy work, but technically no there are not other types of Reiki.
Styles of applying energy or teaching the use of symbols have been developed by individual teachers who have then gone on to brand or trademark that method. As Reiki developed and teachings spread in the West it has been adapted to make sense to the people using it. So does it matter what type we practice ? Not really I suppose if we end up at the same result, but I have found the simple but powerful practices of the Japanese teachings resonate best with animals, speaking for one who has trained in several different types of Reiki with different master teachers.
At Animal Reiki Scotland we offer training in Level 1 Reiki - the traditional Japanese method which can be applied to every living thing includes plants and trees, situations and environments, this is suitable as an introductory course and for anyone who would like to learn Reiki before going on to specialise in Animal Reiki which is taught as The Let Animals Lead Method also for personal stress management and learning how to make Reiki a part of their ongoing wellness routine.
The Let Animals Lead® Method developed by Kathleen Prasad is for people who wish to specialise in animal reiki. It blends traditional Japanese Reiki with techniques and exercises developed by Kathleen over many years of working with animals, she has written a code of ethics into this system, honouring animals as teachers and at every stage of the process. This training is available at Levels 1 and 2. Taking any Let Animals Lead Method course means you can choose to be affiliated with Kathleen's organisation Animal Reiki Source and The Shelter Animal Reiki Association, this will also allow you to take part in Animal Reiki Scotland shelter visits and mentoring sessions.
Another common statement you may hear is that one type of Reiki or level is higher vibration than another. It is actually the 'vibration' of the practitioner that is of importance, for example lets compare two practitioners - one person takes course after course in different levels or systems that claim to offer a higher vibration to the last, without taking the time to practice or apply those teachings to actual people and animals compared with the other who has taken only Level 1 Reiki, practices diligently, incorporates Reiki into their daily life, offers Reiki to others on a regular basis - which one do you think will have the higher vibration ?
Different vibrations can be felt from different things but this doesn't make one thing better than another , just not suited to the practitioner or to the purpose.
In general low vibration things make us feel bad and high vibration, as expected, make us feel good. Low vibration in people or animals indicates physical mental or emotional distress.
There are many forms or names given to energy healing, what is important is that a practitioner works with the one that they are most comfortable with and produces results for the client.
The word Reiki is now used a catch all term to describe other types of energy work, but technically no there are not other types of Reiki.
Styles of applying energy or teaching the use of symbols have been developed by individual teachers who have then gone on to brand or trademark that method. As Reiki developed and teachings spread in the West it has been adapted to make sense to the people using it. So does it matter what type we practice ? Not really I suppose if we end up at the same result, but I have found the simple but powerful practices of the Japanese teachings resonate best with animals, speaking for one who has trained in several different types of Reiki with different master teachers.
At Animal Reiki Scotland we offer training in Level 1 Reiki - the traditional Japanese method which can be applied to every living thing includes plants and trees, situations and environments, this is suitable as an introductory course and for anyone who would like to learn Reiki before going on to specialise in Animal Reiki which is taught as The Let Animals Lead Method also for personal stress management and learning how to make Reiki a part of their ongoing wellness routine.
The Let Animals Lead® Method developed by Kathleen Prasad is for people who wish to specialise in animal reiki. It blends traditional Japanese Reiki with techniques and exercises developed by Kathleen over many years of working with animals, she has written a code of ethics into this system, honouring animals as teachers and at every stage of the process. This training is available at Levels 1 and 2. Taking any Let Animals Lead Method course means you can choose to be affiliated with Kathleen's organisation Animal Reiki Source and The Shelter Animal Reiki Association, this will also allow you to take part in Animal Reiki Scotland shelter visits and mentoring sessions.
Another common statement you may hear is that one type of Reiki or level is higher vibration than another. It is actually the 'vibration' of the practitioner that is of importance, for example lets compare two practitioners - one person takes course after course in different levels or systems that claim to offer a higher vibration to the last, without taking the time to practice or apply those teachings to actual people and animals compared with the other who has taken only Level 1 Reiki, practices diligently, incorporates Reiki into their daily life, offers Reiki to others on a regular basis - which one do you think will have the higher vibration ?
Different vibrations can be felt from different things but this doesn't make one thing better than another , just not suited to the practitioner or to the purpose.
In general low vibration things make us feel bad and high vibration, as expected, make us feel good. Low vibration in people or animals indicates physical mental or emotional distress.
There are many forms or names given to energy healing, what is important is that a practitioner works with the one that they are most comfortable with and produces results for the client.
IS ANIMAL REIKI DIFFERENT TO THE REIKI I SEE ADVERTISED FOR PEOPLE ?
Reiki is Reiki. The difference is in the approach, intention and application.
Animal Reiki is approached in a completely different way to a treatment for people. The animal leads the treatment not the practitioner. In typical treatment for a human client Reiki is received either sitting on a chair or on a treatment couch, usually in a relaxing atmosphere with dimmed lights and relaxing music playing. The practitioner then moves around the client using specific hand positions (placing their hands on specific areas of the body) or just off the body. Most people describe Reiki sessions as deeply relaxing.
In Animal Reiki the practitioner uses a specific method to set up their treatment space and the animal moves around the practitioner who will be able to read and respond to the animals interaction with the Reiki and facilitate the session to offer the best outcome. Animals are allowed to choose the amount of interaction and may choose to touch the practitioner but sessions can be completely contact free, something that is usually welcomed by animals as they are so conditioned to being touched it often gives them a sense of confidence when they realise they have a choice. The practitioner does not use hand positions and animals are never forced into accepting Reiki.
Animal Reiki practitioners usually take specialised training in Animal Reiki as it can be challenging to build confidence in giving treatments this way, using a completely different set of skills, and to work with energy in a non physical way all without the verbal feedback that a human client offers.
A practitioner should be aware of current animal welfare laws, follow a code of ethics and be able to provide you with a copy.
Reiki is Reiki. The difference is in the approach, intention and application.
Animal Reiki is approached in a completely different way to a treatment for people. The animal leads the treatment not the practitioner. In typical treatment for a human client Reiki is received either sitting on a chair or on a treatment couch, usually in a relaxing atmosphere with dimmed lights and relaxing music playing. The practitioner then moves around the client using specific hand positions (placing their hands on specific areas of the body) or just off the body. Most people describe Reiki sessions as deeply relaxing.
In Animal Reiki the practitioner uses a specific method to set up their treatment space and the animal moves around the practitioner who will be able to read and respond to the animals interaction with the Reiki and facilitate the session to offer the best outcome. Animals are allowed to choose the amount of interaction and may choose to touch the practitioner but sessions can be completely contact free, something that is usually welcomed by animals as they are so conditioned to being touched it often gives them a sense of confidence when they realise they have a choice. The practitioner does not use hand positions and animals are never forced into accepting Reiki.
Animal Reiki practitioners usually take specialised training in Animal Reiki as it can be challenging to build confidence in giving treatments this way, using a completely different set of skills, and to work with energy in a non physical way all without the verbal feedback that a human client offers.
A practitioner should be aware of current animal welfare laws, follow a code of ethics and be able to provide you with a copy.
how does the LET ANIMALS LEAD METHOD DIFFER TO OTHER METHODS OF ANIMAL reiki ?
The Let Animals Lead® is the work of Kathleen Prasad, developed over years practicing in animal shelters and teaching Reiki. Kathleen is a highly experienced Reiki Practitioner in her own right she had studied with many teachers from both western and eastern traditions she chose to dedicate her practice to animals. The Let Animals Lead® Method is a trademarked brand.
Kathleen has written beautifully detailed manuals, developed meditations and techniques, formed a world wide network of Animal Reiki Practitioners, written a code of ethics now accepted as the standard in shelters around the world and works tirelessly to promote Animal Reiki as a stand alone profession.
The key techniques that you will learn :
The Let Animals Lead™ method of Animal Reiki
The History of Reiki and The Let Animals Lead™ method
The System of Reiki including the Five Elements of Reiki
The Reiki Precepts
The Japanese energy system : techniques of working with energy
Self-Healing : meditations and hands positions
The Meditations for animal healing
Offering Reiki to a human
Offering Reiki to an animal
The Animal Reiki Code of Ethics and protocols for Animal Reiki
How to set up a daily practice and use Reiki in your life
The Let Animals Lead® is meditation and energy based, so for anyone attracted to Animal Reiki because they get to touch and pet animals, it may not be the method for you - it really is all about the animals !
Kathleen has written beautifully detailed manuals, developed meditations and techniques, formed a world wide network of Animal Reiki Practitioners, written a code of ethics now accepted as the standard in shelters around the world and works tirelessly to promote Animal Reiki as a stand alone profession.
The key techniques that you will learn :
The Let Animals Lead™ method of Animal Reiki
The History of Reiki and The Let Animals Lead™ method
The System of Reiki including the Five Elements of Reiki
The Reiki Precepts
The Japanese energy system : techniques of working with energy
Self-Healing : meditations and hands positions
The Meditations for animal healing
Offering Reiki to a human
Offering Reiki to an animal
The Animal Reiki Code of Ethics and protocols for Animal Reiki
How to set up a daily practice and use Reiki in your life
The Let Animals Lead® is meditation and energy based, so for anyone attracted to Animal Reiki because they get to touch and pet animals, it may not be the method for you - it really is all about the animals !
I AM ALREADY A QUALIFIED REIKI PRACTITIONER, DO I HAVE TO RE-TRAIN IN ANIMAL REIKI to work with animals ?
No absolutely not. Reiki is Reiki.
There are certain restrictions both legal and safety related that you do need to be aware of when working with animals.
It is worth considering that Animal Reiki is becoming a specialism and as such should have it's own protocols and methods.
I started my animal reiki journey before taking any specific training. I always had an affinity with animals and naturally applied any therapy I learned to my animal family ( I am a complementary therapist), they are my family I see no distinction in between species. However once on the path of Animal Reiki I found that taking training dedicated to animals gave me a quicker route to successful outcomes and explained many of the experiences I had had to learn the hard way. If you do decide to take a course with Animal Reiki Scotland you can benefit directly from my experience and the network of animal professionals that I work with.
I developed my Animal Reiki skills firstly in India working at an animal hospital, six weeks of morning till night alongside vets, supporting animals in various states of illness or injury with Reiki and other therapies and then in the UK offering my range of therapies at a large well known animal charity. During that time I was asked to see two special dogs, sad souls that had been in care for a year at that point, staff reported that no real progress was being made in their rehabilitation, as they were still very people shy and could not be handled without major stress or even motivated with treats. The dogs were kennelled together and both were responding well to individual therapies over the weeks one Reiki and the other Essential Oil Therapy, it was at this time that I was came across the work of Kathleen Prasad, Animal Reiki 'pioneer' and decided to try one of her techniques - the change was instant. The dogs were interacting with their care givers within weeks and went on to be successfully rehomed.
I went on to train with Kathleen and now offer her training courses via Animal Reiki Scotland.
A knowledge of animal reactions and acceptance/engagement with Reiki, as well as how to approach different species, is taught in our courses. Consultation techniques, developing treatment plans, client co-operation and holistic lifestyle is part of the complete package that we offer.
Advice on working in rescue and shelter situations is part of our expertise and the many situations you may find yourself in, in fact there are probably very few animal related situations we have not come across from wild animal rescue, new home situations, grief for human and animal companions through to owner abandonment all areas where Animal Reiki can help. For the practitioner this provides a good strong foundation for your training and what to expect working in this field and along with continued support from us, can help you to be the best Animal Reiki practitioner you can be.
End of life care crops up more frequently for Animal Reiki practitioners than those working with a human clientele, it may be something unfamiliar to reiki therapists unless you work in a hospice environment, we can provide support and advice in this sensitive area.
Other courses and workshops you may be interested in to enhance your knowledge or add to your existing skills other courses & workshops...
There are certain restrictions both legal and safety related that you do need to be aware of when working with animals.
It is worth considering that Animal Reiki is becoming a specialism and as such should have it's own protocols and methods.
I started my animal reiki journey before taking any specific training. I always had an affinity with animals and naturally applied any therapy I learned to my animal family ( I am a complementary therapist), they are my family I see no distinction in between species. However once on the path of Animal Reiki I found that taking training dedicated to animals gave me a quicker route to successful outcomes and explained many of the experiences I had had to learn the hard way. If you do decide to take a course with Animal Reiki Scotland you can benefit directly from my experience and the network of animal professionals that I work with.
I developed my Animal Reiki skills firstly in India working at an animal hospital, six weeks of morning till night alongside vets, supporting animals in various states of illness or injury with Reiki and other therapies and then in the UK offering my range of therapies at a large well known animal charity. During that time I was asked to see two special dogs, sad souls that had been in care for a year at that point, staff reported that no real progress was being made in their rehabilitation, as they were still very people shy and could not be handled without major stress or even motivated with treats. The dogs were kennelled together and both were responding well to individual therapies over the weeks one Reiki and the other Essential Oil Therapy, it was at this time that I was came across the work of Kathleen Prasad, Animal Reiki 'pioneer' and decided to try one of her techniques - the change was instant. The dogs were interacting with their care givers within weeks and went on to be successfully rehomed.
I went on to train with Kathleen and now offer her training courses via Animal Reiki Scotland.
A knowledge of animal reactions and acceptance/engagement with Reiki, as well as how to approach different species, is taught in our courses. Consultation techniques, developing treatment plans, client co-operation and holistic lifestyle is part of the complete package that we offer.
Advice on working in rescue and shelter situations is part of our expertise and the many situations you may find yourself in, in fact there are probably very few animal related situations we have not come across from wild animal rescue, new home situations, grief for human and animal companions through to owner abandonment all areas where Animal Reiki can help. For the practitioner this provides a good strong foundation for your training and what to expect working in this field and along with continued support from us, can help you to be the best Animal Reiki practitioner you can be.
End of life care crops up more frequently for Animal Reiki practitioners than those working with a human clientele, it may be something unfamiliar to reiki therapists unless you work in a hospice environment, we can provide support and advice in this sensitive area.
Other courses and workshops you may be interested in to enhance your knowledge or add to your existing skills other courses & workshops...
IS REIKI THE SAME AS ANIMAL COMMUNICATION ?
Reiki is not Animal Communication. An animal communicator, will aim to relay messages directly from the animal, in a session dedicated to this purpose.
Reiki is about holding the space for the animal or human to connect to natural life force energy and work through their own healing process, if the practitioner were to try and actively communicate or direct energy it would distract them from their true purpose of facilitating the Reiki session.
A Reiki practitioner may gain insights or intuition that they will share with the animal's companion if appropriate this type of communication cannot be guaranteed in a session therefore a client may think it unsuccessful and it also can put pressure on the practitioner to come up with something.
Reiki is about holding the space for the animal or human to connect to natural life force energy and work through their own healing process, if the practitioner were to try and actively communicate or direct energy it would distract them from their true purpose of facilitating the Reiki session.
A Reiki practitioner may gain insights or intuition that they will share with the animal's companion if appropriate this type of communication cannot be guaranteed in a session therefore a client may think it unsuccessful and it also can put pressure on the practitioner to come up with something.
i've heard REIKI can MAKE ME PSYCHIC OR HELP ME SEE THE FUTURE ?
It's not likely that you will become psychic or become a medium after being attuned to Reiki if you were not already one before. If this is your goal then we can point you in the direction of psychic development circle which may be more appropriate.
To say that Reiki will give you certain powers is misleading and does Reiki a disservice, as it can put people off learning about Reiki and it's benefits. You can expect to be more aware of natural energy and heightened intuition, often described as becoming aware of the self or higher nature. Like any new therapy it takes work and practice to become familiar with and to sense energy, depending on how aware of energy you were before your attunement it will take some people longer to learn than others, we are all different and it's like exercising a new set of muscles.
You don't have to have any special gifts or talents to learn to learn Reiki. If you can breath you can learn Reiki.
Reiki attracts people from many walks of life with their own belief systems. If you are a spiritual person you may focus on this aspect of using Reiki, others may like to research the more scientific theories of electro magnetic energy and quantum theory as possible explanations of how Reiki works.
Reiki will help you develop your intuition, sense of self and confidence and is a wonderful aid to any self development work you may be undertaking.
If you feel drawn to follow a spiritual path then Reiki WILL help focus your skills and any gifts you may have. Developing a daily Reiki practice can give you the tools to quieten your mind and become aware of your own and others energy, essential for any spiritual practice you may want to develop whether that is to deepen your connection with Reiki or other spiritual modalities.
To say that Reiki will give you certain powers is misleading and does Reiki a disservice, as it can put people off learning about Reiki and it's benefits. You can expect to be more aware of natural energy and heightened intuition, often described as becoming aware of the self or higher nature. Like any new therapy it takes work and practice to become familiar with and to sense energy, depending on how aware of energy you were before your attunement it will take some people longer to learn than others, we are all different and it's like exercising a new set of muscles.
You don't have to have any special gifts or talents to learn to learn Reiki. If you can breath you can learn Reiki.
Reiki attracts people from many walks of life with their own belief systems. If you are a spiritual person you may focus on this aspect of using Reiki, others may like to research the more scientific theories of electro magnetic energy and quantum theory as possible explanations of how Reiki works.
Reiki will help you develop your intuition, sense of self and confidence and is a wonderful aid to any self development work you may be undertaking.
If you feel drawn to follow a spiritual path then Reiki WILL help focus your skills and any gifts you may have. Developing a daily Reiki practice can give you the tools to quieten your mind and become aware of your own and others energy, essential for any spiritual practice you may want to develop whether that is to deepen your connection with Reiki or other spiritual modalities.
title 17
I want to give reiki to animals at my local rescue centre so i need special training or to be a member of sara ?
It is entirely dependant on the shelter or rescue organisation as to their policy regarding volunteers. If you are a practitioner you may want to check with your insurance company that your visits will be covered, but other than that there is no legally official register of any sort that we are aware of.
In my experience shelters have been wary of inviting Reiki practitioners to work with their animals mainly because they do not know how they go about delivering the treatment, the animals come first and they don't want them to become stressed in any way. Reiki had up until recently mostly been taught in a structured hands on style, the other issue can be that practitioners become overwhelmed and upset seeing or hearing about ill or injured animals and that in turn upsets the animals.
The benefits of belonging to an organisation such as SARA is that you are part of a support network and continuing education in Animal Reiki, including presentation materials to introduce Reiki to shelters. The founders and teaching members of SARA have a huge wealth of knowledge and experience specialising in Animal Reiki across the globe in a variety of shelters and settings. Advice on working in rescue is part of our expertise and can prepare you for the many situations you may find yourself in, in fact there are probably very few animal related situations we have not come across ! from wild animal rescue, new home situations, grief for human and animal companions through to owner abandonment all areas where Animal Reiki can help. A good strong foundation in training and continued support from us can help you in your rescue work.
In my experience shelters have been wary of inviting Reiki practitioners to work with their animals mainly because they do not know how they go about delivering the treatment, the animals come first and they don't want them to become stressed in any way. Reiki had up until recently mostly been taught in a structured hands on style, the other issue can be that practitioners become overwhelmed and upset seeing or hearing about ill or injured animals and that in turn upsets the animals.
The benefits of belonging to an organisation such as SARA is that you are part of a support network and continuing education in Animal Reiki, including presentation materials to introduce Reiki to shelters. The founders and teaching members of SARA have a huge wealth of knowledge and experience specialising in Animal Reiki across the globe in a variety of shelters and settings. Advice on working in rescue is part of our expertise and can prepare you for the many situations you may find yourself in, in fact there are probably very few animal related situations we have not come across ! from wild animal rescue, new home situations, grief for human and animal companions through to owner abandonment all areas where Animal Reiki can help. A good strong foundation in training and continued support from us can help you in your rescue work.
what is sara ?
We are a group of Reiki practitioner and teacher volunteers committed to supporting rescued animals and their caregivers with Animal Reiki. With the use of Let Animals Lead® Method, practitioners are able to offer a support system for animals and their caregivers by providing a positive space where they can relax, self-heal and re-balance. Our experience has shown that the Let Animals Lead® Method can help animals become more adoptable, help their caretakers stay strong and calm in even the most difficult situations and support all aspects of healing.
Unlike many Animal Reiki organizations, SARA makes it a priority to ensure animals ALWAYS have a choice in the healing process.
Our guiding principles include:
1. Believing animals are equal partners in the healing process
2. Honouring animals as teachers in the journey of healing
3. Understanding that all animals have physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects, to which Reiki can bring profound healing responses
4. Believing that bringing Reiki to the human/animal relationship is transformational to the human view of the animal kingdom
5. Dedicate yourself to the virtues of humility, integrity, compassion and gratitude
Unlike many Animal Reiki organizations, SARA makes it a priority to ensure animals ALWAYS have a choice in the healing process.
Our guiding principles include:
1. Believing animals are equal partners in the healing process
2. Honouring animals as teachers in the journey of healing
3. Understanding that all animals have physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects, to which Reiki can bring profound healing responses
4. Believing that bringing Reiki to the human/animal relationship is transformational to the human view of the animal kingdom
5. Dedicate yourself to the virtues of humility, integrity, compassion and gratitude
WHAT SUPPORT CAN I EXPECT AFTER A COURSE ?
You will be able to contact me at any time by phone, email or via the contact form on the website about anything that comes up in practice or with any questions.
A FaceBook Group is also set up for each class and there is a dedicated student login on the website.
Development of your skills will depend on your commitment to your own practice, I cannot practice for you and like any new skill, practice makes perfect !
A Reiki development group (Reiki Share) is held monthly at The Pet Empawrium in East Kilbride, for all students that have trained with Animal Reiki Scotland/SARA/Animal Reiki Source.
A FaceBook Group is also set up for each class and there is a dedicated student login on the website.
Development of your skills will depend on your commitment to your own practice, I cannot practice for you and like any new skill, practice makes perfect !
A Reiki development group (Reiki Share) is held monthly at The Pet Empawrium in East Kilbride, for all students that have trained with Animal Reiki Scotland/SARA/Animal Reiki Source.
WHAT PRECAUTIONS ARE YOU TAKING DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ?
During this time we are complying strictly with government guidelines and advice issued by our insurance company.
It does mean some indoor classes have limited places available.
Our methods have always emphasised a NON CONTACT approach to Reiki.
For your treatment session you may want to consider remote (distant) sessions as an alternative to in person visits.
Before every class, appointment or group meeting we will issue you with up to date instructions what is required for a safe visit both for yourself, your animals and our staff.
Schedules may change at short notice following government advice.
It does mean some indoor classes have limited places available.
Our methods have always emphasised a NON CONTACT approach to Reiki.
For your treatment session you may want to consider remote (distant) sessions as an alternative to in person visits.
Before every class, appointment or group meeting we will issue you with up to date instructions what is required for a safe visit both for yourself, your animals and our staff.
Schedules may change at short notice following government advice.
