The Connection Between Reiki and Chakras
Understanding Reiki and Chakras: Distinct Practices, Common Misconceptions
Reiki and chakras are often discussed together, but it's important to understand their separate origins and purposes.
Reiki In A Nutshell
Reiki, originating from Japan, focuses on enhancing the recovery and healthy functionality of body and mind through different techniques including (but not limited to) hand palm-healing. It has been known for roughly 100 years now, and works with universal life force energy along energy pathways, similar to those in acupuncture.
Chakras In A Nutshell
Chakras, on the other hand, come from Indian spiritual traditions over 1000 years ago. They represent energy centers along the body's axis, each symbolizing different aspects of consciousness, human development and well-being. The chakra system is metaphorical, serving as a tool for meditation, introspection and spiritual connection. You can read more about it here.
Misunderstandings Of Chakras In Reiki
Despite their different origins, many practitioners combine these systems. However, it's crucial to understand and respect their distinct philosophies when doing so.
A concerning trend is the idea that one can have a “blocked chakra” or "missing chakra" that needs to be “reopened”, "returned", “reactivated”, etc. through expensive interventions. This notion is false and exploitative, as chakras are metaphysical concepts, not physical entities that can be lost in any way. Such fear-based practices deviate from authentic spiritual guidance.
Be wary of any spiritual teacher or practitioner who uses fear-based claims to convince you of his or her service or teachings, especially those suggesting you're "energetically incomplete" without paying for their services. True healing and spiritual growth should empower you, not make you feel dependent or fearful.
How Reiki And The Chakra-Concept Got Mixed
The blend of the two systems happened in the mid 1980s with the trend of bringing ancient Asian spiritual concepts to the West and “simplify” them. This simplification has often lead to an incomplete understanding of these concepts but yet, in the times of the New Age trend, the introduction of Chakras opened doors for hundreds of new spiritual healing practices.
Reiki and the Chakra-System
Core differences between the two concepts
and how they were meant to be used.
How To Work With The Chakra-Concept
Does it mean the chakra-concept is “bad” and we shouldn’t use it? Absolutely not!
Here's a simple and practical way to use the chakra concept for self-care, focusing on personal reflection:
Set aside some quiet time for yourself, perhaps 15-20 minutes.
Find a comfortable seated position and take a few deep breaths to relax.
Starting from the base of your spine and moving upward, reflect on different aspects of your life associated with each chakra:
Root (base of spine): Consider your sense of safety and security. Are your basic needs met?
Sacral (lower abdomen): Reflect on your emotional well-being and creativity. Are you expressing yourself freely?
Solar Plexus (upper abdomen): Think about your self-esteem and personal power. Do you feel confident in your abilities?
Heart (center of chest): Contemplate your relationships and capacity for love and compassion. Are you open to giving and receiving love?
Throat (throat area): Consider your communication skills. Are you expressing yourself honestly and clearly?
Third Eye (between eyebrows): Reflect on your intuition and insight. Are you trusting your inner wisdom?
Crown (top of head): Think about your sense of purpose and connection to something greater than yourself.
As you reflect on each area, notice if any feel particularly significant to you at this time. There's no need to "fix" anything; simply being aware is valuable.
Close your practice by taking a few deep breaths and acknowledging yourself for taking this time for self-reflection.
This practice uses the chakra system as a framework for a holistic self-check-in, helping you to consider different aspects of your well-being. It's not about manipulating energy, but about using this metaphorical map to guide your self-reflection and personal growth.
I wish you a magnificent journey and experience with the chakra-system.
