IndexArticles
10th Mar 2009
Reiki is a Japanese healing technique that treats the whole body. Loosely translated, Reiki means universal life force energy, and like acupuncture and homeopathy, Reiki is an energy healing modality. The practitioner is attuned to the energy and acts as a vessel through which the Reiki flows, usually from the hands, to where it is most needed. The basic philosophy teaches that illness is a result of energy blockages within the body or aura. Reiki practitioners help release these blockages by drawing on the universal life force energy and guiding it to the patient.
Reiki is an ideal natural therapy for animals. It is gentle, relaxing and non-invasive, and can be sent over distances. Reiki is of great benefit for physical, emotional, and mental issues of all kinds including stress, discomfort, anxiety, illnesses and injuries. Human patients describe feeling calm, deeply relaxed, eased of pain, refreshed, as well as a general sense of improved wellbeing after Reiki. Observations of animals that receive Reiki indicate that they too experience many of the same benefits.
A Reiki session usually involves placing the hands on or near the animal’s body. Some animals, especially when being introduced to Reiki for the first time, prefer that the Reiki be sent from a short distance. They can then move closer on their own terms. Common signs of an animal feeling and accepting Reiki include sniffing and licking at the practitioner’s hands, turning to push an area of the body requiring special attention towards the hands, yawning and lying down, or even falling asleep.
No, all animals can receive Reiki. It can be sent to individuals or entire herds, and the way animals react to the energy will vary from animal to animal.
Dogs often initiate their Reiki session by racing up to the practitioner to say hello. They then make themselves comfortable and look as though they want to say, ‘what took you so long!’. Sheba, a regular to Reiki, jumps out of her owner’s car, runs up the path, straight into the house and into the Reiki room. She can go months between treatments and still reacts in the same way when arriving for her session. Of course some dogs are a little less excited, but by the end of each session, they are resting and relaxed.
Cats are their usual independent selves, choosing to roam the room until they are used to the energy. They will then settle and sleep or try to climb on the practitioner’s lap for a more hands-on approach. Duke, a Manx, jumps up on the couch next to his practitioner, starts purring madly and flops across her lap, settling in for a good half hour whenever he feels the desire.
Large animals such as horses are also very receptive to the energy. In general, they seem to be more aware of exactly what they need, showing the practitioner where they want the energy directed and then walking away once the job is done.
Small animals and birds can be given Reiki while they are in their cage or enclosure, although some animals don’t mind being held in the practitioner’s hands. Small animals can easily become stressed so always ensure they are comfortable, relaxed, and happy to be held.
Animals with a history of mistreatment, neglect or abuse can greatly benefit from Reiki. It is a lovely way to help them learn to trust again, and to associate pleasant experiences with people and touch. Reiki practitioners asked to spend time with these kinds of animals or volunteering at shelters have even greater responsibility not to cross any boundaries set by the animal. If you share your life with a rescued animal, consider treating him to some Reiki.
Seniors with aches, pains and age related conditions are often low in energy and usually really enjoy a Reiki treatment. Be aware that older animals can be very sensitive, and sometimes less can be more. They may not tolerate hands on healing, especially over sore joints and around the head and eyes so encourage your Reiki practitioner to start off slowly and from a short distance.
Yes. This is the wonderful thing about Reiki. It can be safely and effectively used in conjunction with conventional veterinary treatments and medications, and other alternative therapies. Please note that Reiki is not a substitute for responsible veterinary care and advice.
Anyone who has at least a Reiki I certificate can send the energy to animals, and people with Reiki II can send over distances. Those with an Animal Reiki certificate have had specific advice about how best to approach different animals, when best to refer the animal onto a veterinarian, and advice about animal behaviour for their own safety and the safety of the animals. When looking for someone to give your pet Reiki, ensure that they have had experience working with animals. They must obviously love animals and be happy to chat about what you feel your animal needs most from a Reiki session. Alternatively, find a local Reiki Master who runs Reiki courses and learn it yourself! Reiki is a truly wonderful way to bond with your animals.
Local Reiki practitioners: Eileen McLean, 07 3352 3108, Alderley (Brisbane) | Donna Bolton, 07 3386 1358, Yatala (Gold Coast) | Diana Green, 0401 013 855, Southport (Gold Coast)
Eileen McLean is a Natural Animal Therapist providing natural therapies, homeopathy, nutritional advice and Reiki for all animals through her award winning, Brisbane-based business Natural Animal Care. Eileen also regularly runs Animal Reiki courses. For more information visit www.naturalanimalcare.com, e-mail info@naturalanimalcare.com or ph 07 3352 3108
