I have just finished taking a course in
Animal Reiki and must say it was great! In the past I have treated animals to best of my ability but often felt a little funny while doing it because I wasn't sure exactly what I was doing. There is a lot of information out there about Reiki and people but very little on working within the animal kingdom.
Here are some of the main points that were discussed during the program:
- Ask permission prior to sending(either verbally or in thought).
- Very Important - State that the animal only take as much (if any) as they want. You would be amazed at how much of a difference this makes during a treatment.
- The smaller the animal, the more sensitive they can be, so pay attention to their body language.
- Animals may have a tendency to wander when receiving Reiki, but with observation they will give you signs they are open and receptive to it.
- Treatment times will vary. Smaller animals may take shorter treatments, but that is a generality. Many animals soak up Reiki and really like it for as long as they can get it.
- Most animals prefer hands off, those who want hands on will let you know.
- Avoid looking directly into the animals eyes when treating, this can be seen as aggressive behavior to them.
- Pay attention to body language of the animal. They will let you know if they are open or closed to receiving as well as when they are done.
- If treating a family pet, explain to the humans everything you would explain if you were treating them, help them to understand.
- Do not, under any circumstances, 'force' a treatment on an animal. If they are clearly giving a 'no signal' respect that boundary!
- Always take the time to thank the animal for their participation in their healing, and for allowing you to help out.
- The more you work with animals, the more you will be able to 'tune into' their thoughts and feelings. If you get messages show respect for the animal and discuss only what is needed with the human. Some animals will share their experiences with you, but not want their humans to know. Much like doctor/patient confidentiality. Use your discretion.
- Most importantly: DO NOT EVER DIAGNOSE AN ANIMALS CONDITION! If you do pick up on a condition that leaves you concerned, encourage the human to take the animal to a qualified vet.
I have worked on a number of different animals both prior to this course and during it. Here is a partial list of the species I have been fortunate enough to be able to work with: a variety of birds (smallest chickadees to largest being condors), mountain sheep, bison, black bears, assortment of monkeys, cats (domestic & wild), dogs, fish, elephants, camels, elk,deer, squirrels, and even a rabbit.
Working with animals is amazing, and if you have ever thought about it even lightly, I would encourage you to try it out. Your own pets are a good starting point. If you don't have any, see if friends or family would be interested in their pets being treated. If no one in your network has pets, look no further than outdoors, the local animal shelters, vet clinics and even your local zoo. You'll be doing both yourself and the animals a tremendous favor by taking some time to share Reiki with them. It certainly helped to deepen my connection to Reiki and the understanding of life in different forms.
With light and love,
FP
