During my Reiki training I was given very little instruction on how to actually begin a Reiki session. I was taught that setting the intention to begin the flow of Reiki could be done in any way that felt right to the practitioner.
To invoke Reiki means to initiate the flow of energy for healing purposes. This can also be referred to as activating Reiki or turning on Reiki.
Preparing to Invoke Reiki
Before invoking Reiki, it is important to prepare yourself and your space. You may want to set an intention for the session and create a peaceful, calming atmosphere by lighting candles or playing soft music. Once you are ready, you can begin the invocation.
The invocation is a prayer or statement that sets the intention for the Reiki session and calls upon the universal life energy to flow through you and into the recipient for the highest good or with a specific healing intention.
Here is an example invocation:
"I call upon the universal life energy to flow through me and into this space. I ask that this energy be used for the highest good of all beings involved in this Reiki session. May it bring healing to any physical, emotional, or spiritual imbalances that may be present. I invoke the power of Reiki to guide and support this healing process. May this session be filled with love, light, and healing."
This invocation can be modified or personalized to fit your own beliefs and intentions. The key is to open yourself up to the flow of universal life energy and allow it to guide your healing work.
Beginning a Session
After the invocation, the Reiki practitioner will typically begin the session by placing their hands on or near the recipient's body in a series of positions to facilitate the flow of energy. The practitioner may also use symbols and visualization techniques to enhance the healing process.
Invoking Reiki initiates the flow of universal life energy for healing purposes. By setting an intention and calling upon this energy, you can create a sacred space for healing to take place. Remember to trust in the power of Reiki and allow the energy to guide your hands and your intuition.