While the Chakra system isn't directly part of Reiki, it is helpful to learn about to get a deeper understanding of energy healing. Influenced by his Buddhist practice, which includes the Chakra system, Master Mikao Usui's spiritual exploration led him to the development of Reiki. It is likely that his knowledge of the Chakras had an influence on the way he developed the healing system of Reiki.
Chakras are energy centers within the subtle body, according to various spiritual traditions, particularly those of Hinduism and Buddhism. These energy centers are believed to play an important role in regulating the flow of life force energy (qi) throughout the body. Each chakra is associated with specific physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of human experience.
In western culture, there are typically 7-15 Chakras acknowledged with the 7 Chakra System being the most common. However, as I was taught about the 12 Chakra System in my own Reiki training, that is what I will share with you here.
Here's a brief overview of the 12 Chakra system:
Root Chakra (Muladhara): Located at the base of the spine, it governs our sense of security, stability, and basic survival instincts.
Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana): Positioned in the lower abdomen, it influences creativity, sexuality, and emotional balance.
Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura): Situated above the navel, it regulates self-esteem, personal power, and willpower.
Heart Chakra (Anahata): Found in the center of the chest, it fosters love, compassion, and emotional healing.
Throat Chakra (Vishuddha): Located in the throat region, it governs communication, self-expression, and truth.
Third Eye Chakra (Ajna): Positioned between the eyebrows, it enhances intuition, insight, and spiritual awareness.
Crown Chakra (Sahasrara): Situated at the top of the head, it connects us to higher consciousness, spirituality, and divine wisdom.
Soul Star Chakra: Positioned above the head, it facilitates divine connection, spiritual growth, and cosmic consciousness.
Causal Chakra: Located behind the head, it stores karmic energy, soul memories, and past-life experiences.
Earth Star Chakra: Situated below the feet, it anchors us to the Earth's energy, providing grounding and stability.
Hand Chakras: Found in the palms, they enhance energy healing abilities and facilitate the flow of healing energy.
Foot Chakras: Positioned in the soles of the feet, they ground us to the Earth's energy and support our physical connection with the world.
In a Reiki session, the Chakras can serve as a map for practitioners to identify areas of imbalance and facilitate healing. The practitioner assesses the client's Chakra system, identifies imbalances, and channels Reiki energy to those specific Chakras to restore balance and promote harmony.
It is a good idea to treat the front and back of the Chakras. While the front Chakras are associated with the present moment, addressing the back Chakras is crucial as they are linked to past experiences and traumas. Practitioners may offer guidance to clients on self-care practices to maintain Chakra balance between sessions.
Using the Chakra system as a guide in healing sessions, the client's energy system becomes more aligned, leading to feelings of relaxation and well-being. By harmonizing both the front and back Chakras with Reiki energy, practitioners can help restore balance, release blockages, and promote overall well-being on all levels - physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual.