Question 1

What is Reiki?

Accepted Answer

Reiki, a Japanese therapy developed in the late 19th century, is pronounced as 'ray-key'. It aims to increase energy levels and promote relaxation and well-being through non-invasive, non-manipulative, gentle touch.

The philosophy behind Reiki is that low energy levels can lead to stress and illness, while high energy levels can promote happiness and well-being. Although Reiki cannot cure illnesses or diseases, it can help your body feel more relaxed and peaceful. 
 
Numerous explanations and definitions for Reiki are available on the internet. However, ARC prefers to use the explanation written by WendyJoy Smith, the founder of ARC. This is available to read on the dedicated What is Reiki page on this site. 
 (By clicking on this link, you will be directed to a different page. You can easily navigate to the FAQ section using the main menu.)

Question 2

What is the Usui System of Reiki?

Accepted Answer

The System of Reiki is a Complementary, safe, vibrational / energy healing practice/therapy that promotes balance in mind, body, and spirit. It is a painless, non-manipulative, non-invasive treatment and does not interfere with any form of medical or therapeutic treatment.
The Usui system of reiki was developed in Japan by Mikao Usui, a Buddhist monk, at the beginning of the 20th century. It was introduced to the West in 1938 by a Japanese-American woman, Hawayo Takata.

The majority of Reiki treatments provided worldwide by Reiki practitioners is the Usui System of Reiki 
​
Many healing systems claim to be Reiki, which are in fact, not.
Read the History of the Usui System of Reiki here
 (this will take you to another page, you can return to FAQ via the main menu)

Question 3

Can anyone learn Reiki?

Accepted Answer

Yes anyone can learn Reiki.

For Level I Reiki there is no per-requisites and you do not even have to believe in Reiki to either learn it or benefit from it. For Level 2  you need to have been trained and attuned to Level I Reiki.

For Level 3 / Teacher you have to have been trained in both Level I and Level 2 Reiki.

Question 4

Where can I learn Reiki??

Accepted Answer

The best way to find a Reiki Teacher is by referral from friends, or you can contact the various professional Reiki associations such as ARC. Many of these have a directory of referred Teachers who meet the required criteria for professional Teachers. In order to find the right Reiki teacher, it is important for you to feel comfortable with and trust them. ARC suggests that you first experience a Reiki treatment from your prospective teacher and see if they feel right for you.

Be sure to find out which form of Reiki they are teaching, that they have had hands on in-person training and Attunements, that can provide you with a copy of their Teaching Lineage, have the necessary Insurance and adhere to the Legally binding Codes of Conduct for Health Care Workers. 
Visit ARC's Directory of Referred Professional Reiki Teachers here

Question 5

What questions should I ask a Reiki Master Teacher?

Accepted Answer

How long have you been working with Reiki?
What training have you had?
Did you receive hands-on in-person Reiki training and hands-on in-person attunements?
What is your Reiki lineage?
Do you teach the Usui System of Reiki?
How often do you teach?
How do you personally use Reiki?
What do you cover in your classes?
How many actual teaching hours are in your class?
How many are instructional, and how many are hands-on practices?
What are your fees? Will I receive a certificate and a manual?
How many symbols will I learn?
(Note from ARC: In the Usui System of Reiki, no symbols are taught at Level I, three at Level 2 and one at Master / Teacher Level)
Do you provide follow-up support for your students?
Do you abide by a code of ethics and professional practice?
Do you abide by National and Local laws? 
Do you abide by the Statutory National Code of Conduct for Health Care Workers?
Are you a financial member of a professional Reiki Association?
If so, which one, and are you a referred Reiki teacher with them?
​
You should ask any other questions you may have which are not mentioned above.
Be aware of how you feel about their answers. Listen to your heart, and you will be guided to the right teacher.

Question 6

Can I learn and be Attuned to Reiki online?

Accepted Answer

There are many, mainly overseas, who are teaching Reiki this way. However, be aware that ARC and other reputable Reiki organisations do NOT accept as members anyone who has not received in-person, hands-on training and hands-on in-person attunements.

Teachers who have been trained and attuned online and who then go on to teach hands-on to their students will not have those students accepted as members by ARC.

As a student of Reiki, it is advisable for you to ascertain if your teacher has had online training or attunements (see the above questions to ask a Reiki teacher).

As a Professional Reiki Association, ARC has advocated for the Usui System of Reiki and for our members to raise their profile, professionalism, and training standards. It is within our right not to accept individuals who have opted for online training and attunements by distance. (And that is their choice and their right)

Usui was physically present when he attuned his followers. This is backed up by firsthand accounts from people such as Hayashi. 
On that basis alone, as Usui performed attunements in person, it would be disrespectful of his work if we didn't do the same.

Question 7

Do I have to join a Reiki Association?

Accepted Answer

No
Although not mandatory, Reiki Association membership can provide numerous benefits for both practitioners and teachers.
 
As Reiki continues to gain popularity and more individuals become practitioners and teachers, it can be challenging for the public to discern whom to trust.

Being aware that membership in a reputable and professional Reiki association ensures adherence to ethical codes, practice insurance, professional standards, and first aid requirements can provide reassurance in selecting the right practitioner or teacher.

On a daily basis the Australian Reiki Connection receives recommendations requests from the public for referrals to Professional Practitioners and Teachers.

Question 8

How can I find a Professional Reiki Practitioner or Teacher?

Accepted Answer

The best way to find a Professional Reiki practitioner is by referral from friends, or you can contact the Australian Reiki Connection, whose directories of referred practitioners and teachers contain a list of members who meet the required criteria for professional practitioners and teachers.

Check out ARC's Directory of Referred Professional Reiki Practitioners 
And our Directory of Referred Professional Reiki Teachers

A professional Reiki practitioner is someone who has completed at least the second level of a Reiki course and abides by the legally binding National and State Codes of Conduct for Health Care Workers, preferably a member of a professional Reiki Association (although this is not obligatory).

These Reiki associations will have their own set of standards of practice and codes of ethics that practitioners must abide by.

Question 9

Why choose an ARC Professional Reiki Treatment Practitioners ?

Accepted Answer

In today’s fast-paced world, stress, anxiety, and physical discomfort have become all too common. Achieving balance in mind, body, and spirit is essential for overall well-being. That’s where the Australian Reiki Connection Inc. (ARC) professional Reiki practitioners come in — offering expert healing sessions designed to promote deep relaxation, energy alignment, and holistic wellness.

What Sets ARC Professional Reiki Practitioners Apart?
At ARC, our practitioners uphold the highest professional standards, ensuring every client receives ethical, effective, and compassionate care. Here’s what makes ARC stand out:

Certified and Experienced Practitioners - All ARC professional Reiki treatment practitioners are rigorously vetted, having provided verified proof of their minimum Level Two Reiki training and certification. Each practitioner has received in-person, hands-on attunements and comprehensive training directly from their Reiki teacher, ensuring the highest standard of authentic Reiki practice.

Personalised Healing Sessions - Each session is tailored to address individual needs, whether for physical relief, emotional balance, or spiritual growth.

A Holistic Approach to Wellness - Our practitioners can integrate mindfulness, energy balancing, and intuitive healing techniques to support transformation on every level.

Commitment to Ethical Practice - ARC practitioners adhere to strict codes of conduct, including ARC’s Code of Ethics and Professional Practice and the legally binding Australian National Code of Conduct for Health Care Workers. They also comply with all local, state, and federal regulations, ensuring a safe, professional, and respectful healing environment

The Benefits of Reiki with ARC Professionals
Reiki is a gentle yet powerful healing modality that channels universal life force energy to restore balance and well-being. When you choose an ARC professional Reiki practitioner, you can experience:

✅ Deep relaxation and stress relief
✅ Reduction in physical pain and discomfort
✅ Emotional healing and mental clarity
✅ Enhanced spiritual awareness and personal growth
✅ Improved sleep and overall well-being

Why Choose ARC for Your Reiki Journey?
Whether new to Reiki or seeking to deepen your healing practice, ARC provides a trusted, professional, and supportive environment. Our practitioners are skilled in energy healing and passionate about guiding clients toward greater peace, health, and balance.

Choosing an ARC professional Reiki practitioner means investing in high-quality care and prioritising your well-being. They are dedicated to helping you restore harmony in your life, one healing session at a time.

Book Your Reiki Session Today!
Are you ready to experience the transformative power of Reiki? Take the first step toward a more balanced, harmonious, and energised life.

📍 Find a qualified ARC Reiki practitioner near you: Visit our directory of Referred Reiki Practitioners Australia-Wide

ARC only refers Reiki Treatment Practitioners solely for Usui System of Reiki treatments. 
They have completed minimum Level II Reiki training and provided proof of their Professional Indemnity & Public Liability Insurance and a current HLTAID011 First Aid Certificate.

Your journey to healing starts now!

Question 10

Why choose an ARC Professional Reiki Teacher?

Accepted Answer

Choosing the right teacher is essential to ensure you receive the highest quality training and guidance if you're considering learning Reiki. The Australian Reiki Connection (ARC) upholds the highest standards for professional Reiki practitioners and teachers, ensuring that all ARC Professional Reiki Teachers meet strict qualifications and ethical guidelines.

What Sets ARC Professional Reiki Teachers Apart?
Qualified and Experienced Teachers
Every ARC Professional Reiki Teacher has completed the Reiki Teacher training level, demonstrating an advanced understanding of Reiki and its applications. This ensures students receive comprehensive and authentic instruction grounded in the USUI System of Reiki principles.
Fully Insured for Your Peace of Mind
To maintain professional standards, all ARC Reiki Teachers provide a copy of their current Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance certificate. This protects students and practitioners and fosters a safe and responsible learning environment.
Certified in First Aid
Safety and well-being are paramount in Reiki practice. ARC Professional Reiki Teachers hold a valid HLTAID011 First Aid Certificate, ensuring they can respond appropriately to any health emergencies that may arise during training or practice.
Adherence to Ethical and Legal Standards
ARC Professional Reiki Teachers strictly abide by:
The ARC Codes of Ethics and Professional Practice outline Reiki practitioners' ethical and professional responsibilities.
The legally binding National Code of Conduct for Health Care Workers ensures safe, respectful, and accountable interactions with students and clients.
All Local, State/Territory, and Federal Laws related to Australia's health care and Reiki practice.

Commitment to Traditional Reiki Training
The Australian Reiki Connection does not accept online Reiki classes or Distant Attunements and will not recognise certificates issued by Reiki Teachers who conduct training in this manner. While respecting the choice of others, ARC upholds the belief that Reiki training should be an in-person experience, allowing for hands-on practice, direct mentorship, and a deeper connection between teacher and student.

Why This Matters for You
Choosing an ARC Professional Reiki Teacher means investing in a high-quality, ethical, and safe Reiki education. Whether you’re new to Reiki or seeking to advance your practice, learning from an ARC-recognised teacher ensures that you receive genuine and well-rounded training, setting you on the path to becoming a skilled and responsible Reiki practitioner.

Are you ready to begin or deepen your Reiki journey with a trusted and experienced teacher? 
Find an ARC Professional Reiki Teacher today and experience the benefits of authentic Reiki training. 
Visit our Directory of Qualified Reiki Teachers Australia-Wide

Your journey to healing starts now!

Question 11

What happens during a Reiki Treatment?

Accepted Answer

You will be asked to lie on a table or sit in a chair.
The practitioner places their hands on or just above your body in sequences of positions.
Unlike massage, a Reiki session does not involve any form of physical manipulation.
You do not need to remove any clothing, and no private body parts are touched.
During a session, you may feel warmth or cold, a tingling sensation, slight twitching, a rumbling tummy, or absolutely nothing.
A complete Reiki session can last from 60 to 90 minutes.
To find out more, visit this page: About Reiki Treatments.

Question 12

What are the benefits of a Reiki Treatment?

Accepted Answer

Reiki can contribute to a person’s well-being by making them feel:
Relaxed
Peaceful
More energetic
Less pain
Help reduce the side effects of chemotherapy
Help reduce stress and anxiety
Help accelerate healing

Read more about the benefits of Reiki Treatments here

Question 13

What questions should I ask a Reiki Practitioner?

Accepted Answer

Do you abide by a code of ethics and professional practice?
Do you abide by National and Local laws? 
Do you abide by the Statutory Code of Conduct for Health Care Workers?
Are you a financial member of a professional Reiki Association?
If so, which one and are you a referred Reiki Practitioner with them?
Do you have professional indemnity and public liability insurance?
Do you have first aid (HLTAID011) available at the time of treatment?
What are your Reiki qualifications, and do professional Reiki Associations recognise them?
What form of Reiki do you practice?
Do you have a recognised Lineage for your form of Reiki?
Do you add other therapies or modalities during the Reiki Treatment, and if so, what are they, and why do you include them in a Reiki treatment?
What are your hours, and do I need to make an appointment?
What do you charge for a Reiki treatment, and are there any other costs involved?
What happens if a session goes over time?
Do you take notes? What happens to them? 
Can I read them? If not, why?

Question 14

I do not intend to treat the public. Can I join ARC?

Accepted Answer

ARC has opened up applications for the Non-Professional Member category.

Many Reiki practitioners and teachers only use Reiki to treat themselves, family, friends, plants, and animals. They do not intend to provide Reiki treatments to the general public in a professional capacity. They do not have insurance or first aid certification. The Non-Professional Member category is to facilitate your inclusion and connection with the Reiki community.

ARC is a community of Reiki Practitioners, Teachers and Students of Reiki who offer friendship and share professional ideals with like-minded travellers along the Reiki path, aiming to foster a community spirit within global Reiki. ARC has always promoted and preserved Reiki as a spiritual practice first.
​
All members are kept up to date with information and current developments as they relate to Reiki in Australia and overseas. This is done through our regular Members-only ARC INK Newsletter.

Question 15

Can ARC Practitioners and Teachers ask questions relating to their practice and membership?

Accepted Answer

Yes.

The team in the ARC office are available to answer questions in any way they can; please use the Contact form at the very bottom of the website homepage.

Questions can be asked in the members-only ARC Facebook group.

In the ARC website members-only area, there is a selection of FAQs from Reiki Practitioners and Teachers.

Question 16

Does learning Reiki Level 1 qualify me as a professional practitioner?

Accepted Answer

No.

Level 1 Reiki is for self-use and providing treatments to family and friends. It can also be used on plants and animals.

Frequently Asked Questions on Reiki and Reiki Training