Free Advice from Animal Reiki Shaman, Rose De Dan
Reader Question: Is there a right/wrong way, or suggestions how to do Reiki on my dogs? I have been attuned in Reiki 1 (a few years ago) & Reiki 2 (in March). It occurred to me I hadn't done Reiki with my 2 dogs so I tried to do it. They don't want me to just hold my hands over them or in one spot as they want to be petted by my hands (of course -- they are dogs). So while stroking my dog, I made the master symbol just intended for the higher good; one itches a lot so I'm going to see if Reiki can help with that. But, my hands have to keep moving or he gets annoyed/confused. Any right or wrong way about this (in terms of keeping the movement versus stationary)? Or would it be more effective to do a distance healing?
~Anne
Response from Rose: Dear Anne, congratulations on your recent completion of training in Reiki Level 2!
While it is easy to bypass many of the challenges you mention by simply sending the Reiki to your dog(s), I might use a combination of approaches instead.
I would suggest asking your dog to help you practice your new skills. Approach the session by stating (to yourself), "I ask that this Reiki be offered for your highest healing good, and that if you do not wish to receive it, I respect your desire." This enlists his support, shifts focus from your need to his, and releases your focus on "fixing" the issue.
Next I would tell him the steps that you intend to take. Imagine yourself going through the steps in your mind, with your hands being still--this will give your dog information about what to expect and how he could cooperate.
It sounds like you were trained to do Reiki hand positions above the body rather than making contact as I do. If that is so I would suggest placing your hands directly on your dog since he will understand that better. However, it is not necessary to keep both hands still during a session for it to be effective. One hand can stay in the intended hand position while the other is involved with the expected petting.
I found your Reiki terminology for the symbol a bit confusing since I do not refer to any of the Level 2 symbols as the master symbol--what I call the Master symbol is not taught until Reiki Master Teacher level.
I think perhaps you might be referring to the first symbol, the Cho, which I call the workhorse symbol since it is used in every hand position from Reiki Level 2 on to activate the energy. In working with all species (people included) I find it beneficial to use the Sei, the emotional-spiritual symbol, in combination with the Cho for hand positions other than the emotional-spiritual one.
And you can also include your recent training in distance healing by sending Reiki to the situation (which is where you use all three symbols). By doing so you open up to the possibility of receiving support and/or insights that might further assist with the issue. Reiki is a wonderful healing modality, but it is not the answer to everything--no one approach is.
Which brings me to the issue of your dog's itchiness.
Unfortunately skin problems are becoming more common for dogs and cats. Evidenced by excessive scratching or chewing or licking of certain areas such as paws, itchiness can be the result of a variety of challenges, but diet is the most common.
I believe that the best approach to healing is a holistic one, and that means incorporating support on all levels: mental, emotional, spiritual and physical. Alleviating Your Pet's Itchy Skin can help you identify the cause and take steps to eliminate it. In the meantime Reiki can assist in reducing discomfort, promoting detoxification, and accelerating the healing process.
Best wishes to you and your canine family. Enjoy exploring and expanding your new Reiki skills!
Rose De Dan,
Animal Reiki Shaman
Disclaimer: Rose De Dan shares insights derived from spirit and through animal communication. Any advice she offers is not meant as a substitute for veterinary care.
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