How to Draw the Reiki Power Symbol Cho Ku Rei

Some people, especially Reiki novices, wonder if the power symbol is correctly drawn with the spiral running clockwise or counterclockwise.

In reality, there is no right or wrong way to draw the Reiki power symbol known as the Cho Ku Rei, because either direction is correct, depending on the intended use. It can be drawn clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on the intent and the particular nature of the individual. 

Cho Ku Rei is a symbol that is intended to increase or expand energy. For most people, drawing the Cho Ku Rei clockwise will create an expansion sensation. Drawing it counterclockwise will have the opposite effect for most people—energy will feel reduced or there will be a sensation of energy deflating. This is not a universal result, however, since for a few people the counterclockwise direction will feel more powerful than the clockwise spiral. 

The Importance of Symbols in Reiki Practice

A number of symbols are used in the practice of Reiki—the alternative healing art that originated in Japan nearly 100 years ago. Of the five most prominent symbols, perhaps the most important is Cho Ku Rei—the power symbol. As with all symbols, practitioners who draw the Cho Ku Rei are advised to focus on what the practice symbolizes. It is not the symbol itself that carries the ability to change a person, but the meditative focus that comes to bear when one draws the power symbol.

Using the Power Symbol

In practice, you can experiment with drawing the symbol both ways and pay attention to how it feels to you. Imagine that the symbol is a coiled spring. When you draw it clockwise does it feel like the coil is expanding or retracting? Then draw it counterclockwise to see if you get the opposite sensation.

After you have established which direction seems to create power and which direction decreases it, you can use it accordingly. For example, you can apply the "increase power" drawing of this symbol whenever you wish to magnify or attract some element or condition in your life. You can apply the "decrease power" drawing when you want to reduce or eliminate some condition or object.

Disclaimer: The information contained on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen.