A year after I moved to Ottawa, while pregnant with my first son, I decided that I wanted to volunteer at a local drop-in women's shelter giving Reiki treatments. Prior to that, I had been practicing Reiki out of a yoga studio in downtown Toronto and I really missed it. The volunteer coordinator suggested that I help out at a permanent residence for women in need of continuous care and support. She felt this would be a safer, calmer place than the drop-in shelter. And so my journey as a Reiki volunteer began.
Even a few minutes of Reiki can help calm a person and restore their sense of wellbeing. “What the heck is Reiki?” you might ask, as many do. Reiki, pronounced RAYKEY, is a practice that helps to restore balance to one’s system by engaging the body's self-healing mechanisms. A Reiki treatment, which is usually facilitated through light touch on or just above the body, typically brings rapid stress reduction and relief from pain and anxiety. The recipient remains fully clothed and can either be seated or lying down. Having experienced this feeling myself through treatments, I was well aware of the benefits and wanted to share the experience with others. It is so rewarding to help bring more ease, calm, focus and peace of mind to people.
The rewards of volunteering far surpassed my expectations. I became friends with women of all ages and backgrounds. Some shared stories of their trials and tribulations, some preferred to just quietly receive Reiki, and others just curiously looked on. After an evening of volunteering I would happily return home to my role as a stay-at-home mom, feeling like I made a meaningful connection, not only to the world outside, but also to the sacred world inside. Reiki assists one to open a channel to the divine – it inspires and uplifts. I have gained a greater sense of purpose from serving others in the community as well as my family. Connecting with women through Reiki has nourished my spirit. I get to do something I love and receive trust and friendship in return.
Recently, I was invited to offer Reiki at a new permanent residence, built in 2011. For the first time ever, many of the support staff, including nurses and social workers, have come to try Reiki. Many have reported feeling calmer and more peaceful after a session. It only makes sense that caregivers also need to take care of themselves. Offering Reiki in the workplace can help ease stress and tension, improve concentration and boost morale. When you feel good, that feeling spreads to others!
As a volunteer, I have made new friends, heard many stories and learned more about myself and the world. By touching the lives I others, I have gained a valuable sense of confidence and contribution. Serving in this way has deepened my connection with Reiki and the community I live in.
Curious about how Reiki can bring more ease and energy into your life?
[This article was originally published in Tone Magazine - January, 2014]