Reiki Level 1, Level 2 and Master: What Each Level Means

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If you have started looking into Reiki training, you have probably noticed that courses are split into levels. It can be confusing at first, so here is a clear explanation of what each level is, what it opens, and where to begin.

Reiki Level 1 (Shoden): The Beginning

Shoden means "first teachings." Level 1 is where every Reiki practitioner begins, no matter their background. In Level 1 you receive your first attunement, which opens your channel to Reiki, and you learn the foundations:

• What Reiki is and where it comes from
• The five Reiki principles
• Ki, the energy body, and the seven main chakras
• The hand positions for treating yourself and others
• How to give a full session

Level 1 is traditionally the level of self-healing, and of healing the people around you: your partner, your children, your friends, your animals. Many people take Level 1 purely for their own healing and never go further, and that is a complete and worthwhile reason to learn.

Reiki Level 2 (Okuden): Deepening the Practice

Okuden means "inner teachings." In Level 2 you receive a second attunement and learn the traditional Reiki symbols, including the symbol used for distance healing. This is the level where you learn to send Reiki across distance and time, and it is where most practitioners begin offering sessions to clients.

Reiki Master (Shinpiden): Mastery and Teaching

Shinpiden means "mystery teachings." The Master level deepens your own connection to Reiki and, in most lineages, prepares you to teach Reiki and attune students yourself. It is usually taken after a period of practice at Level 2, once Reiki has become part of your daily life.

Why Everyone Starts With Level 1

It can be tempting to want to skip ahead, but each level builds on the one before it. Level 1 is where you build your relationship with Reiki through daily self-practice. The attunements are also given in order, so Level 1 is always the first step.

If you have been attuned to Level 1 before, perhaps in a course that moved too quickly, it is also completely fine to take Level 1 again. A second Level 1 attunement does no harm, and many people find it strengthens their connection.

Common Questions

Can I skip Reiki Level 1 and go straight to Level 2?

No. Each Reiki level builds on the one before it, and the attunements are given in order. Level 1 is always the first step.

Can I practice Reiki on clients after Level 1?

Level 1 is traditionally the level for healing yourself and the people close to you. Level 2 is where most practitioners begin working with clients.

How long should I wait between Reiki levels?

Many teachers recommend practicing for at least the 21 day integration period after an attunement, and often a few months, so Reiki becomes part of your daily life before you move to the next level.