In my practices as both a Reiki Practitioner and Yoga teacher, I often see the same pattern present in the lives of the people, who come across my path. Tension, anxiety and stress are endemic to our modern way of living, yes; but so is the conviction that healing, health and wellbeing can be sought, and found, outside of yourself.
Yoga is a comprehensive holistic system, pointing us in the direction of the correct-use-ness of our body, mind and spirit. Reiki is a holistic therapy, which aids in manifesting our best selves. The touch points of the two, albeit very different in nature, have been apparent to me for a while now. Another thing, which has also become obvious to me, is that neither can ever take root in one’s life, if the correct intention is not present. If we really want to heal, to be healthy, to have a balanced physical body, mental, emotional healthy and a healthy nervous system – there is only one condition, one choice to be made. We need to work with ourselves, on ourselves, every day – to accept responsibility for ourselves. Part of the work that we might face might bring us down some unpleasant realities about who we are. There is nothing fatal about this; change is the most natural process in life. But if we choose not to investigate the dark corners of ourselves and bravely face the challenges, then we chose to give up responsibility for our own life and well-being. This has been my experience.
As a Yoga teacher, I can guide people to a practice. I can tailor the most wholesome and nurturing class, but unless the effects of the practice are allowed to take root, then the class will remain only a physical movement. I can navigate your body into Shava Asana and talk you through a most peaceful relaxation. If you choose to afterward let stress and tension take a hold of the rational mind, then the fruits of the practice remain confined to those 10-15 mins on your mat. But then again, if you make the conscious choice to become the knowing captain of your mind and experience; if you take the lessons learned in class and apply them to your days, then the Yoga practice extends beyond the class – it becomes a way of life. As a teacher of Yoga that is my greatest desire, but it is your choice.
As a Reiki Healer I observe a similar pattern. Sometimes, against my best intention, I am incapable to help a client, because they are not ready to allow for that help to reach them. Reiki Therapy, like Yoga, can be incredibly nurturing and life-altering, but only if the correct intention is present.
No one can really do the work for us. And while self-healing and sustained wellbeing might seem like a struggle to some, it need not be a difficult journey. A first step in the right direction is re-framing your mind to focus on the positives. It might be tricky; you might have to do it dozens of times a day – but every time a negative and draining thought crosses your mind you need to let it go! Don’t ponder on the negative, don’t let it cloud your days. While it might be difficult to eradicate it from the get-go (or ever), you can teach the mind the cultivate happy, healthy states of being. You can make that choice and I am will be more than honoured to be your guide on the way!
In Love and Yoga,
Kati
