The question of whether or not to expose children to Reiki is an interesting one. Many Reiki practioners are open and eager to give Reiki treatments to children and some believe that young children can receive the Reiki initiations. Others take a more conservative approach, refusing to initiate anyone under a certain age, say 18 for example, to the Reiki system. Some Reiki Masters are even more stringent, saying young children should not be treated with Reiki, much less receive initiation.

The issue is more complex than it might seem on the surface.

When considering the issue at question, I think it is imperative to first make a vital distinction. Reiki can refer to two separate but related entities. First, Reiki is a word translated most often as "universal energy." If this is indeed an accurate translation, then the question of whether to expose children to Reiki is moot. If the Reiki energy is universal energy, then people are exposed to Reiki regardless of their age. Universal energy is just that universal. Everyone is exposed.

Second, Reiki also refers to a particular system of healing developed by Mikao Usui. The Reiki system has evolved over the years and continues to grow in both popularity and variety. In this sense, only people who have taken formal Reiki training or received Reiki treatment have been exposed.

In the one case, we are talking about exposure to an energy; in another case, we are talking about exposure to a formalized system of practice. Granted, the Reiki system utilizes universal Reiki energy, but it is a systematized mode of practice and utilization.
As stated earlier, there is no need to discuss whether or not children should be exposed to the energy. They are exposed if they are on the planet.

As to exposure to the system, I believe that caution should be taken. There is a wide spread belief within the Reiki community that Reiki energy is not harmful and always works toward the greatest good. If this is in fact true, giving Reiki to children can only be to their benefit. I suspect most Reiki Masters would agree with this.

However, giving Reiki initiation is another matter entirely. The Reiki initiation process requires placing certain symbols into a person's energy body and, according to Reiki theory, these symbols are there for life. Once initiated, always initiated.

For this reason, I don't think children should be initiated into the system of Reiki without their conscious consent. Having something placed in your energy body, especially something permanent, is a big decision and not one to be taken lightly. I don't believe very young children are capable of making such a decision, no matter how advanced they might be.

In conclusion, I feel giving Reiki treatments to children can be a positive experience and further, it exposes young people to a universal energy that works in their best interest. This, in turn, may open doors for further education in metaphysical matters for children.
On the other hand, I strongly resist the notion that Reiki initiation is good for a child. It may be or it may not be; only the child can decide. And, for just that reason, initiation before the age of 18 should be avoided.

I am a Third Degree Reiki Master and have many years experience working with this energy and this system. However, I am not infallible and I can only express my views on this complex issue. I am sure others may disagree, as is there privilege.

Learn more about this author, Dwight Turner.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about The benefits of Reiki for children?
We want to hear your view. Write now!