Reiki Self-Practice — Hand Positions

Usui Shiki Ryoho · self-treatment sequence · Takata lineage
How to practice: sit or lie down, hands clean. Move through the positions in order, resting both palms on (or just above) each area, fingers together. Hold 3–5 minutes per position; linger wherever you feel heat, tingle, or a gentle pull (byosen). A full self-treatment runs 45–60 minutes. Daily self-treatment is the backbone of the whole practice.

The sequence

  1. Sit or lie comfortably. Wash your hands and shake them out.
  2. Bring your hands to the crown, then move slowly down through the head positions.
  3. Continue down the front of the body, then the back (as far as you can reach), then the legs and feet.
  4. Hold each position 3–5 minutes, or longer where you feel drawn.
  5. Where you feel heat, tingle, or a pull — let your hands linger. That is the energy doing the work.
  6. Close with hands over the heart, silently repeating the Five Precepts.
  7. Drink water and rest a few minutes before standing.

Good to know

Byosen scanning

Move slowly and let your hands tell you where to stay. Sensitivity to heat, density, or pull develops with daily practice — it is not something you can read about.

The Five Precepts

Just for today: do not anger, do not worry, be grateful, do your work honestly, be kind to others. Said as an orientation, not a rule.

Scope & safety

Reiki supports relaxation and wellbeing. It does not diagnose or treat illness and is complementary to — never a substitute for — medical or psychological care.

No cert needed

Self-practice begins at Level 1. You don't need a client, a room, or a certificate to start today. Teachers gauge readiness by daily self-treatment, not by hours in class.