Once an attunement has taken place in a Level I Reiki class, the next step is typically for the instructor to demonstrate hand positions for self-treatment and have students practice on themselves. Most teachers emphasize the importance of self-healing and encourage students to treat themselves daily.

Self-healing should be a constant goal for all of us and a diligent practice. The more "whole" we become, the easier it is to be a clear channel for the flow of Reiki. But s,elf-healing is not a destination, but a life-long process. If we waited until we were "whole" to give Reiki to others, we might never treat another person. (And miss out on the wonderful healing we receive when we give treatments!)

As we proceed on our own healing journeys, how do we ensure that our state of incomplete healing doesn't interfere with the treatment we give another person?

Among the steps I take: 

• Intention. Holding the intention of being a completely clear channel for Reiki. During my prayer prior to a treatment, I ask that nothing in me impede the flow of Reiki through me.
• Setting aside ego. Early in my practice I did this by imagining my ego as a five-year-old. I would visualize her leaving my body, ask her to sit in a chair in the treatment room, mentally give her a stuffed animal and a blanket, and suggest that she keep me company. Then I would ask that the Light of Divine Love fill my body, the client's body, and the room. I no longer feel the need for the image, but continue to fill the space, the client, and me with Light.
• Detaching from outcome. It is important to remind ourselves that we are responsible for giving the best treatment we can, but we are not responsible for the outcome, nor should we try to dictate it. I hold the intention that the client has stated (e.g. to be relieved of back pain, to release fear, etc.) as I proceed with the treatment, but the healing that takes place is between the recipient and their Higher Power, whatever they understand that to be. This is especially important, and often more difficult to do, when treating a family member or close friend. *   
• Trust Reiki to bring about the highest possible outcome.  

*Attachment to outcome can put us at risk for taking on energy from the recipient. For more about this, see Chapter 8, Keeping Your Energy Clean, in my book.