Reiki

Philosophy and Purpose of the Let Animals Lead ® Method

 Within this method, animals are regarded as equal partners in the Reiki relationship. All animals, no matter how tiny or unique, are approached with humility and respect as spiritual teachers in life and healing. This method also acknowledges that animals, like humans, possess physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects, to which Reiki can bring profound healing transformation. We strive to dedicate ourselves to the virtues of humility, integrity, compassion and gratitude in our practice. The Let Animals Lead® method acknowledges that animals should be afforded the same consideration in comfort and preferences during Reiki sessions as human beings. This means that since animals cannot verbally express their consent and comfort before/during/after the session, practitioners must take a step back, listen, observe and (perhaps most importantly) allow animals to lead all areas of the treatment process. We also acknowledge that other species relate to human hands and physical touch differently than we do, and this requires sensitivity and a modified approach. This is why we only use physical touch when it is animal-initiated. Both the development of listening skills as well as trust in allowing animals to lead in all aspects of sessions are central to a successful Animal Reiki connection. This is why the main practices of this method are meditation, mindful presence and holding space. This is in stark contrast to a Reiki treatment for humans, where the Reiki practitioner learns a specific treatment protocol and leads the session with a hands-on/off or hands-centered/movement based approach. Many lineages of Reiki don't teach meditation at all, and yet their teachings are highly successful with humans. This underlines the important differences in approach when connecting with other species. Practitioners and teachers of the Let Animals Lead® method realize that connecting with animals through Reiki meditation is transformational to the human/animal relationship on this planet by awakening the compassion in our hearts. Service to animals in the community is a strong priority. Practitioners and teachers of the Let Animals Lead® method feel an inner calling to be actively involved in promoting kindness to animals: for our animal family and friends, for shelter and sanctuary animals, and even for larger issues facing animals in the world. One of the primary goals of our practice is to live kinder, happier lives, especially in our relationship with other species. Practitioners and teachers in the Let Animals Lead¨®method should be proud to join the ranks of other professions engaged in promoting animal welfare and in easing the suffering of animal species of all kinds. Some animal groups help animals through legislation, or medical care, rescue and rehabilitation or lifestyle/dietary changes. We do so through the sharing of Reiki meditation in ways that show the upmost respect and honoring of all species.