[Responses to Reiki training differ from person to person. The process and experiences are very individual, reflecting the need of the individual concerned. Many find that the period following, particularly, the Reiki 1 training course is a time when they are faced with things that have to be addressed and sorted out. For those affected in this way, this period of adjustment is extremely important and forms the basis for future ongoing development of both skill and understanding. For a small number this process can be quite unpleasant. The following letter is an example of this. This letter is published with consent, and complete except for the removal of some 'personal details and asides' not pertinent to its use on this website.
Joe]

Dear Joe,

First as I was set to do some ironing, I felt an urge to explain to you my experiences both during and after my Reiki 1 training. Let the ironing pile up, this is more important! That's an admission in itself, as to the change in my approach to life - a few months ago I would have done the ironing and probably never got around to writing this.

So what did I experience during training, well besides feeling calm, peaceful, relaxed, etc, I primarily felt an overwhelming need to change my thought processes which over the years have deteriorated. There was a great need to 'change' as somewhere 'along the line' I had lost myself and I knew I had to regain my former self. Circumstances and events in my life have played a part, but even so I felt I hadn't learned anything from them, I hadn't grown and developed personally. The Reiki training you gave me showed me the way and most importantly confirmed I was heading in he right direction.

Having heard two versions of Dr. Usui's life and how he found Reiki, I concluded that the version ...(Memorial of Usui Sensei's Virtue from Reiki Fire by F, Petter)... is the most believable. I also think, however, that the Gift could have been given by God as Dr. Usui devoted his life to helping others and this was a channel of God's love, through which he could help (heal) those who came to him. (Seek and you shall find).

With regard to the first three attunements I recall feeling 'different', cosy, safe, peaceful, yet in a kind of limbo. Attunement four seemed to have the most impact. I saw black 'shadows' and then suddenly a white light, as if the sky was black and then all of a sudden the blackness was replaced by white, shiny (silvery perhaps) clouds. The scene changed from darkness to light (whiteness). It was absolutely wonderful.

During the 'self healing' process, I felt such relief, hence the tears. This was such a surprise in particular as it came so suddenly. I realise now that this was the start of the healing process.

Since the training, I have tried to work on myself as much as possible. On a number of occasions I have fallen asleep during the process and have awoken feeling sick, with either headache or aching limbs. During each session I have recalled events from my past, going back to childhood days, all of which haven't been pleasant but I have addressed these issues. I have been surprised at these past events I have thought about, as I thought these were 'buried' long ago. Obviously, they are still floating around in my sub-conscious mind. They are no longer relevant [now].

Reiki and your teachings have shown me, given me, opened up for me a better perspective on my own life. This is just the start – I feel I have a long way to go but am heading in the right direction. I feel very privileged to have received training. I know that I have so much more to learn and I want to learn.

Finally, about your garden - I still feel it has a 'magical' quality. By this I mean that it is enchanting and peaceful, yet alive. My feelings of your garden simply sums up how I felt during the training weekend. I know you will understand.

Fondest regards to you both,