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Writer's pictureHeather Marshall

Common Reiki Symobls & Their Respective Meanings

Updated: Jul 13, 2023

This article is designed for everyone - the experienced Reiki practitioner, the newcomer to this energy healing path, or the intrigued reader who is keen to understand more about the functioning of Reiki.

Welcome to a remarkable exploration of the mystic realm of Reiki, an ancient energy healing technique, rich with symbols that serve as profound tools for healing and transformation. These symbols, unique in vibration and purpose, are integral to the practice, acting as energetic bridges to higher consciousness and well-being. In this illuminating post, we will journey through the key symbols used in Reiki, examining their origins, uses, and the deep meanings they embody.


Understanding Reiki Symbols


Reiki symbols are essentially Sanskrit-derived Japanese forms that help focus and amplify the universal life force energy that Reiki is all about. They're the keys that open the doors to higher levels of awareness and manifestation. These symbols are not merely figments of aesthetic admiration but are powerful conduits that facilitate the flow of healing energy, each carrying a specific meaning and purpose.


Each Reiki symbol is a unique combination of sacred shapes and lines and represents specific energetic frequencies. These symbols help direct the practitioner's intent, becoming focal points for channeling the healing energy and serving as triggers for the subconscious mind.


Common Reiki Symbols and Their Meanings



Cho Ku Rei (Power Symbol): Cho Ku Rei, often referred to as the Power Symbol, enhances the practitioner's ability to access Reiki energy. It's typically used at the beginning of a healing session, to boost the energy flow and intensify healing. The symbol signifies power and protection, allowing practitioners to focus energy into specific areas of the body or situation.



Sei Hei Ki (Emotional Healing Symbol): The Sei Hei Ki symbol is often associated with purification, cleansing, and emotional healing. It's used to aid in the healing of the emotional and mental aspects of our being, helping to balance the right and left brain. This symbol is instrumental in healing past traumas and relieving anxiety or depression.




Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen (Distance Healing Symbol): This symbol transcends time and space, allowing practitioners to send healing energy across long distances. It's often used when providing distance Reiki healing sessions. The Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen symbol signifies connection, making it possible to heal past traumas or future worries, as well as issues in the present.




Dai Ko Myo (Master Symbol): The Master Symbol, Dai Ko Myo, represents enlightenment and the opening of the spiritual consciousness. It's the most powerful symbol and is only used by Reiki Masters. This symbol is believed to work on the soul level, healing deep-rooted spiritual traumas and promoting self-awareness and self-love.



The Thing About Using Reiki Symbols Properly..


The use of Reiki symbols does not involve complex procedures. It's about intention and connection. Once attuned to the Reiki energy and symbols by a Reiki Master, you can start using them in your healing practice.


Before starting a session, you can draw the symbols with your fingers or visualize them in your mind, stating their names either aloud or silently. Then, place your hands on or above the body and allow the energy to flow.


For instance, you might use Cho Ku Rei to increase the healing power at the start of a session or to cleanse a room. You could use Sei Hei Ki when emotional or mental healing is required. Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen would be used when sending Reiki across a distance or healing past traumas. Dai Ko Myo, the master symbol, is typically used during attunements and for spiritual healing.


Remember, the power of the symbols comes not from the symbols themselves but through the intent and focus of the practitioner.


Still Interested? Are you Still Reading?


Well then let's dive deeper into a few more Reiki symbols that are utilized less commonly but still hold significant value in certain practices.


  1. Raku (Fire Serpent): The Raku symbol, also known as the "Fire Serpent", is typically used during the final stage of attunement, grounding the student after the process. The symbol starts from the heavens and comes down to the ground, aiding in the grounding process. It helps in enhancing the connection between the physical body and the Earth, fostering a sense of safety and stability.

  2. Zonar: This symbol represents healing for karma and traumatic experiences. The design of Zonar includes an infinity symbol, which signifies eternity and interconnectedness. The repetitive loops of the infinity symbol in Zonar denote going back in time and healing past-life traumas that might be affecting the present life.

  3. Halu: The Halu symbol is more commonly used in Karuna Reiki®, a modern branch of the traditional Reiki. It is a deeper and more powerful version of the Zonar symbol and it is used for deep healing and self-love. Halu is known for restoring balance and promoting self-love and empowerment.

  4. Gnosa: This symbol helps in connecting better with higher self. Gnosa helps to bridge the gap between the heart's desire and the mind's practicality. It aids in increasing understanding and improving communication, leading to a more harmonious relationship with oneself and others.

  5. Iava: Also a part of the Karuna Reiki® system, the Iava symbol addresses the issues related to the root causes of imbalance and discontentment. It brings to surface the deeply embedded patterns and helps in recognizing them, in order to facilitate healing.

These symbols, while less commonly used in traditional Usui Reiki, still carry profound meanings and can offer additional tools for healing and spiritual growth. It's important to remember that the symbols alone do not hold the power, but rather it is the intention and focus of the practitioner that unlocks their potential. Always approach the usage of these symbols with respect and positive intent.


Reiki symbols offer practitioners a range of tools to facilitate healing, personal growth, and spiritual connection. They serve as bridges, guiding energy to where it is needed and representing key aspects of life and healing. As we've seen, understanding and utilizing these symbols can enrich your Reiki practice and deepen the healing experience. However, remember that these symbols are sacred and should be treated with respect. In Reiki, as in life, intention matters. When you use these symbols with positive intent and a pure heart, you tap into the universal life force energy, promoting healing, harmony, and wholeness.


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