28 Reiki Symbols And How To Choose The Right One For Your Practice

Reiki symbols are the keys that open doors to certain Universal Life Force Energy manifestations. They are the catalysts that allow you to enhance your Reiki practice, leading to harmonious spiritual development.

Among their various uses, Reiki symbols have the potential to channel the universal energy towards specific purposes that can change our lives for the better.

Tapping into their energy structure and learning how to use the Reiki symbols will help you acknowledge the presence of the many untouchable spiritual layers that exist beyond the physical world.

There are many types of Reiki, and each has multiple symbols. Usui Reiki Ryoho, Karuna Reiki, and Shamballa Reiki are just a few that shape the Reiki universe.

This article gathers the most important Reiki symbols from these 3 systems in one place. Its role is to help you better understand each one and how to use them in your Reiki self-treatment and practice on others.

What To Expect From This Article

Symbols are present in almost every culture, religion, or energy healing practice. They can be simple writings or take complex shapes. A symbol might be an iconic person and, sometimes, communicate a higher spiritual meaning.

Throughout history, they influenced the way we perceive the world, and many people still use them as guides in their daily lives.

When it comes to Reiki, it’s essential to know that one symbol is never better than others. Instead, each has a specific role, and its power lies in how we use it.

Apart from the traditional Usui Reiki Symbols, many other symbols might be helpful in the Reiki practice.

This mix can become confusing, and I’ve seen it happen more times than I can count.

That’s why this article gathers all the main Usui Reiki symbols as well as the ones in Karuna and Shamballa Reiki. It’s a way to better understand how they work and how to use them.

We’ll also cover a few non-traditional Reiki symbols to see how they fit in different contexts.

It’s a journey that will give many insights and, hopefully, add value to what you already know.

Furthermore, I’ll go beyond the standard path and show you what’s available by providing context and clarifying anything unclear.

NOTE: The system of Reiki symbols is a powerful tool and an extremely valuable one. You receive access to each symbol’s true potential through the attunement process assigned to each Reiki level.

Meanwhile, it’s a good idea to have basic knowledge about them and become aware of their applications in anticipation of your next attunement.

What Are Reiki Symbols And What’s Their Meaning

Four things to note before we move forward:

1 – All Reiki symbols are beneficial and helpful. There is no symbol superior to another, and choosing the right one depends on your end goal. They have different vibrations, and, as a result, you may utilize them for various purposes.

2 – Reiki symbols don’t necessarily make you a better practitioner. They just direct the universal energy in a more focused way and help you tap into a higher vibration. Still, using the Reiki hand positions exclusively can often be enough to find the results you’re looking for. That’s why you should never disregard this technique.

3 – Reiki symbols are fascinating, and I understand why they attract so much interest. Just be careful not to make them the core of your practice. Instead, consider using them only as a boost for raising your awareness and consciousness towards your spiritual development. The real work that you need to undertake is with your inner self.

4 – Traditional Reiki symbols are split into two main groups:

• A Japanese Kanji sequence of words and meanings forms a coherent picture of thought, practice, or function.
• A form of expressing an ideology that has the direct purpose of healing a certain part (emotional, mental, metaphysical) of your life and/or your body.

How Do Reiki Symbols Work

Reiki symbols serve as keys to access various forms of energy and even entities at the energetic and spiritual levels. These, in turn, symbolize different expressions of the universal life force energy that flows and surrounds us.

Simply put, each Reiki symbol connects to a certain healing vibration. As a result, it increases the energy level of your body, mind, and spirit while healing you from within.

We are all channels through which the universal life force energy flows. This can manifest efficiently through symbols and intention.

Therefore, the purpose is to raise your vibration and discover the root of your emotional and energetic imbalances. Then you can start healing by opening the main energy channels and centers.

Types Of Reiki Symbols

Reiki symbols belong to different levels and systems, representing a spiritual threshold that one must pass to grow from a spiritual perspective. This can manifest as a state of healing, awareness, or accessing higher levels of consciousness. Thus, the symbols can differ in their vibration and use.

There are Reiki symbols for:

• concentrating the energy and power into a certain area;
• harmonizing and balancing;
• mental and emotional healing;
• opening a high-vibrational dimension to a certain place or space;
• healing and opening emotional and communication blockages;
• surrounding and filling yourself with pure energy;
• connecting to certain entities such as angels/archangels;
• balancing your energy fields and energy centers (chakras);
• aligning your chakras;
• grounding;
• abundance;
• …and more;

How To Properly Draw And Use Reiki Symbols

You can activate the Reiki symbols by:

Drawing

Put your index and middle fingers together with your thumb and draw the symbol(s) in front of you, on your chakras, palms, or wherever you feel guided to place them. These 3 fingers can channel the most energy, and their gathering has the purpose of concentrating it into one point;

You can also use your hand or one finger while pronouncing (even in silence) the symbol’s name. Do this 3 times while drawing it to enhance its activation power;

Visualization

After you become more accustomed to each symbol, you can simply visualize them using intention;

First, you should have a clear image of that symbol and what it does to benefit from its full potential;

Chanting/Pronouncing Its Name

Chanting represents the vocal and physical presence of a symbol;

Pronounce its name three times to bring it into the physical world. You may combine chanting with any other method;

NOTE(1): Don’t overcomplicate this step. The symbol doesn’t have to look exactly as it does on paper. Having a clear image in your mind and the right intention is enough. This will allow the universal energy to work towards your goal.

NOTE(2): Do not use any of the Reiki symbols on others without their consent.

Using Reiki On Infections

Be aware that Reiki promotes life, so it’s better to avoid using it on infections because it can amplify it and cause further discomfort.

After gaining more experience and reaching a higher vibration level, you can start working on infections. Always have the intention to eradicate harmful elements like bacteria or viruses. Before considering this method, I would also recommend having at least the Usui Reiki level 2 attunement.

Using Reiki On Animals/Pets

Hands-on Reiki on animals can be very beneficial. Regardless of your Reiki level, you can start by sitting or standing in front of the animal, placing your hands on its body, and sending Reiki.

If you are a level 2 practitioner and above, you can use Reiki symbols to enhance the treatment. Still, don’t draw them directly on their body. You may try this if they are your pet. Otherwise, activate the symbols in your palms and then start the session.

Either way, don’t force them to stay and receive the Reiki. Instead, try again later but always respect their behavior.

Does it matter if animals have souls or not?

This popular debate shouldn’t prevent Reiki practitioners from assisting whoever is in need. At a very basic level, think about how they act with those who care for them. Reiki can take us one step closer to understanding their needs and helping them more holistically.

Activate your palms and add the Reiki symbols you have access to. Then place your hands where your intuition guides you and send energy for their greater good and emotional balance. Whenever an animal feels like it has received enough energy, it will leave or fall asleep.

Keep in mind that they cannot speak out their pains or understand what we are doing. That’s why it’s crucial to rely even more on intention and intuition in this case.

The Most Important Reiki Symbols

Generally speaking, all Reiki symbols are important.

However, I should emphasize that each practitioner must first master the foundations of Reiki: the Usui Reiki Ryoho system. This is where everything starts, and without internalizing this vibration, one cannot move forward.

The Karuna Reiki symbols follow, which have a higher vibration and, therefore, a greater potential of raising your spiritual consciousness. These allow you to connect to certain high-vibrational entities like angels and archangels. You can use them for energetic protection, accessing specific spiritual elements, and even contributing to the healing of the whole Planet.

The next level of spiritual awareness is the Shamballa Reiki system. The concepts, symbols, and meditations included here are quite unique because they focus on healing the deep levels of your physical and emotional body. These range from the DNA level all the way up to enhancing your connection to the divine consciousness.

Reiki symbols are important because each has a unique vibration and meaning that can complement others and enhance different techniques. But, in the end, it all depends on us and how we decide to put them into practice.

• • •

Understanding how the universal life force energy flows and what it does in its path can offer significant insights that lead to a more efficient practice.

Sometimes it’s not a ‘secret’ symbol you’re looking for but rather a clearer view of how to apply the fundamentals.

That’s where the Reiki Refresher Course comes into play. Whether you’re looking to bring Reiki back into your life or enrich your knowledge through a different perspective, this course will support your efforts by focusing only on the essential elements.

Usui Reiki Symbols

Usui Reiki Symbols represent the fundamentals that take you through the phases of connecting with yourself. With this connection, you begin to know, accept and love yourself.

As an analogy, Usui Reiki is not about placing a patch over a wound. Instead, it’s about cleaning the wound by removing the bacteria and allowing it to heal. It’s also a way to position yourself in situations that prevent future injuries.

That’s why Usui Reiki is the foundation of the Reiki practice. Mastering this system is the first step to a higher state of awareness and consciousness. It’s the knowledge that enables practitioners to navigate with grace and build other skills.

Cho Ku Rei – The Power Symbol

Reiki level 1 is where you receive access to the universal life force energy. You can start using hand positions and learn more about yourself through Reiki.

When talking about symbols, we jump directly to level 2.

Cho Ku Rei is the first Reiki symbol you receive access to through this second attunement.

Also known as the “Power Symbol,” Cho Ku Rei translates as: “Placing all the power of the Universe here, now.” It acts as a light switch before starting self-treatment or treatment on others.

• Activate Cho Ku Rei on your palms and each of the primary and/or secondary chakras. This will promote a better flow of universal energy and, therefore, gradually cleanse and open your energy centers;
• Draw it on the front side of your body and visualize it on the backside. This will add an extra layer of protection, keeping away unwanted energies;
• Add Cho Ku Rei over a painful area, and keep your activated palms there for about 10 minutes;
• When you place this Reiki symbol between you and another person or even an animal, it creates an energy barrier that serves as a filter. This will prevent any form of negative thoughts or intentions from affecting you;
• To bring harmony to a space you work or live in, activate it on each wall, corner, ceiling, floor, and center of the room. Its vibration will help dissipate any negative energy and create a peaceful mood;

Cho Ku Rei, in general, helps the energy to flow smoothly by removing energy blockages from your body. It also purifies, activates, and protects any structure you activate it on.

That’s why it’s such a versatile symbol as you may use it to cleanse food and beverages, crystals, or build energy shields.

Read the in-depth article on Cho Ku Rei here >>

Sei He Ki – The Mental And Emotional Reiki Healing Symbol

Sei He Ki is the second symbol you learn at Reiki level 2 and represents mental-emotional healing, harmony, and balance.

Similar to Cho Ku Rei, you can activate it on your palms and chakras to enhance the energy flow and cleansing potential.

• Sei He Ki aids in developing a more direct connection with your divine consciousness, allowing you to get to the heart of emotional issues. The majority of the time, these are concealed in your subconscious mind. From here, you may employ the vibration of this symbol for therapeutic purposes;
• As a symbol for harmony, you may use it in the center of a conflict (never on the people) to help diffuse the tension. It will bring peace and calm to those involved, allowing everyone to enjoy a more constructive day;
• You can use Sei He Ki to help cure addictions such as smoking or drinking and dissolve negative induced thoughts. Its energy will work with your emotional and mental sides with time, informing you about the root cause;

Sei He Ki is like opening a window and allowing fresh air to enter. It releases trapped negative energies while inviting positive vibrations in. It’s the perfect symbol to use when you feel overwhelmed and stressed, as it will help you restore balance and peace. Remember to use it with intention and focus, visualizing the desired outcome.

More about Sei He Ki in this article >>

Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen – The Reiki Distance Healing Symbol

Also known as the Reiki distance healing symbol, Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen is the third one you learn in the Usui Reiki system.

It translates as:

“Without past, present or future.”

“The Divinity in me contacts the Divinity in you.”

Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen enables you to transfer the universal life force energy through time and space and help others who you can’t assist in person. This also means that you can send energy to your past, present, or future.

When sending energy to your past, you can help heal unfortunate events that still influence your present. But only do so once in a while for about 10 minutes to avoid disrupting this connection.

The Cho Ku Rei + Sei He Ki + Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen Reiki symbols sequence is ideal for creating a spiritual bridge to transfer the universal energy. Next, visualize how it’s flowing through your palms and travels to the event or person you are sending it to.

Distance healing is a powerful way to send Reiki energy to someone, even if they are sitting next to you. By adding Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen to your normal healing session, you can help make the patient feel more comfortable and open up their energetic structure to receive the most benefit from the Reiki treatment.

It’s also important to remember that you are also healing your own energetic structure when you send Reiki energy to someone. This is a great way to stay balanced and connected to the universal life force energy.

Sending Reiki Distance Healing To Yourself – past, present, or future

Sending healing energy for your future will help settle all prospect events for your greater good–even if the outcome is sometimes different than you would expect. The events that should happen for your greater good will be put in motion, and you’ll be able to enjoy a sense of peace and security knowing that you’re on the right path.

You do this with the Cho Ku Rei + Sei He Ki + Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen sequence.

Sending energy to your past is slightly different because you want to heal certain events like a break-up or a trauma and not bring that energy into the present. As stated above, 10 minutes once a week is more than enough for this method. This is a way to prevent unhealthy behavior that may sabotage your present and future.

Sending Reiki Distance Healing To Somebody Else

First of all, remember to have the approval of the person before sending energy!

Also, make sure to explain why you’re sending energy and coordinate, so you both focus on the same goal.

15 minutes per day are usually enough for this method.

Whether you’re sending energy for their greater good, general well-being, or to support specific goals, use the same sequence of symbols. A photo or personal belonging will certainly help, but even having the person’s first name top of mind will enhance the connection.

Sending Distance Healing To Someone Who Passed

It’s always a good idea to assist the spirit of a departed loved one on its path to evolution by having this goal and sending energy for 10 minutes at a time. However, it’s also wise to remember that this isn’t an opportunity to communicate with them but a way to help them ascend into the light.

Sending Distance Healing To Your Spirit Guides

You can improve your communication with your Spirit Guides by sending energy to them from time to time. Their purpose is to assist you and offer advice. Many wonderful results will follow if you ask for assistance and send healing energy.

Using Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen To Create Reiki Projects

Whether you’re looking for a fresh start, growing your spiritual side, or even obtaining a material objective, creating a Reiki project will be beneficial.

Write everything at the present moment like it already happened. Remember to add “for your greater good and the ones involved” because you never know what the best outcome looks like.

Fold the paper and send Reiki energy using the Cho Ku Rei + Sei He Ki + Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen sequence for a few minutes every day.

Discover the distance healing symbol Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen >>

Shika Sei Ki Reiki Symbol

This is a non-traditional Reiki symbol that belongs to the second level of Usui Reiki.

Its energy highly resonates with the frequency of the heart chakra – Anahata.

Shika Sei Ki aids in the removal of negative energies from the heart chakra region by cleansing its structure and revitalizing the soul’s essence. As a result, this symbol is highly beneficial for eliminating residual emotions such as sadness, rage, and anxiety.

Here are a few of its uses:

• Shika Sei Ki offers serenity and peace and improves the user’s ability to give and receive love while filling the heart chakra with pure energy;
• Activate it in the center of the room, together with Sei He Ki, to create a warm and loving environment;
• It’s ideal in healing relationships because it helps remove monotony and balance the emotional layer;
• As a symbol that influences the heart area, at the physical level, it contributes to a healthy cardiovascular system;

Shika So Reiki Symbol

This is the second non-traditional Reiki symbol that belongs to Usui level 2. Its primary role is to help heal the structure of the throat chakra – Vishuddha.

Therefore, Shika So deals with communication issues, thyroid problems, and energetic imbalances located at this level.

Here are a few of its uses:

• It improves our social connections by allowing us to be more open with others;
• We may remove anxiety when speaking in front of a large group by learning how to express ourselves flawlessly;
• Shika So is also fantastic for couples that are having difficulties communicating;
• Draw it in the middle of a room to enhance the desire for healthy communication and understanding;

Expressing your feelings verbally and harmoniously can have unbelievable healing effects. This process can release “trapped” emotions that only surface through communication.

Read about Shika Sei Ki and Shika So Reiki symbols >>

Dai Ko Myo – The Master Symbol

Dai Ko Myo is the Master symbol you receive access to at Reiki level 3.

It translates as: “Great Shining Light.”

While other Reiki symbols have a more practical use, Dai Ko Myo is a spiritual concept representing the gateway towards pure, divine light. It depicts the highest level of divine wisdom that one has access to.

Some Reiki teachers and practitioners associate Dai Ko Myo with:

• Enlightenment;
• Success;
• Spiritual growth;
• Compassion;
• Joy;

In general, Dai Ko Myo has the ability to fill a space, an organism, or even an object with light. That’s why positioning it in the middle of a room, along with other Reiki symbols, may help enhance the vibration and cleansing power.

In Reiki self-treatment, activate it on your palms and chakras the same way you would do with other symbols. This will provide a considerably stronger energy flow throughout your body.

Whenever you need divine inspiration or cleansing of your connection to the universal life force energy, apply the sequence: Cho Ku Rei + Sei He Ki + Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen + Dai Kyo Myo on your soul star, crown, and heart chakras.

Meditating on Dai Ko Myo can gradually raise your vibration and bring:

• Mental health;
• Emotional balance;
• Energetic cleansing;
• Spiritual growth;

Dai Ko Myo’s vibration is higher than most Reiki symbols, and it can channel the universal energy more effectively. Still, like all the rest, you don’t need it to enjoy the benefits of Reiki. It’s also advisable to use it when you’re ready and have arrived at this stage. Only when you have the understanding and willingness to fully implement it in your practice will it prove to be of great help.

Read more about Dai Ko Myo here >>

Dumo (Tibetan Dai Ko Myo)

Dumo (Tibetan Dai Ko Myo) is also a Master Symbol that you can use in attunements to open the main energy channel, Sushumna.

It’s one of the symbols that help remove energetic blockages more directly. It can assist Cho Ku Rei for a more efficient outcome when used with this aim.

The Dumo Reiki symbol works great in aligning the energy print of the primary chakras while cleansing them of residual elements.

With the rest of the Reiki symbols, Dumo can re-program and cleanse crystals, making them efficient tools in therapy and meditations.

The Fire Serpent (Nin Giz Zida)

The Fire Serpent Reiki symbol is a non-traditional symbol that you can use in Reiki attunements to cleanse the main energy channel Sushumna and align the energy of the chakras.

You can also use it during your self-treatment sessions or on others by drawing it on the front and back of their bodies.

Apart from its grounding effect, the Serpent of Fire brings a state of calm and serenity.

Use Cho Ku Rei + Sei He Ki + Serpent of Fire sequence parallel to the ground to help clear your energetic path wherever you may travel.

The Dragon of Fire

The Dragon of Fire is a symbol you may use to clear the connection with Earth’s energy. Specifically, it helps to balance the flow of universal and telluric energies.

It’s also useful in treating female genital organ issues, both menstrual pain and other affections.

When you draw it on the backside of your body, it can boost vital energy while helping you to ground yourself.

To create a shield against negative exterior influences, activate it on the front side of your body.

Raku

Raku is a symbol that becomes active when you receive the Reiki level 3 attunement. Usually, you activate it on the back of your body to help flush residual energies by cleansing the main energy channel. It also offers grounding and mental balance to the user.

After the attunement procedure, Raku is ideal for cutting or separating the Reiki teacher’s energy fields from the student. This is also a symbol of independence, passing on the ability to channel universal energy into the physical world.

Raku is a powerful tool that should not be taken lightly. It’s one of the final steps in your Usui Reiki journey but also a new beginning. Make sure to ask your teacher for guidance and be patient as you learn how to use this symbol correctly.

• • •

It can be overwhelming to focus on so much information all at once. This article is a great way to go more in-depth about what interests you.

To easily navigate each symbol’s attributes and uses, we always turn to our “Ultimate Reiki Symbols Guide” to find the best answers. It can quickly reveal the right solution for specific needs and how to implement it for optimal results.

As in this sample:

Karuna Reiki Symbols – Level 1

Karuna Reiki is a Reiki system brought to our world by Reiki Master William Lee Rand. It has a much higher vibration than Usui Reiki when taken as a whole. However, this doesn’t mean that one is “weaker” and the other “stronger.” Instead, Karuna enables the practitioner to connect to a higher vibration level and a different manifestation of the universal life force energy.

Because it includes many spiritual meditations with angels, archangels, and ascending masters, I would say that Karuna Reiki has a more “mystical” approach.

The symbols are also quite different. In this system, they have multiple roles, and you can use them to go deeper into the physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.

Keep in mind that using the Karuna and Usui Reiki symbols together will only amplify the beneficial effects of your practice.

You can do so much with Usui Reiki alone and spend a lifetime learning and mastering it. However, Karuna Reiki can be a great addition and probably a wise next step because you’ll enjoy working with a higher vibration and expanding your spiritual connection. In addition, you’ll also have the benefit of learning new symbols and techniques that will take your practice to a deeper level.

Yet, it is essential to note that Karuna Reiki is not a replacement for Usui Reiki. It is an enhancement and a way to advance your spiritual journey. I would say it’s genuinely worth it only if you’re willing to invest the time and resources to integrate it into your life.

Zonar

Zonar is the first Karuna Reiki symbol you learn. Marcy Millier channeled this symbol through guided meditation, representing infinite love and evolution.

Zonar can help the practitioner connect to the energy print of Archangel Gabriel, the divine messenger, which means that you’ll be able to channel this energy into your Reiki practice and daily life.

You may activate Zonar, like the majority of Reiki symbols, on your palms and chakras. In fact, one of its most important applications occurs during Reiki self-treatment. This is because it has the ability to help heal unpleasant or traumatic past events down to a cellular level.

It can also dissolve residual energies and negative patterns, replacing them with a more beneficial vibration.

Of course, adding the rest of the Reiki symbols to your self-treatment sessions will only enhance these effects.

Unity And Wholeness

Together with Cho Ku Rei and Sei He Ki, Zonar enhances the healing effects of your self-treatment. 

Consider this sequence for cleansing a room or your entire home. To do this, activate the symbols on the walls, ceiling, corners, and floor. Zonar will create a shield against negative energies, while the other two symbols will cleanse and energize the area.

Zonar also works well in distance healing to aid a relationship. This technique can aid in the resolution of any karmic blockages or imbalances that may prevent a connection from flourishing.

All in all, Zonar is a powerful symbol that can bring about healing and positive change on many levels. When you add it to your Reiki practice, you’ll be opening yourself up to new possibilities and expanded healing potential.

Read more about Zonar Reiki symbol here >>

Halu

Halu is the second symbol you learn at the first level of Karuna Reiki and complements Zonar by offering a certain level of psychic protection and healing.

As Zonar helps connect to the energy of Archangel Gabriel, Halu enables you to bridge the connection between you and the healing energies of Archangel Raphael. He is the guide of all doctors and healers from all planes of existence.

You may use Halu in your daily self-treatment by activating it on your palms and chakras. Like Zonar, you can add it to the sequence you use to cleanse a room. It will amplify the protective effect against malevolent influences.

When applied to the entire body, Halu creates a structural and energetic protection field similar to a “pyramid of energy.”

Here are some of Halu’s main uses:

• Activate it on your energy centers to increase self-trust;
• If you activate it on the superior chakras, it will create a layer of protection against any kind of physical or mental aggression;
• Through meditation, Halu can heal your body’s energetic structures and place your consciousness in harmony with your soul;
• It surfaces the root of past traumas so you can heal them in your optimum rhythm;

Another interesting use of Halu is that it helps us acknowledge our own mistakes, learn from them and grow. As we take responsibility for our wrongdoings, we become more conscious individuals and avoid repeating the same actions.

Dealing with our flaws and imperfections can be a difficult task, but with the help of Halu, we can do it more gracefully. We can finally let go of our shame or guilt and start moving forward with our lives.

The beauty of Halu is that it doesn’t just offer protection and healing but also growth and evolution. As we start immersing ourselves in its energies, we can become more compassionate and understanding. We can also start seeing the world in a different light, full of hope and possibility.

Read more about Halu Reiki symbol here >>

Harth

This is the third symbol you learn at the first level of the Karuna Reiki system. One might notice a resemblance between this word and the term “heart.” This is not by chance because Harth represents pure love and light.

Harth Reiki symbol opens the gateways to the highest and purest forms of energy and vibration. This leads to an understanding of unconditional and divine love.

I would advise activating this symbol on the crown, third eye, throat, and heart chakras before using it in self-treatment. This action, especially at the crown chakra level, will help generate a pure desire to love life and everything in it.

Activating Harth on the heart and throat chakras has the role of helping improve your emotional connection with the people in your life. And, everything related to aiding the heart area has the potential of fighting most cardiac issues.

The Sequence

Cho Ku Rei + Sei He Ki + Shika Sei Ki + Harth + Dai Ko Myo is the ideal sequence of Reiki symbols to:

• Eliminate emotional blockages by enhancing the feeling of compassion and forgiveness towards ourselves and others;
• Physically speaking, this sequence can potentially keep any cardiovascular issues at bay. After all, most physical problems derive from an imbalance at the energetic level, which, in turn, has its roots in the spiritual world. A lack of self-love and compassion towards others leads to a negative physical cause within the cardiac area;
• Slowly place your emotional body in a state of healing by bringing to the conscious mind the source of imbalances at this level;
• Fills your heart chakra – Anahata and the heart’s energy center with pure beneficial energy;

In general, drawing the Harth Reiki symbol will bring the energy of love and compassion to any specific area. This can be a relationship, situation, physical space, or health concern. Whatever you are working on in your life, the Harth symbol can help increase this specific flow of energy.

Keep in mind that love is the most potent force in the universe. Therefore, anything is possible when we open ourselves up to this type of energy!

Read more about the Harth Reiki symbol here >>

Rama

Rama is the fourth and last symbol of the first level in Karuna Reiki. Its main attribute is grounding and helps maintain balance. You can use Rama in meditation to connect to Archangel Michael‘s energy to receive guidance and protection.

Constantly using and adding the Rama symbol in self-treatment will help eliminate any blockages within the meridian energy channels. In turn, this leads to better energy flow through your body and to better health.

When you feel disconnected from the earth, apply Rama on your feet to ground yourself.

Rama is also an excellent cleanser and purifier of indoor spaces. The best way to use it in this situation is to activate the symbol in the room’s center and each of the four corners.

Rama Main Uses

At a personal level – activate Rama around you to create a protective shield against unwanted influences;

Protects and cleanses your home, workspace, or crystals;

Activate Rama in front of you while having the intention of removing energetic obstacles from your path;

Enhances your ability to focus on daily tasks once you activate it on the third eye chakra;

Use Rama in self-treatment by activating it on the first three chakras to help dissolve the energies that cause depression or sadness;

It acts as a buffer between you and dark entities or energies;

Consider using this Karuna Reiki symbol when you feel out of focus. It will help you connect with Archangel Michael’s energy, guiding and protecting you. Always ask for the outcome to manifest in the best way for you because we never know what is best for us.

Read more about Rama Reiki symbol here >>

Karuna Reiki Symbols – Level 2

Gnosa

This is the first symbol from the second level of Karuna Reiki and represents “knowledge.” Marie Abraham channeled it through guided meditation.

Gnosa is in strong relation with the angels and entities of Divine wisdom. Activate it on your palms and superior chakras to enhance your intuition and ability to learn and understand. If you constantly use it in your practice, it can stimulate your memory and creative side.

On a more spiritual note, you can use Gnosa to connect to your higher self and unveil the absolute Divine truth. This will be in accordance with your present level of vibration and understanding.

This Karuna Reiki symbol can bring to the surface your potential for true spiritual knowledge and wisdom. It’s a way to become more aware of essential values like compassion, understanding, and forgiveness. But to assist others, you have to cultivate these qualities within yourself.

Gnosa supports self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-love in a harmonious, non-narcissistic way. Once you have embodied and integrated these qualities, you will radiate them outwards.

But the symbol also has a more practical use that can gradually eliminate fatigue, help you recover from hangovers, and give you a strong general focus. You can draw a double Gnosa on your crown chakra to enable this function.

While “knowledge” is the go-to term for Gnosa, “awareness” is probably the best way to describe its more profound role.

Read more about the Gnosa Reiki symbol here >>

Kriya

Kriya is the second symbol in the level 2 Karuna Reiki system, channeled by Reiki Master Kathleen Millner in cooperation with William Lee Rand. It represents the manifestation of material creation through action and its connection to the angels of creativity.

Any dream can come true if it’s in harmony with the Divine will.

Kriya guides the energy placed inside each goal or dream to the right place and time to manifest. That is why, along with other symbols, it can support Reiki projects.

When you set an intention, you put your desire out there into the universe. And when you do this with a clear and focused mind, you are more likely to achieve your desired outcome. This is because the universe will conspire to help you achieve your goal, as long as it aligns with your highest good.

Kriya turns ideas into action.

One of the best ways to use Kriya is to activate it on the soul star and crown chakras to remove the subconscious blockages and amplify your focus.

Kriya is also an excellent method to ground and cleanse yourself when you feel off balance. To do this, draw the symbol from your hips all the way down to your feet.

But you can use Kriya for more ambitious goals as well. With its high vibration, it blends perfectly with Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen to assist in the healing of our planet. Obviously, this won’t happen overnight and without involving other practitioners.

Keep in mind that your own personal growth is also essential to this process. As you raise your vibration, you increase the amount of light you can send out into the world. One individual can influence the collective consciousness, but it all starts with making a difference in our own lives.

Iava

This 3rd symbol was channeled by Reiki Master Catherine Mills, and it’s the third you learn at the second level of Karuna Reiki.

Its main attribute is to phase out the veil of illusions.

Iava has the ability to eliminate false self-generated conditionings or patterns and open the channel to reality.

Iava connects with the angels of harmony, nature, and Earth. It indicates that everything is whole and connected.

By activating the symbol on the crown chakra (drawing it twice on the brain hemispheres), you access your own authentic ideas and clear out unwanted influences.

You may also use it to protect against manipulations and negatively induce thoughts.

Activate it in your palms during self-treatment to slowly create a buffer between you and harmful social patterns. Iava will help you define your own reality and authentic perception of the world.

Tapping into Karuna’s higher vibration can help you break free from self-imposed limitations and open up to new possibilities. You’ll start developing your inner strength and self-trust to move closer to your dreams and goals.

Read more about Iava Reiki symbol here >>

Shanti

Shanti is the 4th and last symbol in the Karuna Reiki level 2 system. It was channeled by Reiki Master Pat Courtney.

This is a high vibrational symbol that has peace as its primary attribute.

From a spiritual perspective, it connects to the angels of harmony, peace, and support.

I prefer using Shanti in self-treatment on the 7th, 6th, 5th, 4th, and 3rd chakras, including their projections. This is to quickly harmonize, open, and balance these energy centers.

Together with Sei He Ki and Shika Sei Ki, they bring peace and harmony to an environment.

Here are some of the important uses for Shanti:

• Brings harmony and peace when activated on a chakra or in the center of a room;
• Induces a feeling of relaxation when chanted (Shanti means “peace” in Hindi);
• Helps manifest Reiki projects smoothly;
• Can defuse panic attacks and fears;
• Contributes to detachment, accepting the present while helping create a radiant future;
• Using it in self-treatment can potentially help you remove insomnia and enhance your self-trust;

Shanti is an ideal symbol for those looking to cultivate a sense of tranquility in their lives. You may consider it in situations where there is disharmony or chaos to bring an energy of serenity that can change things for the better.

Always keep in mind that sometimes things are supposed to happen in a certain way. So even if you want the best for everyone involved, the ideal outcome might not look imagined. That’s why, with the right intentions, aim for the greater good of the situation.

Read more about Shanti Reiki symbol here >>

Karuna Reiki Symbols – Level 3

AUM (OM)

Similar to Dai Ko Myo in Usui Reiki, AUM or OM is the master symbol for Karuna Reiki.

It personifies the essence of:

• Compassion;
• Unconditional Love;
• Forgiveness;
• True mastery of oneself;
• The unaltered and pure connection to the universal life force energy.

Originally a Sanskrit symbol, AUM connects to the angels of Divine harmony and purity. It holds the energy and knowledge of eons of spiritual evolution, not only from this physical world but from other spiritual planes of existence.

Meditating on AUM can surface many hidden truths about our inner potential and spiritual role.

AUM also represents Universal unity and produces the essence of purity and connection to Divinity.

In attunements, it opens the crown chakra and the main energy channel, Sushumna.

You may activate AUM on your palms and the higher chakras in self-treatment. With Dai Ko Myo and Harth, they create the perfect path to love, harmony, and light. Use this sequence on the soul star, crown, third-eye, and heart chakras for best results.

AUM is part of one of the most complete cleansing mantras that we know of:

“Aum Mani Padme Hum”

This mantra has the ability to help you connect with your higher self and acquire superior knowledge. In addition, it diminishes negative habits while also purifying your thoughts of residual stray thoughts.

Aum Mani Padme Hum purifies the body through meditation and guides you towards a higher consciousness level.

AUM is more of a concept than a symbol and is considered the most important mantra in Hinduism and Buddhism. You can use it to connect with your higher self and cleanse your body and mind of negative thoughts and habits.

It’s a way to access your higher potential and a guide towards enlightenment and self-realization.

Read more about AUM (OM) Reiki symbol here >>

Shamballa MDH Reiki Symbols

The Shamballa Reiki system is a high-vibrational Reiki system channeled through The Count of Saint Germain directly to John Armitage.

It expands on the Usui Reiki system and can offer amazing results when applied correctly. Yet, it’s very complex and has many different types of meditations. Each one is meant to help raise the practitioner’s consciousness and spiritual potential.

This implies that it’s suited for more experienced practitioners looking to advance to the next level.

Additionally, it provides access to some of the highest energies known to mankind:

• Christ Consciousness;
• The Mahatma Energy;
• The Shamballa energy;
• Ascendant Masters energy;
• The Silver-Violet Flame of Saint Germain energy;
• Merkaba Energy;
• Archangel Michael’sMichael’s Pillar of protection;

It is said that the Shamballa Reiki system has 352 symbols, each with its own attributes and uses. Still, they remain unknown and for very good reason.

One may need to perform extensive meditations to connect with these symbols, but they also have to have the right to receive them.

That being said, let’s talk about the most important ones!

Mer Ka Fa Ka Lish Ma

Mer Ka Fa Ka Lish Ma is among the first symbols you learn at the second level of Shamballa Reiki.

This symbol enhances your potential to activate the dormant DNA sequences, which allow you to develop as a spiritual being.

It represents the manifestation of the Divine Mother – the spiritual entity of the Earth. That’s why when activated on the back of the body, Mer Ka Fa Ka Lish Ma helps ground and cleanse your Kundalini energy.

It also helps realign and energize the back projection of your chakras.

You may activate Mer Ka Fa Ka Lish Ma during self-treatment on your palms and crown chakra to benefit from a deep cleansing of past and present residual energy prints.

These patterns can negatively impact our emotional bodies if ignored for a long time. However, you don’t need complex procedures to address them. Using Cho Ku Rei + Sei He Ki is a great way to reinstate balance in this case. What’s crucial is not to let them accumulate or disregard them completely.

As with other symbols, Mer Ka Fa Ka Lish Ma needs time to build up its energy in your system. If you choose to use it constantly, it has the power to rebalance and activate the energy structure at the DNA level.

Read more about the Mer Ka Fa Ka Lish Ma Reiki symbol here >>

Motor Zanon

Motor Zanon is a unique Reiki symbol that you can use to disintegrate bacteria or viruses. That’s why you may also find it as the Anti-Viral symbol.

Together with Cho Ku Rei, they can bring amazing.

Activate 3 x Cho Ku Rei + 3 x Motor Zanon + 3 x Cho Ku Rei above the infected area to open the energetic gateway towards specialized entities. These have the power to help heal a living organism from the effects caused by bacteria or viruses.

Through practice and experimentation, I’ve noticed that this sequence is even more efficient in conjunction with other symbols. This is probably because a complete self-treatment, accompanied by the right symbols for your current situation, work together to provide healing at all levels.

One winter, I struggled with an aggressive form of flu with high fever and chest congestion. While proper medication has its role, you can speed up the process with Reiki. So, I asked my spirit guides to support my cleansing efforts and added the Motor Zanon sequence three times per day. In less than 3 days, I almost recovered without heavy medication.

Motor Zanon can be very effective in overcoming some health issues. Still, it’s not a replacement for medical attention when needed. It’s always advisable to consult with your health care professional to make sure you’re getting the best possible care.

Reiki complements allopathic medicine, and that’s why I always highlight that it’s not an “alternative,” as some people like to call it. Instead, it’s a “complementary” approach that can work synergistically with other forms of health care for the patient’s benefit.

If you’re feeling run down, try adding Motor Zanon to your self-treatment routine and see how you feel afterward. You may be surprised by the results!

Read more about Motor Zanon Reiki symbol here >>

Palm Master Symbol

This is one of the most powerful symbols in all the Reiki systems, and you gain access to it at level 3 Shamballa Reiki.

It promotes a pleasant, healthy, and balanced link between the inner self, soul, and higher self. It allows you to tap into higher levels of consciousness and divine wisdom because of this.

To utilize it in Reiki self-treatment, first activate it on your hands. Then, you may add it to the soul star and crown chakras while visualizing its energy flowing through your body. The third step is activating (or visualizing) it on your full body length as a 3-dimensional structure. Then, allow it to blend with your energetic body.

Some may find this process a bit daunting. If that’s the case, follow the drawing with the steps below:

1 – Draw or visualize “1” the semicircle above your head;
2 – Visualize how “2” runs through your head, connecting the Pineal and Pituitary glands.
3 – “3” descends to the throat chakra level;
4 – Continue with the spiral “4” all the way down to the Earth Star chakra;
5 – Finish with “5” above the crown chakra;

Palm Master Symbol helps “push” down residual and negative energies from your body while offering the necessary flow of universal energy to place your structures in a state of healing.

Read more about Palm Master Reiki symbol here >>

Amsui

Amsui belongs to the 3rd level of Shamballa Reiki and symbolizes completion.

This Reiki symbol is credited to Bas Van Woelderen and is mainly used in the Shamballa Reiki attunement process.

Amsui consists of seven symbols that correspond to each of the primary chakras and, therefore, to a certain level of consciousness.

During the Reiki self-treatment, activate Amsui on your palms, soul star, and crown chakras. Similar to Palm Master, you can also use Amsui on your body – front and back. As mentioned, each symbol of Amsui can be individually drawn on the seven primary chakras.

When you meditate or constantly use it in self-treatment, Amsui generates a unique vibration. This will help you integrate the beneficial elements of the Shamballa Reiki system into your life. It will also provide a better understanding of your spiritual connection to the rest of the world.

Amsui is the guide that helps you adapt to shifting energies and vibrations as you progress in your spiritual journey.

Read more about Amsui Reiki symbol here >>

Ho Ka O Ili Ili

This Shamballa Reiki symbol belongs to the 3rd level and helps enhance your self-esteem.

The best way to benefit from Ho Ka O Ili Ili is to activate it on the front and back of your body.

Its vibration will gradually integrate within your energetic body and teach you how to manifest self-respect while developing inner confidence. Moreover, it will create an aura of consideration around you.

You can condition it to remain activated for as much as needed or until the next time you perform a self-healing session.

Ho Ka O Ili Ili is ideal for people working on their personal development and want to feel better about themselves.

When you start using this symbol, you will begin to see a change in the way you think about yourself and your relationship with others. It is an excellent approach to boosting your confidence and making progress on your spiritual path.

Read more about Ho Ka O Ili Ili Reiki symbol here >>

Abundance

If you ever wondered if there is a “Reiki symbol for attracting money,” this is the one. The Abundance Reiki symbol belongs to the 3rd level of the Shamballa Reiki. Its main attribute is to attract the energy of abundance and prosperity on a spiritual, energetic, and physical level.

You may use the Abundance symbol in self-treatment to “embed” yourself in its vibration. Activate it on your palms with the rest of the symbols, and place your hands in the Reiki hand positions.

NOTE: The other Reiki symbols will enhance its energy and potential to manifest your spiritual and material goals.

The Abundance symbol also works in Reiki projects to help the spiritual and material goals manifest optimally for you.

You can also meditate on this symbol to increase your abundance vibration and remove potential blockages.

When it comes to material gains, finding the right job, or growing your business, the symbol’s energy can support these efforts by “cutting” and removing the residual energies of poverty.

Read more about the Abundance Reiki symbol here >>

Other Reiki Symbols

Several Reiki symbols exist outside the known systems. They have been channeled by various masters and can serve as excellent “tools” in your Reiki work.

You may use them to enhance the overall effect, cleanse a room, or benefit from a higher vibration.

In this section, we will outline some of the most popular ones.

Johrei

Johrei is a spiritual concept similar to Reiki. It has Japanese origins and means “purification of the spirit.” Johrei supports the idea that imbalances start at the spiritual level before manifesting in the physical plane.

The Buddhist priests used the hands-on Johrei method to heal a person’s soul and physical ailments.

You can consider using the Johrei Reiki symbol in your self-treatment by activating it on the soul star and crown chakras.

Yet, the best way to benefit from its energy is to place it on a wall or under a table. Its pure presence has the potential to dissolve most negative energies from an area and fill it with a higher vibration. 

Furthermore, Johrei can release energetic blockages from your chakras and their fields.

Meditate on this symbol to:

• Clear your mind;
• Heal your emotional and mental layers;
• Remove blockages from your energetic structures and restore their original divine potential;
• Travel your spiritual path without distractions;

Together with Johrei’s specific uses, these benefits make it an ideal Reiki symbol for creating a serene environment for any kind of healing therapy.

Hosanna

This symbol was channeled by Reiki master Eileen Gurhy, and it’s considered part of the Karuna Reiki system.

There are two ways to draw the Hosanna Reiki symbol.

This first version removes blockages and represents a more general cleansing of the mental, emotional, and energetic layers.

• Activate Hosanna on your palms and crown chakra;
• Visualize as the symbol descends through your physical body;
• Now it will rotate counterclockwise while cleansing all the harmful programs and residual energies;
• You can always activate Hosanna on your palms before the Reiki self-treatment to integrate its energy;

NOTE: This procedure may produce a rapid rise in vibration, making you dizzy.

Hosanna brings a perfect balance of the Yin and Yang energies. It provides harmony to the practitioner or the area you intend to cleanse.

The second version has more specific uses. For example, you may consider it for health problems and even traumas.

• Activate your palms with Cho Ku Rei + Sei He Ki + Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen + Hosanna;
• Visualize the event that you want to heal by sending energy for about 10 minutes twice a week;
• Use the same sequence to support the healing of specific health imbalances;

To make the most out of this Reiki symbol, especially the second version, you can call upon the healing energy of Archangel Michael and Count of Saint Germain.

Len So My

Len So My Reiki symbol represents a pure manifestation of the universal life force energy, specifically – unconditional love.

You can activate it on your palms, crown, and heart chakras before the Reiki self-treatment. The symbol will bring comfort to your soul and spiritual aid to those who feel confused, lost, or unwelcome in a relationship.

Another great way to benefit from Len So My is to print it and keep it next to you when practicing Reiki or meditating. Its structure will emanate a harmonious, pure loving energy within the space.

Conclusion

Reiki symbols represent different energies one can use in their practice. They enable us to focus the universal life force energy and reach specific outcomes.

Each symbol is unique, but together they all serve a similar purpose – enhancing the overall practice by tapping into higher, more refined energy levels.

When using Reiki symbols, remember that intention is key. They are merely conduits for directing and amplifying the healing energy, but the power comes from within. Symbols are certainly powerful items but cannot replace the practice itself.

Using the hand positions exclusively can return tremendous results with time and patience. Never underestimate the potential of simplifying things or rush to the next step believing that complex might be better. The symbols are there to support and empower your healing journey, not take over.

Consistency is Reiki’s hidden secret. Like anything else in life, we get out what we put in. Therefore, the more time and effort you invest, the more rewarding your experience.

Trust the process, let go of expectations, and enjoy the journey!