We all love spiritual symbols.
They bridge the gap between our physical existence and what’s beyond the unseen. Throughout our life’s journey, symbols help us tap into different manifestations of the universal energy, unlocking insights and wisdom that stimulate our awareness.
Some symbols serve as keys, opening doors to other dimensions or connecting us with worlds long forgotten—or perhaps undiscovered by historians and explorers alike.
Reiki symbols fit this description perfectly.
And…
It all starts with the first and most iconic symbol of all:
Cho Ku Rei Reiki Symbol
Cho Ku Rei is the first symbol introduced at Reiki level 1:
- It helps practitioners channel the universal energy with more focus and direction.
- It enhances the universal energy flow.
- It helps open the energetic gateways that allow the energy to travel across time and space.
This is how I use Cho Ku Rei:
I use this symbol almost without exception.
That’s because it’s a versatile Reiki symbol that works in almost any situation. Because it enhances the properties of other symbols, it becomes an integral part of any sequence.
Therefore:
- I activate it in my palm and primary chakras before the self-treatment or treatment of others.
- This stimulates the energy flow throughout my entire energetic body.
- It also adds a layer of protection.
But the best thing about working with symbols is that, with time, they can reveal new uses that go beyond traditional teachings.
That was the case for me.
Out of curiosity, I experimented on myself and others, with their consent, of course.
The results?
Always pleasantly unexpected.
NOTE: Although this symbol is traditionally introduced at Level 2 in Usui Reiki, I’ve encountered Level 1 practitioners who comfortably incorporate Cho Ku Rei into their self-treatment practices. So, it’s not exactly a strict “rule of thumb,” as Reiki is a spiritual practice free from the limitations and boundaries of the physical world.
3 Non-Traditional Uses Of Cho Ku Rei
1. Three-Dimensional (3D) Cho Ku Rei
3D Cho Ku Rei is ideal for enhancing energetic protection.
- Activating your palms and primary chakras with the standard Cho Ku Rei.
- Add the 3D version on your palms.
- Visualize a 3D Cho Ku Rei forming at the crown of your head and spiraling downward, enveloping your entire physical body and energy field all the way to your feet. You can also use your dominant hand to activate the symbol.
When to use it: I recommend using the 3D Cho Ku Rei if you expect a long day of therapy on others or if you’re entering a low-vibrational environment where you may need extra protection.
2. Reverse Cho Ku Rei
The reverse Cho Ku Rei is a flipped Cho Ku Rei.
It helps draw out excessive universal and vital energy from a living organism, essentially “draining” it of light.
NOTE: The way you activate Cho Ku Rei is not as important as your intention. Don’t worry about doing it wrong. Your intention matters more. So, use it wisely.
How to use it: Unlike the standard symbol, there’s no need to activate the reverse Cho Ku Rei on your palms or chakras. Instead, direct it to the situation or person (with their consent). You can simply apply the reverse Cho Ku Rei over their entire body.
When to use it: This version is helpful when drawing out excessive energy to combat insomnia or hyperactivity.
3. Cho Ku Rei Between You and Someone Else
Ever found yourself in front of a furious person or aggressive animal?
This is a good time to consider activating the Cho Ku Rei Reiki symbol between you and the situation that’s unfolding in front of you. It acts as an energetic barrier, filtering out negative intentions, projections, and actions.
How to use it:
- Activate a large Cho Ku Rei symbol between you and the situation in front of you.
- This could be a person, an animal, or even an unpleasant event unfolding.
- You can use your dominant hand to activate the symbol or simply visualize it.
- It’s important to place the symbol between you and the situation, not directly on the person. You want to create a shield of energetic protection, not influence the other party.
When to use it: Use this technique whenever you feel threatened, physically aggressed, manipulated, or pressured to do something against your will.
Conclusion
These may seem like techniques for more advanced practitioners.
Nevertheless, there’s no harm in experimenting with each one.
The “real danger” is to get lost in details and forget about the essence of Reiki. Otherwise, such situations are quite common and why not apply what you learn?
That being said, the takeaway is simple: Reiki symbols have more to offer than what we currently know. Meditate on the symbols you resonate the most with to explore their potential and discover new uses.
Reiki doesn’t end with a book or course – this is only the beginning.