The modern practice of Reiki energy healing began with the discoveries of Mikao Ursui.  However, because much of our knowledge of Reiki has been passed down orally, there are now a number of different "schools" of Reiki.  All have their own ideas on the best, most important elements of Reiki healing.  There is general agreement, however, that each level of Reiki training must begin with an attunement.

An attunement is a ritual performed by a Reiki Master.  An attunement is essential to becoming a healer.  During an attunement, the student is connected to the Universal Life Force (ki).  The ritual attunement opens the student to the source of ki so that he or she can access and channel it in future healings. At each succeeding level of training and attunement, the amount of healing energy available to the healer is increased and the ability to channel it is enhanced.

While some masters would argue that attunements must be done in person, face-to-face, Master Steve Murray believes that attunements can be performed at a distance through various media (e.g., DVD's, telephone, etc.).  In fact, Steve has successfully conducted numerous distance attunements through the materials available on his website.

The reaction to an attunement is an individual matter.  Every student experiences an attunement somewhat differently. The person's reaction may be subtle or profound. There is no one correct reaction. Over the years, students have reported a variety of sensations, including visions, colors, sounds, disembodied voices, and tingling sensations.  In any case, an attunement forever changes the person.  It creates a healer.