I've been reflecting this week on the healing nature of radical presence and being seen. One of the greatest gifts of Reiki is the creation of a resonant healing space, where both the practitioner and the receiver are completely and fully present. It is in this space of intentional presence that the client is able to connect to themselves more deeply and find their own path to wellness.
How often do we receive someone's full attention? How often does someone just listen to us, without offering advice, trying to convince us to see things from their point of view, or offering up ways to fix our problems?
In his book, A Hidden Wholeness, Parker Palmer writes, "The human soul doesn’t want to be advised or fixed or saved. It simply wants to be witnessed — to be seen, heard and companioned exactly as it is. When we make that kind of deep bow to the soul of a suffering person, our respect reinforces the soul’s healing resources, the only resources that can help the sufferer make it through." This quote beautifully illustrates the essence of being seen. Being a compassionate witness who is deeply present is truly one of my favorite parts of a Reiki session.
By being present, I offer a safe space where the client can explore their emotions and release them without judgment. During a Reiki session, I listen deeply to the client's body and energy. My hands are like antennas that can detect blockages, imbalances, and areas that need healing. My intuition also guides me to areas that need attention. Reiki itself is a powerful force that guides both the practitioner and the client towards healing.
By being radically present during a Reiki session, I support the client in connecting with their inner wisdom, and finding their own path to healing. When we feel seen, heard, and understood, it reinforces our soul's healing resources, and supports us in navigating through challenges and dis-ease.
On Being Seen There is beauty in being seen, In knowing that someone else knows, The depths of this heart and this soul, And the stories still lurking in shadows. To be heard, to be met with a nod, To release words that struggle to be spoken, And emotions well-hidden yet so close at hand, One step closer to being unbroken. But also beauty in sweet solitude, In quiet self-companionship, Where this soul can be witnessed, And all of its intricacies can unzip. For the soul simply asks to be seen, Heard, and met without any pretense, To shed light on its contents at last, And all its complexities immense. And with connection comes a blossoming, Allowing life to pour through like a river, Joy and pain ebb and flow, with the tide, To be let go with grace and with vigor. In a life, it's the moments we share, With ourselves and each other that matter, The soul’s solace in being seen and heard, Reminds us we are light and won’t shatter. KB Mac
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