Reiki Ohana

OHANA- Ohana is a Polynesian word, well known (somewhat) by the people of my nation due to the great "Aloha State," Hawaii...Ohana superficially means "family," but in fact the Hawaiian language, like Sanskrit, is a spiritual language- it is a language where each sound/letter is like a mantra carrying deep meaning...so "O-hana" means much more than what we generally think of, as modern Americans, that "family" means....it means family as in the "spiritual brotherhood of humankind." It is very, very deep but in a joyful way. When we welcome people into our "ohana" this is what we mean. BTW I have studied, practiced and taught mantra and mantric arts for 35+ years, including learning from some of the most renowned experts alive and am in fact in a course of study which results in ordination as a Minister in their spiritual path/church specializing in healing with mantra. This does not make me an “expert,” but as the late great Namadeva Thomas Ashley-Farrand told me, “well, you’re not a beginner.”

In my Reiki Classes I begin by explaining the meaning and significance of both "alo-ha" and "o-hana," as they are the bedrock foundation along with compassion- which is embedded into the meaning of both of these sacred words- the bedrock foundation of Reiki Healing Arts as I and ALL reiki teachers worth their salt teach and share it. This is how we all teach, each in our own ways.

Due to my connections by both lineage and personal background I admire and respect the Hawaiian culture and language, in fact I have reverence for it. For instance it was in Hawaii that the reiki arts were preserved outside of Japan and then introduced to the entire world. Out of RESPECT I pay tribute to this. When I welcome people into the "Reiki Ohana" this is the meaning- I am not trying to steal other people's students lol.

Now aloha is another very sacred word- it means roughly, "the highest aspect of myself joyfully greets and acknowledges the highest aspect of yourself." In other words we are meeting or parting at the level of Higher Self. Pure and simple. It is so, so beautiful. Traditionally flowers are also offered- the flowers symbolizing this understanding- the flowering of compassion, love and wisdom.

I do not expect every reiki student to truly get this right off, that is why the first class is called "Shoden," which means roughly, "entering the Path," or "being accepted into the Path." I myself learn every day about this sacred path and my role in it. But rest assured I am sincere.

Those who are cynical, bitter and full of anger, fear, hatred or rage- I encourage you to dig deep and go higher. Please consider what I am saying. I only know one way to share reiki healing arts- from my heart. Your way is your way, and I respect that. But please understand this is where I am coming from. We can all learn new things, yes- even you old dogs!!!

Aloha to all my reiki ohana, known and unknown.

Only Love.