Summarize:

Reiki is a Japanese healing technique that was developed in the 1920s by a Buddhist monk named Mikao Usui. Like many other forms of energy healing, Reiki involves the practitioner gently touching various points on the patient's body. Scientific studies of Reiki therapy have demonstrated that it is effective for reducing pain, anxiety, fatigue, and stress, and that it may be especially useful for patients dealing with chronic illnesses or recovering from difficult surgeries. Read up on the history and therapeutic benefits of Reiki at the Center for Reiki Research website: http://www.centerforreikiresearch.org/ In order to become a Reiki practitioner, you must learn from a qualified Reiki master. While there is no one organization or governing body that determines who can be qualified to practice Reiki, there are a variety of private companies and organizations that offer Reiki training, certification, and licensing. Ask around among people you know who practice Reiki to find out where they trained, or do an online search for Reiki training in your area. You can search for a teacher or practitioner registered through the International Association of Reiki Professionals here: https://iarp.org/find-reiki-practitioner-teacher/ Although the stages of Reiki training may vary depending on your school or instructor, it is typically taught in 3 stages or “degrees.” The first degree focuses on teaching students simple techniques that they can use on themselves and friends or family. You will learn about the history and precepts of Reiki, as well as basic healing techniques.  First-degree training typically takes only 8-12 hours to complete, although some beginning courses may take longer (e.g., 1-2 days). The cost of first-degree or beginning Reiki training may vary depending on your teacher or school, but introductory classes often cost around $200 USD.  Training may include the basics of hand placement, meditation techniques, and hands-on practice. In many Reiki training programs, the second stage of learning involves the use of distance healing. These techniques emphasize using mental focus for indirect manipulation of energies, rather than directly laying hands on the body. These techniques may be useful in situations where direct touch is inappropriate or impossible (e.g., for relieving pain from open wounds).  Different instructors or schools may have different prerequisites for second-degree training. For example, you may be required to have practiced first-degree Reiki self-care for at least 6 months or to have completed a certain number of supervised clinical practice sessions.  Check with your teacher or school to find out how long the training lasts and how much it will cost. Second-degree training may last 1-2 days to over a week, with prices varying from around $300 USD to $600 USD or more. The third and final level of Reiki training is mastery. Once you become a qualified Reiki master, you can both practice Reiki and teach it to others. The training required to become a Reiki master is in-depth, and may take a year or more to complete. The cost of Reiki master training may vary depending on your school or teacher, but master programs can cost around $1600 USD. There are many different ways to practice Reiki. Some people may prefer to limit their practice to self-care and therapy for family and friends. However, if you are a more advanced practitioner, you might consider operating a private practice from your home or a rented space. Some physical therapists or healthcare providers also choose to incorporate Reiki into their regular practice.  If you choose to become a private practitioner, consider purchasing professional liability insurance.  If you'd rather not try to set up your own business, consider working or volunteering with a clinic, hospital, physical therapy center, gym, or yoga center in your area that offers energy healing or holistic medicine services. Consider becoming a member of a professional organization, such as the International Association of Reiki Professionals (IARP). Members of the IARP must be practitioners (at any level) or teachers of Reiki, and must pay a membership fee. The basic yearly fee is $169 USD.
Familiarize yourself with Reiki. Find a Reiki master in your area. Take a first-degree training class to learn the basics of Reiki. Complete a second-degree course to learn more advanced techniques. Become a Reiki master with third degree training. Establish your Reiki practice.