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Newly updated September 2026! Explore the history, theory, and basic practice of Reiki in this 5-hour continuing education course for massage therapists. Reiki is a Japanese energy-based practice that uses specific hand positions as part of a complementary approach to wellness.
The course introduces the history of Reiki, how the practice is traditionally understood, basic hand positions, benefits and contraindications, and the different levels of Reiki training. Case studies provide additional examples of how Reiki may be incorporated into complementary wellness practices.
In this course, you will learn:
The definition and history of Reiki therapy
The origins of Reiki and the work of Mikao Usui
Basic Reiki theory and principles
How Reiki is traditionally practiced
Basic Reiki hand positions
Benefits and contraindications of Reiki
Different levels or degrees of Reiki training
How to pursue additional Reiki practitioner training
Examples of Reiki applications through case studies
Why take this course?
Reiki is a complementary practice that some massage therapists choose to explore as an addition to their professional knowledge and skill set. Understanding its history, principles, hand positions, and appropriate considerations can help therapists make informed decisions about whether Reiki fits within their professional practice.
This 5-hour introductory course provides a convenient way to explore the foundations of Reiki without requiring advanced practitioner training. It is a good choice for massage therapists who are interested in energy-based complementary practices and want to learn more about Reiki before pursuing additional education.
Describe the history and origins of Reiki therapy.
Explain basic Reiki principles and traditional concepts.
Identify basic Reiki hand positions.
Describe the traditional practice of Reiki.
Identify potential benefits and contraindications associated with Reiki.
Describe the different levels or degrees of Reiki training.
Recognize options for pursuing additional Reiki practitioner education.
Discuss examples of Reiki applications presented through case studies.
Text: Reiki Basics text by the Center for Massage Therapy Continuing Education, 98 pages
Course guide with instructions
28-question examination
Course evaluation
Certificate of achievement upon completion
Unlimited phone support
The Center for Massage Therapy Continuing Education, LLC is an Approved Provider through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB); Approved Provider number 409296-00.
Our massage online continuing education courses are also accepted by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP), and most state boards.
For more information on individual state requirements and approvals, please visit our Approvals pageand click on your state.
This was a good refresher course for me. I especially liked the chart for hand positions. - Anita Rosebush, LMT
I liked that even though I chose to test online, I could view the exam before I tested. - Julie Skinner, LMT
Perfect introductory course in Reiki! - Patty Longfellow, NCBTMB
I liked the clairty of the course. - S. Boerum, LMT
The Japanese word Reiki is written using which two kanji characters in one commonly used modern form?
A. Rei and Ki
B. Usui and Ryoho
C. Cho and Ku
D. Sei and He
When working with hand positions involving sensitive areas such as the chest, abdomen, or pelvis, the practitioner should:
A. Use the exact position regardless of client preference
B. Avoid discussing the position because Reiki is non-invasive
C. Allow the client to decide only after the position has been used
D. Explain the intended hand placement beforehand and obtain the client's consent
Which of the following should NOT be included in documentation of a Reiki session?
A. The date of the session and the service provided
B. The general Reiki approach or treatment sequence used
C. Therapist-reported diagnosis
D. Any modifications made during the session
Course Author
About the Instructor
Dr. Melissa Dawahare, NMD, RN
Melissa Dawahare, NMD, RN, is a naturopathic medical doctor and a registered nurse with 30 years of experience in the medical field. She is a graduate of the University of Iowa College of Nursing and Sonoran University of Health Sciences, formerly the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona. Dr. Dawahare is the author of several of our continuing education courses including Acupressure Basics, Essential Oils Overview, Massage and Migraines, and Massage and Fibromyalgia Syndrome.
