Does the idea of animals leading reiki sound surprising?
Have you ever wondered how ancient practices such as yoga, herbalism, and tai chi were created?
To our evidence-based-oriented society, it can seem quite mysterious that people could develop such profoundly healing methods without access to modern technology. Yet, as I watch my Yorkipoo, Pippi, awaken from her nap and engage in some luxurious stretches, she models for me the perfect “downward-facing dog” pose. So many yoga poses are named for the animals that inspired them. Tai- chi is another discipline that references animals, such as the crane and snake. The earliest yogis and martial artists possessed the wisdom to observe animals and emulate their movements, discovering their immense benefits for humans. If you have ever tried downward dog, cobra, or eagle pose or practiced The Five Animal Frolics, you followed in the wise footsteps of those who let animals lead them to greater health and well-being.
Herbalism also owes a debt of gratitude to the sick and injured animals that sought the healing plants and led the way for the wise women and men who noticed them. Zoopharmacognosy, the formal study of the self-healing practices of animals, is now considered an important source of potential cures for humans, as well.
The 6th Pillar of the Let Animals Lead® method of Animal Reiki states:
“Let Animals Lead® acknowledges and honors each animal as a spiritual teacher and healer in their own right. Practitioners learn to listen and become receptive to their spiritual wisdom and healing gifts.”
I tried many forms of meditation over the past several decades, diligently sitting on my cushion, one eye squeezed shut and the other stealing glances at the timer I had set. Invariably, I would find myself off on mental tangents, usually worrisome ones, alternating with grocery lists. That changed once I began meditating with animals. Whether outdoors walking or curled up in a cozy chair with my Morkie, Francis, it felt so natural to drop into that heart space of compassion and loving energy. Although I had been motivated to learn animal reiki to help animals, there was no denying that the animals were helping me, too. In actuality, they were showing me how to be present in the moment and see the world from a new perspective. I am so grateful to Kathleen Prasad for creating this beautiful method and sharing it with others. It has been life-changing in the best way to discover for myself the truth of Kathleen’s words:
“When we learn that even the tiniest creature can be our teacher, our world will be transformed!”
By Jackie Demeri Costello
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