I have traveled 3 times to Sedona. Each time, I meet the most interesting, kind people, enjoy stimulating, synchronous experiences, and … come across many ‘heart’ rocks. ‘Welcomed to Sedona’ by an Owl. I first traveled to Sedona in April 2004, with three reiki colleagues and one of their daughters. As we turned onto Route 89A that leads to Sedona, an owl flew across our windshield, as if to welcome us. While there, we explored the natural red rock formations and also Native American Culture. Daily hikes among the ancient red rock formations was both reflective and exhilarating.
‘The Circle of Life.’ One morning, I woke our group up before dawn so we could enjoy the remnants of the night sky and hike with the rising sun. Hiking among ancient red rock formation, I came upon a natural circle of rocks. For Native Americans, the circle is a sacred symbol and one that exists in daily life, in natural and man-made forms. The ‘circle of life’ represents every aspect of life coming together as a whole. It in this circle that I chose to offer Reiki Reiju (attunement) to the member of our group that was a newcomer to Usui Reiki Ryohō; the Japanese Healing Method/Art. Offering one Reiju at sunrise and one at sunset, after offering the second Reiju I opened my eyes. Circling above us was a hawk, and just outside the circle stood a coyote. Animal totems are important to the Native American cultures, and somehow these sightings seemed significant.
While there, we also attended a Native American Flute Concert. The spiritual and healing sound of the flute echoing in the canyons of Arizona moved through my heart and soul. It was difficult to leave Sedona, and I knew one day I would return. Little did I realize, I would be back thirteen years later for a presentation on reiki. Nor did I know that this year I would meet and have the opportunity to hear two amazing Native American flute players.
April 21017, I returned to Arizona to attend the 2nd International Integrative Nursing Symposium in Tucson Arizona to present a poster – ‘Bringing Holism to the Bedside: the Emerging role of ‘Reiki Ryohō’ (Hands-on Healing Method) in the Rehabilitation Setting.’ Taking a side trip to Sedona before the symposium, I once again felt the magnetic pull in Sedona as I had many years before. This time when turning onto Highway 89A, I was welcomed by a hawk flying in front of my car.
Visiting the Buddhist Stupa and Peace Park, I came across many heart rocks and other items left by visitors, in memory and prayer. Buddhist prayer flags blowing in the wind carry these prayers beyond Sedona. The sound of chimes played by gentle breezes made reflection and mediation easy.
A Request to Teach Reiki – Some attendees of the symposium asked if I would teach them reiki. So, after the symposium I returned to Sedona to explore this idea and find a venue for teaching. Once again, enjoying hiking and having interesting, synchronous experiences and encounters. One local I met told me where I could find the best sunset view, without crowds of tourists. While there meditating, there was a powerful windstorm followed by a beautiful double rainbow; seemingly, a validation of my thoughts on returning to teach Reiki Ryoho in Sedona.
‘Full Circle’ – I am again returning to Sedona. This time, to offer a ‘Reiki Training and Retreat’ November 14 – 18. I look forward to sharing this Bounty of Nature with others. Where white clouds dancing in a bluebird sky, provide a backdrop for ancient red rock formations. Cool, gently flowing streams create soothing sounds that allow for easy meditation. With clarity of mind and focus, the senses stimulated by beautiful nature … one experiences inner peace and calm.
Contact Us for more information about reiki and the November Sedona ‘Reiki Training and Retreat.’