A Radical Approach to Mastery: Reiki Third Degree (Shinpiden) with Timothy Kocher-Hillmer

One of the most important teachings of Reiki is for practitioners to “get out of their own way.” This means observing how and when our egos show up and humby stepping aside so the Wisdom of Reiki can flow freely. The word “master” is a wake up call to look deeply at the systems and beliefs that subtly and often unknowingly focus our world view. This transforms the path of Reiki into a search to a “mastering” of one's own self. The question of “what calls us as” advanced practitioners is a jumping-off point for this training. During this workshop participants will deepen their connection with Reiki by being initiated at the “Shinpiden level.” We will explore the significance of the symbol added to the Reiki tradition by Hawayo Takata and search for its application and personal meaning. The workshop is an "extended immersion" and designed to create an environment that integrates learning at the levels of Mind, Body and Spirit. There will be a balanced presentation of material in a way that is cognitive yet experiential, esoteric yet grounded. Basic concepts of Reiki will be reviewed: the Reiki Principles, the Symbols of Reiki and the history/lineage of Reiki. Additionally, students will learn more recently discovered “traditional Japanese” Reiki techniques, as well as additional techniques Mikao Usui is known to have shared with some of his students. While Reiki is known as a healing modality, it is also a philosophy (an “operating system”) for approaching daily life. In this course the concept of “shifting the paradigm” as practitioners of health and wellness will be addressed. Methods for caring for the “energy body” will be taught and practiced, along with methods for communicating with clients about the benefits and effects of a Reiki treatment. Participants are asked to find ways to create a "Reiki Community" for the time frame of this workshop and each student/master will be invited to make a practical commitment to self-mastery at the conclusion of the workshop. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing, bring a journal and personal object that represents their intention for themselves at this time in the attunement process. Reiki Third Degree (Shinpiden) is open to anyone who has completed Reiki Second Degree training and has been practicing Reiki, either with themselves & family or with clients, for a substantial period of time. As a prerequisite all attendees are asked to schedule an interview with the instructor. Information will be provided in your confirmation email. Attendees should bring a massage table, a sheet, a blanket, note taking material, a personal item that represents connection, and wear comfortable clothing.

Presenter: Timothy Kocher-Hillmer, LMT, BCTMB, CMBE Since the late 80s Timothy has been facilitating rituals, events and classes for seekers of mental, emotional and spiritual healing. With life-long experience in music and liturgy, he studied voice and musical composition in college, earned his B.S. in Commerce from DePaul University and is a graduate of PSMT. In private practice since 2000 (PA Lic. #MSG003535), Timothy is an Approved Provider (#188) of continuing education with NCBTMB who trained as a Reiki Shinpiden/Teacher and is also certified in Rebirthing. His work with clients focuses on myofascial pain syndrome relief, trauma recovery and emotional balancing. As a certified massage and bodywork educator (CMBE) at the Pittsburgh School of Massage Therapy, Timothy encourages massage therapists and students to pay exquisite attention to the energetics of personal intention and body mechanics. He delights in the dynamics of the classroom and invites students to inwardly dig deeply with curiosity and kindness. As a member of AFMTE’s Diversity, Equity & Belonging Committee, Timothy collaborates with colleagues to envision learning spaces that bravely embody creative justice.