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Kenyoku (Reiki Dry Bath): Everything you should know [Beginner Friendly]

“Not all baths require water; some cleanse the soul, like the ethereal embrace of Kenyoku.” – Garry Malone

What is Kenyoku, or Dry Bath?

In Reiki, Kenyoku, also known as “Dry Bath,” is a technique used to cleanse and release negative or stagnant energy from the practitioner’s energy field. It is often performed before and after giving a Reiki treatment or engaging in energy work, but I like to use this technique throughout the say as a simple way to clear negative energy.

The Kenyoku technique involves symbolic and intentional movements where the practitioner uses their hands to brush or “wipe” their body and energy field. The intention behind this practice is to remove any energetic residue or blockages that may have accumulated and to promote a sense of energetic balance and clarity.

While the term “Dry Bath” might suggest a physical cleansing, Kenyoku is primarily focused on the energetic aspect, helping practitioners maintain their own energy balance and prevent potential energy imbalances that can occur when working closely with others or dealing with various stressors.

The Kenyoku is an important component in the Hatsurei-ho meditation. But is also a practice that can stand alone, to cleanse the aura.

***Pin for Later: Kenyoku Reiki Dry Bath***

How to perform the Kenyoku technique

Remember that Kenyoku is a practice that involves intention and visualization. The physical movements are symbolic of the energetic cleansing process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform the Kenyoku technique:

Preparation: Find a quiet and comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed. You can either sit or stand; choose a position that feels natural to you. If you are standing, stand comfortably with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms relaxed by your sides.

Centering: Take a few deep breaths to relax and center yourself. Close your eyes if it helps you connect with your inner awareness.
Intention: Set a clear intention for the Kenyoku practice. You can silently affirm something like, “I cleanse and release any stagnant or negative energy for my highest good.”
Brushing Motion: Raise your right hand and place it across your left shoulder.Use a brushing motion to move your hand down across your chest and stomach and finish at the right hip. The motion is like “wiping” away any energetic residue. As you do this, imagine that you are releasing any negative or stagnant energy from your energy field. Repeat on the other side with your left hand starting on your right shoulder.
Wipe Away: When your hands reach your hip, let your arms continue the motion down and away from your body.
Shake Off: Gently shake your hands, as if you are shaking off any remaining energy that you’ve released.
Sweep Your Arms: Now extend your left arm out by your side and place our right hand on your left shoulder. Brush your hand down your arm all the way to the finger tips. When your hands reach your fingertips, let your hand continue the motion down and away from your body. Gently shake your hands, as if you are shaking off any remaining energy that you’ve released. Now repeat this step on the other side: extend your right arm out by your side and place your left hand on your right shoulder, and sweep downwards.
Repeat if Desired: You can repeat the brushing motion a few times, depending on your intuition and how you feel. Some practitioners find it effective to do this three times, while others might do it more or fewer times.
Closing Breath: After you’ve completed the technique, take a final deep breath, and as you exhale, imagine yourself surrounded by a protective and positive energy field of bright white light.
Thankfulness: Bring your hands together at your heart center in a prayer position. Take a moment to express gratitude for the cleansing and balancing effects of the Kenyoku technique.

The Reiki Kenyoku practice can be personalized based on your intuition and needs, so feel free to modify it in a way that resonates with you.

“Kenyoku is the art of letting go, where the hands lead the energy, and the spirit follows.” – Garry Malone

What to expect from a Kenyoku (Dry Bath) Practice?

As with any energy healing practice, your personal experience may vary. Some people might feel a sense of release or lightness, while others might not notice immediate effects. Consistent practice and a mindful approach can contribute to the overall benefits of this technique. Here are some common sensations and experiences that individuals might report during and after a Kenyoku session:

During Kenyoku:

Sensations of Energy Movement: Some people might feel subtle sensations of warmth, tingling, or gentle vibrations in their hands, arms, or other parts of the body as they perform the Kenyoku movements. These sensations can be interpreted as the movement of energy.
Emotional Release: It’s possible that during Kenyoku, you might experience emotions rising to the surface. This can include feelings of release, relaxation, or even emotions that were previously suppressed.
Calmness and Relaxation: Many practitioners report feeling a sense of calmness and relaxation during Kenyoku, similar to the state achieved during meditation or deep breathing exercises.
Heightened Awareness: Some individuals might become more aware of their own energy and the subtle sensations within their body as they engage in the intentional movements.
Connection with Intuition: Kenyoku can sometimes enhance a person’s intuitive abilities or their sense of connection to their inner self.

After Kenyoku:

Lightness and Clarity: After practicing Kenyoku, some people report feeling lighter and clearer, as if they have released energetic heaviness or blockages.
Energetic Balance: Individuals often describe a sense of energetic balance and alignment, as if their energy centers (chakras) have been harmonized.
Reduced Stress: Many practitioners experience reduced stress and a greater sense of relaxation after performing Kenyoku.
Improved Mood: Engaging in energy healing practices like Kenyoku can uplift one’s mood and promote a sense of well-being.
Groundedness: Some individuals might feel more grounded and connected to the present moment after practicing Kenyoku.
Heightened Sensitivity: You might become more attuned to subtle energy shifts and sensations in your body as you go about your day.

It’s important to approach Kenyoku with an open mind and without specific expectations. Everyone’s experience is unique, and what you feel can depend on factors such as your current state of mind, your sensitivity to energy, and your level of relaxation. If you don’t notice any immediate sensations or changes, that’s also okay. Consistent practice and mindfulness can enhance your connection to the practice over time.

If you’re new to Kenyoku or energy healing practices, consider journaling your experiences after each session. This can help you track any shifts, patterns, or changes that you observe over time.

What are the benefits of the Kenyoku practice

The Kenyoku technique is a cleansing and purification technique where energy rather than water is used. It is believed to offer several potential benefits within the context of energy healing and holistic well-being. Here are some potential benefits that practitioners associate with Kenyoku:

Energetic Cleansing: Kenyoku is thought to help cleanse the energy field and release any negative or stagnant energy that may have accumulated. This can promote a sense of energetic balance and harmony.
Stress Relief: Engaging in the Kenyoku technique can be a form of relaxation and stress relief. The intentional movements and deep breaths involved can help calm the mind and body, reducing stress and tension.
Energetic Alignment: Practitioners often use Kenyoku to realign their own energy and restore balance. It’s believed that the movements can help realign the subtle energy centers (chakras) and pathways (meridians) in the body.
Mind-Body Connection: The practice of Kenyoku involves a mindful and intentional approach to energy healing. This can enhance the awareness of the mind-body connection, helping individuals become more attuned to their own energy and well-being.
Preparation and Closure: Many practitioners use Kenyoku as a way to prepare themselves for energy work, meditation, or Reiki sessions. It’s also used as a closing technique after energy work to release any residual energy and transition back to a balanced state.
Promotes Flow of Energy: Kenyoku is believed to help remove energetic blockages, allowing the energy to flow more freely throughout the body. This improved flow is thought to support overall well-being.
Energetic Hygiene: Just as we maintain physical hygiene to keep our bodies clean, some practitioners view Kenyoku as a form of energetic hygiene to keep their energy field clear and vibrant.
Enhanced Intuition: Regular practice of Kenyoku might help some individuals develop a heightened sense of intuition and sensitivity to energy shifts.

It’s important to approach Kenyoku and similar energy healing techniques with an open mind and a willingness to explore your own experiences. The benefits you might derive from the practice could be personal and unique to you.

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