Traditional Reiki uses three main symbols and the addition of a fourth at the master level. There is a lot of information about Reiki online. Reiki has evolved over the years and there are new symbols appearing along with the types of Reiki. Reiki online sites provide information about the Usui or traditional Reiki symbols and this article provides an overview of their meaning. Reiki online resources also provide information about the new Reiki symbols that have evolved more recently.

The first traditional Reiki symbol is called Cho Ku Rei and this symbol brings power to you. It is translated as "Put all the power of the universe here". This Reiki symbol is used at the beginning of every treatment and it serves to boost the Reiki energy flow. To concentrate the energy to a specific area, the symbol can be drawn or visualized. Practitioners of Reiki also use the symbol at the end of a treatment to close and seal the energy.

The second traditional Reiki symbol is called Sei He Ki. This symbol corresponds to emotional healing or mental distress. It translates as "God and humanity become one". In the treatment of emotional, mental problems and addictions, this symbol allows blockages in these areas to be removed. It can be of great use when treating stress, fear, and more. Remember physical problems are usually associated with an emotional or mental source. Reiki practitioners believe that through the treatment of emotional causes of distress, physical ailments may also be treated.

The third traditional Reiki symbol is called Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen. This symbol is the distance symbol. It is translated as "May the Buddha in me connect to the Buddha in you to promote harmony and peace". This symbol can be used to conquer distance in providing a Reiki treatment. This Reiki symbol's use enables you to send Reiki treatments to an individual that is far away from you. This is a powerful Reiki symbol and not taught to students until the second level.