Becoming Our Own Village Written by: Kelly L. McCarthy, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
As infants, we needed to rely on others for our needs to be met. Whether it was a physical need or an emotional need did not matter. We were incapable of deciphering what we were experiencing at any given moment so expectedly needed support from those that did understand. Helpless and unaware as to anything other than what our caretakers thought was best for us whether be it parents, grandparents, foster parents or any other guardian of our wellbeing. We were taken care of best they could with what they knew.
As toddlers, we began to explore our surroundings wanting nothing more than to try new things on our own. We were persistent and often frustrated due to lack of understanding or being told we couldn’t when often we felt we could. We did not have the emotional intelligence at that stage in our life to comprehend or navigate our feelings or the experiences we were having, we just knew we were having them. We still required guidance from others to assist us in confirming that our needs were being met even when unsure as to what they were. Everything from what to wear, what to eat, how to do things, how not to do things created an understanding of only what we learned to be right and wrong through our filtered experiences. We would battle against certain things and agree with ease to others. During this time we were learning, we were expanding our boundaries and growing emotionally while beliefs were being instilled within us as we still relied on others for answers and confirmations.
As pre-teens and teenagers, we observe from a totally different perspective believing we know what is right for us, hearing our own thoughts more loudly, testing our boundaries, our beliefs, society's beliefs, and pushing back against opinions and ideas sometimes just for the sake of pushing. Not necessarily because we think they are wrong but more because we are trying to find what is right for us. We are expected to understand more, do more, and be more after years of having all our needs met without the most important asset needed to survive on our own. How to listen to and learn to trust our own intuition. At this stage there is still so much uncertainty, so much chaos of thought vs feeling vs reaction that confirmation is still often required for us to feel connected, to understand. We are still seeking answers to our questions, sometimes uncertain of the actual question itself. We still have needs but at this age they can become more confusing as to what they are. Do we still want or need physical touch to help us navigate our sadness? Do we still want or need to hug people upon saying hello? Do we really want or need to have our parents kiss us and say I love you in front of our friends? Do we want or need others' opinions before making a decision? Do they really know what’s best for us? Are we capable at this age to start becoming our own village? Ask yourself how many times you requested for your parents to stop doing something that made you uncomfortable such as one of the examples above only for them to say “no” or make an excuse as to why they still would thus creating doubt in your mind as to if what you needed or wanted was worthy.
At 18 we are considered adults. We are independent, supposedly able to make adult decisions concerning our lives yet still seek confirmation from trusted people of what that looks like due to the years of being told no, the years of feeling one way but being told to feel another. Wanting to say something yet holding our tongue because someone else felt it wasn’t appropriate for us to say something. Looking for outside validation of who we are supposed to be as we were never given the full freedom to figure it out on our own. Our needs were so met that they left us unmet. We aimlessly wander into our adult lives continuously looking for approval, for feedback, for answers to our still unanswered questions, our thoughts racing with no real understanding of how to slow them down or better yet stop them completely. We call upon our parents, our friends, we seek out mentors and in some cases spiritual gurus hoping for the holy grail of all embodied enlightenment only to find out what we should have been taught from birth. Go Within.
This is what it means to become your own village. To understand that having support and confirmation from others is helpful and feels good but only until you are able to be in stillness with yourself can you find the answers meant for you. No one knows you but you. Others have thoughts, opinions, and ideas but those are not yours and are often derived from personal experiences meant for them. They should never be the defining answer to any of your questions. Sit in stillness, ask the question, hear the answer and trust it. Know that the first thought you have is always the right one and anything after that usually derives from fear. Learning to connect with yourself on a deeper level is how you learn to become your own village. We can’t wait for others to come rescue us from ourselves, or cheer our latest victory, hold our hand during the tough spots, or navigate our next move. Sometimes YOU is all YOU have and knowing this can actually deepen your relationship to yourself. When we rely on others we forget that we have everything we already need within us. Learning to trust our own power and inner wisdom in place of always looking on the outside for support creates the most important connection we can have….the one with ourselves.
As infants, we needed to rely on others for our needs to be met. Whether it was a physical need or an emotional need did not matter. We were incapable of deciphering what we were experiencing at any given moment so expectedly needed support from those that did understand. Helpless and unaware as to anything other than what our caretakers thought was best for us whether be it parents, grandparents, foster parents or any other guardian of our wellbeing. We were taken care of best they could with what they knew.
As toddlers, we began to explore our surroundings wanting nothing more than to try new things on our own. We were persistent and often frustrated due to lack of understanding or being told we couldn’t when often we felt we could. We did not have the emotional intelligence at that stage in our life to comprehend or navigate our feelings or the experiences we were having, we just knew we were having them. We still required guidance from others to assist us in confirming that our needs were being met even when unsure as to what they were. Everything from what to wear, what to eat, how to do things, how not to do things created an understanding of only what we learned to be right and wrong through our filtered experiences. We would battle against certain things and agree with ease to others. During this time we were learning, we were expanding our boundaries and growing emotionally while beliefs were being instilled within us as we still relied on others for answers and confirmations.
As pre-teens and teenagers, we observe from a totally different perspective believing we know what is right for us, hearing our own thoughts more loudly, testing our boundaries, our beliefs, society's beliefs, and pushing back against opinions and ideas sometimes just for the sake of pushing. Not necessarily because we think they are wrong but more because we are trying to find what is right for us. We are expected to understand more, do more, and be more after years of having all our needs met without the most important asset needed to survive on our own. How to listen to and learn to trust our own intuition. At this stage there is still so much uncertainty, so much chaos of thought vs feeling vs reaction that confirmation is still often required for us to feel connected, to understand. We are still seeking answers to our questions, sometimes uncertain of the actual question itself. We still have needs but at this age they can become more confusing as to what they are. Do we still want or need physical touch to help us navigate our sadness? Do we still want or need to hug people upon saying hello? Do we really want or need to have our parents kiss us and say I love you in front of our friends? Do we want or need others' opinions before making a decision? Do they really know what’s best for us? Are we capable at this age to start becoming our own village? Ask yourself how many times you requested for your parents to stop doing something that made you uncomfortable such as one of the examples above only for them to say “no” or make an excuse as to why they still would thus creating doubt in your mind as to if what you needed or wanted was worthy.
At 18 we are considered adults. We are independent, supposedly able to make adult decisions concerning our lives yet still seek confirmation from trusted people of what that looks like due to the years of being told no, the years of feeling one way but being told to feel another. Wanting to say something yet holding our tongue because someone else felt it wasn’t appropriate for us to say something. Looking for outside validation of who we are supposed to be as we were never given the full freedom to figure it out on our own. Our needs were so met that they left us unmet. We aimlessly wander into our adult lives continuously looking for approval, for feedback, for answers to our still unanswered questions, our thoughts racing with no real understanding of how to slow them down or better yet stop them completely. We call upon our parents, our friends, we seek out mentors and in some cases spiritual gurus hoping for the holy grail of all embodied enlightenment only to find out what we should have been taught from birth. Go Within.
This is what it means to become your own village. To understand that having support and confirmation from others is helpful and feels good but only until you are able to be in stillness with yourself can you find the answers meant for you. No one knows you but you. Others have thoughts, opinions, and ideas but those are not yours and are often derived from personal experiences meant for them. They should never be the defining answer to any of your questions. Sit in stillness, ask the question, hear the answer and trust it. Know that the first thought you have is always the right one and anything after that usually derives from fear. Learning to connect with yourself on a deeper level is how you learn to become your own village. We can’t wait for others to come rescue us from ourselves, or cheer our latest victory, hold our hand during the tough spots, or navigate our next move. Sometimes YOU is all YOU have and knowing this can actually deepen your relationship to yourself. When we rely on others we forget that we have everything we already need within us. Learning to trust our own power and inner wisdom in place of always looking on the outside for support creates the most important connection we can have….the one with ourselves.
Universal Energy — What is it and How Does it Affect You?Written by: Kelly L. McCarthy, Executive Contributor
The quote by Maya Angelou says it best. “As we know better, we do better, and as we do better, we help create space for others to do the same. That in itself is the simple definition of universal energy and how it works. Going deeper is to understand each of us is a unique energetic frequency born into a specific fate that can become conscious enough in our awareness to create our true destiny. It is learning to live as our energy and not just during a meditative practice of it with full awareness of our frequency and how it affects every single being on the planet, whether you are conscious of it or not. When we learn to identify, understand, and harness our energetic frequency, we can help create the space for others to do the same, just as Maya speaks of.
Here is an example of energetic frequencies and how they affect others. Imagine having a productive day at work. Everything is running smoothly, everyone is happy, and suddenly, the computer system crashes, leaving everyone at a complete standstill in their jobs.
Some people will immediately react in anger and frustration, while others panic about a deadline or anxious about all the unknowns related to the crash.
Then some may see it as an unexpected welcomed break in their day where they can get up, move around and stretch their bodies understanding it’s just a glitch and not the end of the world.
Those not understanding their frequency and how to harness it will not only cause more anxiety and stress for themselves, but they will unconsciously share it with others through the words they speak, their tone of voice, and even their body language, unaware of the deep imprint and impact they are leaving.
Still unconscious to their frequency, they run errands after work taking their frustrations out on someone who may have pulled out in front of them or was driving slower than they would have liked now gripping the steering wheel tightly and cursing loudly at literally no one that can hear them and the frequency is becoming frantic. They stop at the store for a few things and what they need is out of stock, and of course, they picked the wrong line because they always do so are tapping their foot visibly annoyed imprinting on every person they come in contact with. As they walk through the front door finally home after the day, they have had believing it’s safe and they can relax and unwind. They see chaos upon opening the door.
Kids' shoes and backpacks are on the floor blocking the hallway, the kitchen is a mess, and the milk was left out yet again. As the kids come running in to hug them instead of embracing the moment and them, they scream, leaving the children stunned, scared and confused, imprinting and impacting them with an energy that has nothing to do with them.
The children’s frequency has now been altered, and their behavior, words, and actions will not only stay within them but then pass on to the next, maybe at school or maybe back to the parent, a sibling, or even a pet.
And unbeknownst to the person with the frantic energy they have also imprinted on the people at work, the people in traffic they honked and cursed at, the people in the grocery store watching them impatiently standing in line rolling their eyes and the ripple goes on and on all from one person unaware of their energetic frequency.
Now take a moment to think of the office where it all began and how many people left with that same frequency imprinting and impacting others.
Now think of the thousands of businesses this is happening in every single day.
Lastly, take a moment to think of the world and all the situations that are happening daily where the energy of others is affecting others.
The ripple effect is daunting, without adding the animal kingdom and the planet to the conversation yet. Then we have the person who has connected to and understands their frequency. They are more aware of how they are at any given moment, able to see, accept, be in and shift the thought, feeling, or situation, remembering the key to creating and staying in balance is in the awareness.
When we are in balance, everything around us is easier to balance, bringing us back to the statement, “as we know better, we do better.”
The energetic frequency this person harnesses spreads more awareness, understanding, compassion, and happiness much more frequently. However, they can still get caught up in their negative energy, their ability to recognize it and move through it easier and faster than those with no understanding at all.
Many live as though life is happening to them, continuously caught up in the linear details of life as they perceive it through the filter of their own beliefs without the understanding they are creating these experiences through their frequency.
Life is actually happening as us, through us and every single experience is one we have asked for whether we are conscious of it or not. To live intentionally through your energy, you need to hold space for yourself and others with compassion, love, empathy, and understanding for both your paths as you find your way, even if it’s different from each other with no judgment.
Everyone learns differently, at their own pace, and it is not up to us to choose another path at any time. It is our responsibility to show up as the best version of ourselves every day.
Through awareness, we can learn to harness our energy releasing the ego, and live through our conscious self as a mirror for others to see themselves within. We all leave an energetic footprint and how we choose to walk makes a difference.
Follow Kelly on Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin and visit her website for more info.
Kelly L. McCarthy, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Kelly McCarthy is an expert in understanding energetic frequencies and how they impact the world, whether consciously or unconsciously. As a former restaurant owner and mother of two, she was caught in the frantic energy of always trying to stay one step ahead, struggling to juggle a personal and professional life with the need to slow down. After a hospital stay the clinical world would call a full body breakdown, Kelly saw it as a breakthrough where she learned from a variety of modalities the power of harnessing Universal Energy. As a spiritual leader in the holistic community, she was called to create her business, Beyond Words N Wisdom, sharing her knowledge through speaking, teaching, classes, and energy sessions. With clarity and compassion, her clients learn to identify and use their intentional energetic footprint to leave legacies that matter.
The quote by Maya Angelou says it best. “As we know better, we do better, and as we do better, we help create space for others to do the same. That in itself is the simple definition of universal energy and how it works. Going deeper is to understand each of us is a unique energetic frequency born into a specific fate that can become conscious enough in our awareness to create our true destiny. It is learning to live as our energy and not just during a meditative practice of it with full awareness of our frequency and how it affects every single being on the planet, whether you are conscious of it or not. When we learn to identify, understand, and harness our energetic frequency, we can help create the space for others to do the same, just as Maya speaks of.
Here is an example of energetic frequencies and how they affect others. Imagine having a productive day at work. Everything is running smoothly, everyone is happy, and suddenly, the computer system crashes, leaving everyone at a complete standstill in their jobs.
Some people will immediately react in anger and frustration, while others panic about a deadline or anxious about all the unknowns related to the crash.
Then some may see it as an unexpected welcomed break in their day where they can get up, move around and stretch their bodies understanding it’s just a glitch and not the end of the world.
Those not understanding their frequency and how to harness it will not only cause more anxiety and stress for themselves, but they will unconsciously share it with others through the words they speak, their tone of voice, and even their body language, unaware of the deep imprint and impact they are leaving.
Still unconscious to their frequency, they run errands after work taking their frustrations out on someone who may have pulled out in front of them or was driving slower than they would have liked now gripping the steering wheel tightly and cursing loudly at literally no one that can hear them and the frequency is becoming frantic. They stop at the store for a few things and what they need is out of stock, and of course, they picked the wrong line because they always do so are tapping their foot visibly annoyed imprinting on every person they come in contact with. As they walk through the front door finally home after the day, they have had believing it’s safe and they can relax and unwind. They see chaos upon opening the door.
Kids' shoes and backpacks are on the floor blocking the hallway, the kitchen is a mess, and the milk was left out yet again. As the kids come running in to hug them instead of embracing the moment and them, they scream, leaving the children stunned, scared and confused, imprinting and impacting them with an energy that has nothing to do with them.
The children’s frequency has now been altered, and their behavior, words, and actions will not only stay within them but then pass on to the next, maybe at school or maybe back to the parent, a sibling, or even a pet.
And unbeknownst to the person with the frantic energy they have also imprinted on the people at work, the people in traffic they honked and cursed at, the people in the grocery store watching them impatiently standing in line rolling their eyes and the ripple goes on and on all from one person unaware of their energetic frequency.
Now take a moment to think of the office where it all began and how many people left with that same frequency imprinting and impacting others.
Now think of the thousands of businesses this is happening in every single day.
Lastly, take a moment to think of the world and all the situations that are happening daily where the energy of others is affecting others.
The ripple effect is daunting, without adding the animal kingdom and the planet to the conversation yet. Then we have the person who has connected to and understands their frequency. They are more aware of how they are at any given moment, able to see, accept, be in and shift the thought, feeling, or situation, remembering the key to creating and staying in balance is in the awareness.
When we are in balance, everything around us is easier to balance, bringing us back to the statement, “as we know better, we do better.”
The energetic frequency this person harnesses spreads more awareness, understanding, compassion, and happiness much more frequently. However, they can still get caught up in their negative energy, their ability to recognize it and move through it easier and faster than those with no understanding at all.
Many live as though life is happening to them, continuously caught up in the linear details of life as they perceive it through the filter of their own beliefs without the understanding they are creating these experiences through their frequency.
Life is actually happening as us, through us and every single experience is one we have asked for whether we are conscious of it or not. To live intentionally through your energy, you need to hold space for yourself and others with compassion, love, empathy, and understanding for both your paths as you find your way, even if it’s different from each other with no judgment.
Everyone learns differently, at their own pace, and it is not up to us to choose another path at any time. It is our responsibility to show up as the best version of ourselves every day.
Through awareness, we can learn to harness our energy releasing the ego, and live through our conscious self as a mirror for others to see themselves within. We all leave an energetic footprint and how we choose to walk makes a difference.
Follow Kelly on Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin and visit her website for more info.
Kelly L. McCarthy, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Kelly McCarthy is an expert in understanding energetic frequencies and how they impact the world, whether consciously or unconsciously. As a former restaurant owner and mother of two, she was caught in the frantic energy of always trying to stay one step ahead, struggling to juggle a personal and professional life with the need to slow down. After a hospital stay the clinical world would call a full body breakdown, Kelly saw it as a breakthrough where she learned from a variety of modalities the power of harnessing Universal Energy. As a spiritual leader in the holistic community, she was called to create her business, Beyond Words N Wisdom, sharing her knowledge through speaking, teaching, classes, and energy sessions. With clarity and compassion, her clients learn to identify and use their intentional energetic footprint to leave legacies that matter.
THE BENEFITS OF REIKI FOR ANIMALS REDUCE STRESS, HEAL TRAUMA, EASE TRANSITIONS
NOVEMBER 25, 2019 BY KELLY L. MCCARTHY
ANIMAL REIKI- Reiki itself as a healing modality has been used with people for over a century but the use of Reiki with animals has just recently become more prevalent. Some practitioners have been offering Reiki to their own animals over the years, but now we are starting to see practitioners specializing in Animal Reiki as their desired profession. Because of its gentle nature, Reiki is a beneficial practice able to be used with all animals, no matter their size or species.
Reiki in Japanese simply means “Spirit Energy”. It is an energetic healing technique that involves the transfer of “chi”, the energy life force within all things to help people, animals and even nature maintain inner balance. This noninvasive, pain-free technique is ideally practiced in a completely stress-free environment.
Since animals are highly sensitive to energy, one cannot “give” an animal Reiki. For this reason, the “Let Animals Lead®"approach was created by Kathleen Prasad, founder of The Animal Reiki Source. This approach allows animals to take part in their own treatments at their own pace, taking what they need as they need it, perhaps even for an issue the practitioner may not even be aware of.
Reiki can be performed hands-on or from a distance. While some animals enjoy human touch during treatments, others prefer to be left to enjoy the energetic space from across the room. Reiki energy is limitless and knows no boundaries, so it is as effective overseas as it is in person. Depending on the issue, there are times where a distance session is a better option for both animal and practitioner.
One example of this is when an animal has suffered a severe trauma or has aggressive tendencies. Reiki can help animals heal from past mental and physical traumas as well as reduce behavioral issues and aggression in animals. Reiki is also extremely supportive in the dying process of animals, allowing them to pass in peace while being held in love as they cross over. This also helps with the loss felt by their humans and can assist in the grieving process. Most importantly, Reiki is a complimentary practice for all other treatments—whether conventional or alternative. It should not be used in place of licensed veterinary care for any reason. Reiki practitioners are non-medical professionals and cannot at any time diagnose or prescribe anything for your pets. Practitioners may offer suggestions, however it is the responsibility of the pet owner to always seek the professional advice and treatment from a licensed veterinarian when needed.
Lastly, if you are ready to invite Reiki into your animal’s life, do not be afraid to ask questions of the practitioner, as not every practitioner will be the right fit for you and your pet. There are different practicing styles of Reiki, just as there are different teaching styles. Some are derived from Japan, while others have found the western style of Reiki to better suit their personal beliefs. Much like an interview, it’s always good to know the practitioner’s lineage (who they trained with), their daily self-practice, what Reiki means to them and any expectations you may have of your pets’ sessions, as well as policies, payments and length of treatment.
Being able to have an open conversation prior to your animal’s treatment is the best way to create the energetic space you want and need between you, the practitioner and your pets, to feel safe and connected along your Reiki journey together.
Kelly L. McCarthy is an animal Reiki practitioner, communicator and educator who travels throughout Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts, and offers distance Reiki from her home in Litchfield County. She is a foster mom for “For The Love of Lab Rescue” and volunteers her services to licensed rescues for animals awaiting their forever homes. Connect at www.beyondwordsnwisdom.com
NOVEMBER 25, 2019 BY KELLY L. MCCARTHY
ANIMAL REIKI- Reiki itself as a healing modality has been used with people for over a century but the use of Reiki with animals has just recently become more prevalent. Some practitioners have been offering Reiki to their own animals over the years, but now we are starting to see practitioners specializing in Animal Reiki as their desired profession. Because of its gentle nature, Reiki is a beneficial practice able to be used with all animals, no matter their size or species.
Reiki in Japanese simply means “Spirit Energy”. It is an energetic healing technique that involves the transfer of “chi”, the energy life force within all things to help people, animals and even nature maintain inner balance. This noninvasive, pain-free technique is ideally practiced in a completely stress-free environment.
Since animals are highly sensitive to energy, one cannot “give” an animal Reiki. For this reason, the “Let Animals Lead®"approach was created by Kathleen Prasad, founder of The Animal Reiki Source. This approach allows animals to take part in their own treatments at their own pace, taking what they need as they need it, perhaps even for an issue the practitioner may not even be aware of.
Reiki can be performed hands-on or from a distance. While some animals enjoy human touch during treatments, others prefer to be left to enjoy the energetic space from across the room. Reiki energy is limitless and knows no boundaries, so it is as effective overseas as it is in person. Depending on the issue, there are times where a distance session is a better option for both animal and practitioner.
One example of this is when an animal has suffered a severe trauma or has aggressive tendencies. Reiki can help animals heal from past mental and physical traumas as well as reduce behavioral issues and aggression in animals. Reiki is also extremely supportive in the dying process of animals, allowing them to pass in peace while being held in love as they cross over. This also helps with the loss felt by their humans and can assist in the grieving process. Most importantly, Reiki is a complimentary practice for all other treatments—whether conventional or alternative. It should not be used in place of licensed veterinary care for any reason. Reiki practitioners are non-medical professionals and cannot at any time diagnose or prescribe anything for your pets. Practitioners may offer suggestions, however it is the responsibility of the pet owner to always seek the professional advice and treatment from a licensed veterinarian when needed.
Lastly, if you are ready to invite Reiki into your animal’s life, do not be afraid to ask questions of the practitioner, as not every practitioner will be the right fit for you and your pet. There are different practicing styles of Reiki, just as there are different teaching styles. Some are derived from Japan, while others have found the western style of Reiki to better suit their personal beliefs. Much like an interview, it’s always good to know the practitioner’s lineage (who they trained with), their daily self-practice, what Reiki means to them and any expectations you may have of your pets’ sessions, as well as policies, payments and length of treatment.
Being able to have an open conversation prior to your animal’s treatment is the best way to create the energetic space you want and need between you, the practitioner and your pets, to feel safe and connected along your Reiki journey together.
Kelly L. McCarthy is an animal Reiki practitioner, communicator and educator who travels throughout Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts, and offers distance Reiki from her home in Litchfield County. She is a foster mom for “For The Love of Lab Rescue” and volunteers her services to licensed rescues for animals awaiting their forever homes. Connect at www.beyondwordsnwisdom.com
ANIMAL REIKI: SPIRITUAL COMPASSION FOR ALL CREATURES
APR 23, 2020 BY RENEE GREGORY MALO
Article Mentions Kelly McCarthy
As natural disasters and environmental damage unfold around the world, awareness and acceptance of animal Reiki as a spiritual and healing modality is growing. Global concern continues to mount for the well-being of fellow humans, animal populations, and the planet.
There is a movement toward building a greater connection with household pets and a desire to help animals in difficult circumstances. Reiki’s compassionate spirit and self-healing benefits meet a need for people who want to help in a positive way.
The Reiki modality was founded in Japan by Mikao Usui in the 1920s. The philosophy of the original Usui Reiki method was based on the simple, traditional Japanese techniques of meditation and mindfulness. By practicing Reiki, one learns how to intentionally create a gentle, open space of balance to invite healing, spiritual cultivation and enlightenment. When Reiki arrived in the U.S. in the 1930s, an element of human touch was added to the teachings and it became what we know today as human Reiki.
In 2006, Kathleen Prasad, the founder of Animal Reiki Source, learned of the original Usui philosophy. She found that animals were highly sensitive to energy work and realized how the no-touch techniques supported the healing experience on their terms. She developed the Let Animals Lead method and began teaching its simple meditative and hands-off techniques. Today in Connecticut, the Let Animals Lead method of animal Reiki is being practiced in homes, farms and shelters.
Animal Reiki Training
Kelly McCarthy is an animal Reiki practitioner, educator and speaker. She has taught dozens of classes, provided hundreds of animal Reiki sessions to clients and spoken at numerous public events throughout Connecticut. With her Native American heritage, McCarthy was raised with a deep connection to Mother Earth and a desire to work with animals. Animal Reiki fit in perfectly. She first learned about animal Reiki from a friend who completed his certification and suggested that she do it, too. “After having a conversation with Kathleen Prasad,” she says, “everything lit up for me. I knew what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.” McCarthy says the animals’ human companions also benefit from the animal Reiki experience. “People allow themselves to become vulnerable, relax and open up when they are with their animals. In this moment, they give themselves permission to heal and grow. Through animal Reiki, I help humans and their pets tap into their inner light and their self-healing journey together.”
Practices at Flamig Farm
Nevin Christensen was born and raised on Flamig Farm in Simsbury, owned by his family for generations. He grew up playing and working outside. A few years after returning home with a Master’s degree in environmental science, the family began a summer camp program for children to experience caring for farm animals and taking care of the land. The farm became a place of beloved memories for thousands of children.
One day, Christensen’s wife Julie brought home two sheep that needed a new home. They enjoyed having them so much, Julie continued to adopt more animals to live out their days on the joyful farm. Today the farm is home to goats, pigs, horses, cows, alpacas, emus, donkeys, peacocks, guinea pigs and more. The Christensens strongly believe in the healthful effects of positivity and optimism, and they invite the public to visit the farm animals to relax and relieve stress.
In the fall of 2019, Kelly McCarthy reached out to Julie, her childhood neighbor. McCarthy told her about animal Reiki and how it could benefit their animals; the Christensens agreed to host an animal Reiki certification class at their farm. Initially, they weren’t going to take the class themselves, but their curiosity led the couple to sign up for Animal Reiki Level I Certification, and they have been pleased with the results.
Nevin and Julie promote animal Reiki on their farm to the public through their website. They like the idea of students offering Reiki to their animals and allowing the public to observe and ask questions. “I like to have people see alternatives. We need more people to see that they can be healed with universal energy,” says Nevin.
They also incorporate this healing modality into daily life behind the scenes. A lamb was recently born and unable to move his legs. Previously in a situation like this, the Christensens would feel there was nothing they could do. Nevin says that with his Reiki training, “just knowing that if I’m nearby, I can project energy out to the animal. There’s a sense of peace with the animal. There are good vibrations and they are healing.” The lamb was able to stand and walk after a few days and continues to be in good health. McCarthy currently holds all of her certification classes there, with the farm animals benefiting the most from the Reiki. Nevin says, “Kelly has a standing invitation to come to the farm along with her students.”
The Connecticut Humane Society Brings Reiki in
In July 2019, McCarthy was invited to the Connecticut Humane Society headquarters in Newington to give a “Pet Talk” about the benefits of animal Reiki to the employees and volunteers. Theresa Geary, director of operations, says, “We are always looking for things that are new and less mainstream, as long as it fits with our mission.” The Connecticut Humane Society’s veterinary services have included flower and herbal essences for a number of years. McCarthy’s event was well-attended, and 18 employees and volunteers signed up for her Animal Reiki I class in the fall of 2019. Since their training, the students have been practicing the Reiki precepts and offering Reiki to their own animals to improve their skills. Geary says, “I’m familiar with human Reiki, and I wanted to go to this class. I have a cat at home, and whenever I do the animal Reiki meditations, she is all over me and won’t leave me alone.” Geary says the safety of the animals, employees and volunteers is paramount at all times. Before anyone offers Reiki at any of their three shelters, they create a formal program to ensure that best safety practices are in place. “These animals are under a constant state of underlying stress,” says Geary. “We’re always looking for new tools to help animals through our environment. We’re excited about it.”
Animal Reiki Restores Universal Connections
When asked what she enjoys most about animal Reiki, McCarthy says she loves it because of its simplicity. “It’s a beautiful experience,” she says. “Every animal is different, but they all connect the same way on a deeper level. They all feel seen and feel love in that Reiki space. Animals see their person as they are and have pure love for them anyway. In that space, they connect on a deeper level that allows them to learn, grow and heal.”
Renee Gregory Malo is a freelance writer, Human Resources consultant, and Animal Reiki Level II practitioner. She can be reached at [email protected].
APR 23, 2020 BY RENEE GREGORY MALO
Article Mentions Kelly McCarthy
As natural disasters and environmental damage unfold around the world, awareness and acceptance of animal Reiki as a spiritual and healing modality is growing. Global concern continues to mount for the well-being of fellow humans, animal populations, and the planet.
There is a movement toward building a greater connection with household pets and a desire to help animals in difficult circumstances. Reiki’s compassionate spirit and self-healing benefits meet a need for people who want to help in a positive way.
The Reiki modality was founded in Japan by Mikao Usui in the 1920s. The philosophy of the original Usui Reiki method was based on the simple, traditional Japanese techniques of meditation and mindfulness. By practicing Reiki, one learns how to intentionally create a gentle, open space of balance to invite healing, spiritual cultivation and enlightenment. When Reiki arrived in the U.S. in the 1930s, an element of human touch was added to the teachings and it became what we know today as human Reiki.
In 2006, Kathleen Prasad, the founder of Animal Reiki Source, learned of the original Usui philosophy. She found that animals were highly sensitive to energy work and realized how the no-touch techniques supported the healing experience on their terms. She developed the Let Animals Lead method and began teaching its simple meditative and hands-off techniques. Today in Connecticut, the Let Animals Lead method of animal Reiki is being practiced in homes, farms and shelters.
Animal Reiki Training
Kelly McCarthy is an animal Reiki practitioner, educator and speaker. She has taught dozens of classes, provided hundreds of animal Reiki sessions to clients and spoken at numerous public events throughout Connecticut. With her Native American heritage, McCarthy was raised with a deep connection to Mother Earth and a desire to work with animals. Animal Reiki fit in perfectly. She first learned about animal Reiki from a friend who completed his certification and suggested that she do it, too. “After having a conversation with Kathleen Prasad,” she says, “everything lit up for me. I knew what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.” McCarthy says the animals’ human companions also benefit from the animal Reiki experience. “People allow themselves to become vulnerable, relax and open up when they are with their animals. In this moment, they give themselves permission to heal and grow. Through animal Reiki, I help humans and their pets tap into their inner light and their self-healing journey together.”
Practices at Flamig Farm
Nevin Christensen was born and raised on Flamig Farm in Simsbury, owned by his family for generations. He grew up playing and working outside. A few years after returning home with a Master’s degree in environmental science, the family began a summer camp program for children to experience caring for farm animals and taking care of the land. The farm became a place of beloved memories for thousands of children.
One day, Christensen’s wife Julie brought home two sheep that needed a new home. They enjoyed having them so much, Julie continued to adopt more animals to live out their days on the joyful farm. Today the farm is home to goats, pigs, horses, cows, alpacas, emus, donkeys, peacocks, guinea pigs and more. The Christensens strongly believe in the healthful effects of positivity and optimism, and they invite the public to visit the farm animals to relax and relieve stress.
In the fall of 2019, Kelly McCarthy reached out to Julie, her childhood neighbor. McCarthy told her about animal Reiki and how it could benefit their animals; the Christensens agreed to host an animal Reiki certification class at their farm. Initially, they weren’t going to take the class themselves, but their curiosity led the couple to sign up for Animal Reiki Level I Certification, and they have been pleased with the results.
Nevin and Julie promote animal Reiki on their farm to the public through their website. They like the idea of students offering Reiki to their animals and allowing the public to observe and ask questions. “I like to have people see alternatives. We need more people to see that they can be healed with universal energy,” says Nevin.
They also incorporate this healing modality into daily life behind the scenes. A lamb was recently born and unable to move his legs. Previously in a situation like this, the Christensens would feel there was nothing they could do. Nevin says that with his Reiki training, “just knowing that if I’m nearby, I can project energy out to the animal. There’s a sense of peace with the animal. There are good vibrations and they are healing.” The lamb was able to stand and walk after a few days and continues to be in good health. McCarthy currently holds all of her certification classes there, with the farm animals benefiting the most from the Reiki. Nevin says, “Kelly has a standing invitation to come to the farm along with her students.”
The Connecticut Humane Society Brings Reiki in
In July 2019, McCarthy was invited to the Connecticut Humane Society headquarters in Newington to give a “Pet Talk” about the benefits of animal Reiki to the employees and volunteers. Theresa Geary, director of operations, says, “We are always looking for things that are new and less mainstream, as long as it fits with our mission.” The Connecticut Humane Society’s veterinary services have included flower and herbal essences for a number of years. McCarthy’s event was well-attended, and 18 employees and volunteers signed up for her Animal Reiki I class in the fall of 2019. Since their training, the students have been practicing the Reiki precepts and offering Reiki to their own animals to improve their skills. Geary says, “I’m familiar with human Reiki, and I wanted to go to this class. I have a cat at home, and whenever I do the animal Reiki meditations, she is all over me and won’t leave me alone.” Geary says the safety of the animals, employees and volunteers is paramount at all times. Before anyone offers Reiki at any of their three shelters, they create a formal program to ensure that best safety practices are in place. “These animals are under a constant state of underlying stress,” says Geary. “We’re always looking for new tools to help animals through our environment. We’re excited about it.”
Animal Reiki Restores Universal Connections
When asked what she enjoys most about animal Reiki, McCarthy says she loves it because of its simplicity. “It’s a beautiful experience,” she says. “Every animal is different, but they all connect the same way on a deeper level. They all feel seen and feel love in that Reiki space. Animals see their person as they are and have pure love for them anyway. In that space, they connect on a deeper level that allows them to learn, grow and heal.”
Renee Gregory Malo is a freelance writer, Human Resources consultant, and Animal Reiki Level II practitioner. She can be reached at [email protected].