Cho Ku Rei: The Power Symbol
Cho Ku Rei: The Power Symbol
In the heart of Reiki lies a language of sacred symbols, each carrying deep meaning and energetic purpose. One of the most widely used and revered symbols in Reiki is Cho Ku Rei (pronounced “choh-koo-ray”)—often referred to as the Power Symbol.
But what exactly does it mean? How do we use it? And why is it such a cornerstone in Reiki practice?
The Meaning of Cho Ku Rei
Cho Ku Rei roughly translates to:
“Place the power of the universe here.”
At its core, this symbol is a conduit for energy—drawing in universal life force and focusing it with intention. Its spiral design moves inward or outward, depending on how it's drawn, representing either pulling in energy for healing or clearing energy out for release.
The Spiral of Intention
Visually, Cho Ku Rei appears as a vertical line intersected by a spiral. This spiral is more than artistic symbolism—it reflects the natural flow of energy in the universe. The downward line represents divine energy flowing into the physical plane, and the spiral anchors it where healing is needed most.
Practitioners often feel a noticeable shift when invoking this symbol. It’s like turning on a light switch—the Reiki energy becomes brighter, more focused, more alive.
How We Use Cho Ku Rei in Reiki
Here are a few ways Cho Ku Rei is commonly used:
To increase power in a Reiki session—placed over the hands, chakras, or specific areas in need.
To protect and shield—drawn around spaces, objects, or even your own aura.
To cleanse energy—used before or after a session to clear lingering or stagnant energy.
To seal energy—at the end of a treatment, helping to “lock in” the healing effects.
At Project Reiki, we teach students to use Cho Ku Rei not only as a tool but as a prayer in motion. It is a bridge between heaven and earth, between intention and manifestation.
Bringing Cho Ku Rei Into Daily Life
You don’t need to be in session to use this powerful symbol. You can draw it mentally or with your hand:
Before meditating, to anchor your energy.
Around your food or water, to bless and energize it.
Over your doorways, to create a peaceful home.
In moments of fear, fatigue, or chaos, to call in strength and clarity.
When you invoke Cho Ku Rei, you are not commanding energy—you are partnering with it. You are aligning with a universal current that is always available, always loving, always present.
In the Spiral, We Remember
Cho Ku Rei reminds us that energy follows intention. When we move through the world with heart-centered awareness, we become instruments of healing—on the table, in our homes, and to the world at large.
