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Led by Reiki Master Teacher Dr. Tamisha J. Ponder, our certification program upholds the Usui System of Reiki as a deeply intuitive tradition encouraging self-healing, self-discovery, and space holding. Our approach is rooted in education and community.
Usui Reiki Certification Program
Reiki (pronounced RAY-KEY) translates in Japanese to mean “Universal Life Energy.” It is an ancient healing technique, for use on self, others, animals, plants, and the Earth. Reiki has been used for centuries to achieve balance in the mind, body, and spirit and treat physical and emotional imbalances. It is a technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. Benefits include:
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Create a deep state of calm and relaxation
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Inner peace + clarity
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Release emotional blockages
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Relieve stress
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Release muscle tension
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Help relieve pain
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Accelerate healing
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Support the body’s natural ability to heal itself
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Combines well with other healing methods to enhance results
The Usui System of Reiki (Usui Shiki Ryoho) was founded in the late 19th century by Dr. Mikao Usui. Usui Reiki has three levels, each with attunements (meaning your energy is raised to the higher frequency of Reiki energy). Reiki energy can only be channeled by people who have been attuned or initiated by a certified Reiki Master Teacher.
Are you interested in learning this ancient healing practice? Take a look at our courses and join our next Reiki training session. Instructed by Reiki Master Teacher, Dr. Tamisha J. Ponder, you will leave each course with a different level of understanding of the history and application of Reiki, as well as a deepening and cultivation of your energetic gifts.
CERTIFICATION COURSES
Reiki trainings at Sankofa are offered throughout the year to meet you where you are. Level 1 is a 4–6 hour introduction to energy awareness and self-healing. Level 2 deepens your skills over 8–10 hours, while Level 3 includes nearly 20 hours of lecture and demonstration, along with additional practice time to help you embody the work. Each level is paced with care and rooted in connection, so you can grow with confidence and clarity.
Usui Reiki Level One | Self-Healing & Energy Awareness
A foundation for inner connection and embodied care.
Reiki Level One is the beginning of your healing journey—an introduction to the principles and practice of energy healing. This course focuses on self-treatment, energetic awareness, and grounding techniques that support you in reconnecting with your body, breath, and intention. You’ll explore the history and core philosophy of Reiki, learn basic hand positions for treatment, and receive hands-on practice both on yourself and with others in the class.
This training is offered in-studio*, with a virtual option available for those unable to attend in person. Details on our next training below:
Date: Monday, May 26, 2025
Time: 8:30 am - 12:30 pm
Location: In-Studio*
Tuition: $200
Can't attend this date? Click here to be notified of our next Usui Level One training when it becomes available.
Usui Reiki Level Two | Expanding Energy & Sacred Connection
Working with others, distance healing, and deepened intuition.
Reiki Level Two builds upon the self-healing foundation of Level One and is open to any current Level 1 practitioner ready to deepen their knowledge and practice. In this training, students receive Level 2 attunements—opening access to a higher frequency of energy and introducing the use of three traditional Reiki symbols. These tools expand your ability to offer healing to others, both in person and across distance. You’ll deepen your intuitive awareness, explore emotional and energetic healing, and strengthen your connection to the flow of Reiki energy in service to yourself and others. NOTE: If you received your Level 1 with another teacher, please click here to complete our information form.
This course is held virtually on Day One and in-studio on Day Two to support both flexibility and hands-on integration. Details on our next training below:
Day One | Wednesday, June 11, 2025 @ 5-8:30 pm
Day Two | Friday, June 13, 2025 @ 5-8:30 pm
Tuition: $300
Can't attend these dates? Click here to be notified of our next Usui Level Two training when it becomes available.
Usui Reiki Level Three | Mastery, Deepening Practice, Honing Purpose
Embodying mastery, sharing wisdom, and honoring the call to teach.
Our Reiki Level 3 training is a comprehensive and transformational journey for those who desire to become a Reiki Master or teach Reiki. It’s designed to deepen your understanding, refine your skills, and guide you toward your unique path as a practitioner or teacher.
Levels 1 and 2 will be reviewed and student will deepen their knowledge, work toward becoming a Reiki Master and learn how to attune others.
This training emphasizes the sacred art of holding space and helps you explore how Reiki aligns with your personal calling—whether that be teaching, working with specific communities, or integrating Reiki into your existing wellness practice.
With a strong focus on helping you identify your niche, we’ll explore diverse applications of Reiki—from trauma-informed practice, earth-based rituals, and stress management to birthwork, womb support, grief, and major life transitions. You’ll be encouraged to discover where Reiki resonates most deeply in your life and how you feel called to share it—whether in nature, through intuitive facilitation, or in offering comfort and presence in end-of-life care.
Together, we’ll create a nurturing container for practice, reflection, and visioning. You’ll have the opportunity to work with others, receive feedback, and craft a final capstone project that fully embodies your personal Reiki approach. This is more than a certification—it’s a space to ground into your gifts and grow your confidence as a Reiki guide.
Course Meeting Dates:
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Wednesday, July 2, 2025 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm (virtual)
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Wednesday, July 9, 2025 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm (hybrid)
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Wednesday, July 16, 2025 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm (hybrid)
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Wednesday, July 23, 2025 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm (hybrid)
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Wednesday, July 30, 2025 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm (hybrid)
This training is offered hybrid (in-studio with a virtual option available for those unable to attend in person).
Additionally included in this course: self-study (homework assignments, journaling, personal meditation practice); practice sessions; and a private coaching session with Dr. Ponder.
Tuition: $1000 | The cost for Usui Reiki Level 3 Certification is $1,000. To reserve your spot, simply submit a non-refundable $199 deposit. From there, we will help you choose the best payment option for you:
a) Pay the remaining balance in full by June 1st and receive a 10% early registration discount;
b) Pay the full balance on June 15; or
c) Request a two-payment autopay plan to split the remaining balance.
c) Request a three-payment autopay plan to split the remaining balance.
Can't attend these dates? Click here to be notified of our next Usui Level Three training when it becomes available.
REGISTRATION
COURSE DETAILS: Usui Reiki Levels 1 & 2 will be held in-person at our upstairs studio/training facility (if health and safety conditions permit). The program reserves the right to cancel or postpone any training before it begins. In that case students will either be contacted to reschedule, be refunded in full, or given studio credit. If a student can no longer attend a training session, the program will not give any refunds, however, such amount can be applied towards a future training program . If you have any questions, please email us at here or call 240-786-7182.
ABOUT YOUR REIKI MASTER TEACHER:
Dr. Tamisha J. Ponder is a Reiki Master Teacher, E-RYT 500, Thai Massage Specialist, Fertility Doula, Birth Doula and co-founder/owner of Sankofa Yoga and Wellness Center and Sankofa Health Center. She holds a PhD in Language, Literacy and Culture and holds a master's degree in Women's and Gender Studies: Health and Sexuality, and a bachelor's degree in Journalism with minors in History and Black Women's Studies. Tamisha is a member of the International Association of Reiki Professionals and is rooted in community healing and community advocacy. To learn more about Tamisha, click here.