Someone can have your instruction manual, follow it to a T, but it wouldn't be the same because only you can create your essence.

I view reiki as one person's way of working with universal life force energy. The reiki symbols are particular to that practitioner's way of tapping into their intention for that session. You can use any symbol you want to amplify your intention.

You know what would work better than the symbols personal to that practitioner 100 years ago? A symbol with personal resonance to you and your intention.

Personally, I have a hard time accepting people's claims of "proprietary" methods. I see it as a way to control and limit access. At the end of the day, I believe no one can do what you do because of your unique flavor.

Someone can have your instruction manual, follow it to a T, but it wouldn't be the same because only you can create your essence.

​The end product would still be their end product and yours would still be yours.