The following is a description of what to expect in a Reiki First Degree class from an Usui Shiki Ryoho Master trained in the lineage of Mikao Usui, Chujiro Hayashi, Hawayo Takata, and Phyllis Furumoto. All classes are to be taught in person, the essence of the oral tradition requires the physical presence of a Master. The Master alone holds the energy of the class, personally presenting and teaching each segment of the class and performing the initiations on each individual. The Master's experience with Reiki, teaching within the System and the connection of the Master to the lineage are very important factors to consider in choosing a teacher. The First Degree class should consist of:

· Four training sessions of 2 - 4 hours each
· Four initiation ceremonies
· Sharing the history of Usui Shiki Ryoho 
· Honoring the lineage of the four Grandmasters
· Tracing lineage from a Grandmaster to the teaching Master
· Presentation of the Reiki precepts
· Explanation of the four aspects of Reiki
· Demonstrating the hand positions for self treatment
· Teaching the hand positions for treatment of others
· Practicing treatments during the class

In a Usui System class no other healing modalities, new age practices or meditation techniques are taught. 

Time for the student to experience First Degree Reiki is given before Second Degree Reiki is offered (recommended six months minimum) . Master Level requires several years of experience and training.