We recently connected with Debbie Gianini and have shared our conversation below.
Debbie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
It was December of 2017…..I had taken up running half marathons in my late forties and fully embraced the feeling of the “runners high”. As I completed my last Disney half, I noticed I HAD DEVELOPED A NEW PAIN IN MY NECK AREA and went to the orthopedic soon after returning home. It was not the news I wanted to hear. Two herniated disks in my neck and I was told to find something other than running! That set me on a journey of complete loss and HENCE put me in a negative mindset. What was I going to do for cardio? How would I keep my weight off? Nothing else was going to give me the feeling that running did. It was several months before I joined a group fitness class on the recommendation of my daughter. I had gained several pounds from the lack of running and thought a fitness class might help me shed the weight. It didn’t help….I was under the assumption that calories in equaled calories out….not the case. I was eating to eat and exercise wasn’t burning up what I was consuming. After one of my classes, I spoke to the coach about my issue and he offered to meet with me and work out a plan. A plan? Here I go again! Another trainer trying to show me how to eat and exercise….not going to work! These were all things THAT WERE RUNNING through my mind. Something told me to give it a try. We met and I signed up, all the while thinking that this would be the last time I WOULD do this because it’s not going to work. Boy was I wrong! I feel as though this person was sent to me or maybe I created this situation. I started to train with my now transformation coach, Joseph Oniwor in February of 2018. He worked with my nutrition first so I could see the weight loss. I was amazed that after the first week I was already down 2 pounds! I was logging my food and had incorporated Herbalife protein shakes into my nutrition plan. Within the next 3 months, I was still losing and he introduced weight training which was pretty foreign to me. I had no idea that I could weight train and do less cardio and burn fat like never before. What I also learned was how to control my mindset. This was all an inside out approach to weight loss THAT I NEVER KNEW ABOUT. Today I have kept off 40+ pounds since I started in 2018, I have a keen sense to my mindset and the law of attraction and because of this journey, I was introduced to Reiki. I signed up for Reiki 1 Certification and was so moved by the experience that I had to learn it all. Soon after I took Reiki 2 Certification and then Mastership training so that I could teach others the beautiful experience that Reiki brings to all!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I first heard about Reiki a few years ago and couldn’t even prounounce it let alone know what it was about. A few of my friends were going for their certification. I was curious and joined them. It was from that moment, when I went through the attunement that I was so incredibly moved emotionally, physically and spiritually that I had to learn more. I continued my studies through Reiki Level 2 and then waited almost a year before knowing that this was my life purpose and had to pursue the Mastership training. MY MISSION IS TO REIKI THE WORLD! If I could benefit so profoundly from a peaceful and loving standpoint, I know there are plenty of others who could also benefit. Part of my mission is to offer Reiki virtually for sessions bringing peace and harmony/balance to those who can’t meet with me in person. I offer 30 and 60 minute sessions. I also find it extremely beneficial from a healing and self-love standpoint to become Certified in Reiki Levels 1 and Level 2. I offer an on-going 6 week virtual training via zoom where I incorporate Reiki Levels 1 and 2 as well as breathing and healing the chakras. I find if someone is willing to go through the training FOR SELF-LOVE, they should also know everything about themselves, AND HOW TO BALANCE THE CHAKRAS if they or someone they work with is suffering from an inbalance. MY VIRTUAL CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS RANGE FROM 6-12 WEEKS, because it gives the student unlimited access to me should they require information when we are not in sessions. We develop a relationship and bond – something I hold very close to my heart. When my students graduate from the program, I am like the proud parent knowing that I have certified another healer into the world. I also offer a 12 week virtual program called Reiki for Self-Love and Weight loss. This is geared toward the woman heading into mid-life, menopause and feeling like they can’t stick to a good nutrition program and feel good in their skin. I designed this because that was me. Almost giving up at midlife and eating my way through the years, gaining weight, bad mindset, no clue how to stay CONSISTENT and trying all the diets out there, only to find nothing worked. Over the 12 weeks, we cover Reiki Level 1 to heal ourselves and stay balanced. We cover breathwork and healing the chakras for balance as well. We dive into nutrition and accountability to stay focused and true to yourself. I bring in guest experts for 3 of the weeks on nutrition, fitness/bone density strenght and healthy cooking.
If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?
If I could go back in time, I would choose to become a WELLNESS professional. In today’s fast-paced and hectic world, self-care often takes a backseat in peoples lives. Many individuals neglect their own well-being, both physically and mentally, as they priortize their professional and personal responsibilities. Self-care is essential for maintaining overall health and happiness. As a Reiki professional, I have the opportunity to provide individuals with one-on-one time dedicated to their well-being. I create a safe and nurturing space where people can truly relax, let go of their worries, and focus on their own needs. Practicing Reiki is fulfilling for me as well. Helping others and witnessing their transformation and growth brings a profound sense of satisfaction and purpose. The act of providing healing energy to others not only benefits my clients but also nourishes my own spirit, creating a reciprocal relationship where both the recipient and the practitioner experience positive energy and well-being. Choosing to become a Reiki professional allows me to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?
Besides having the necessary training and knowledge in Reiki, creating a caring and nurturing environment for my clients is crucial for success as a Reiki practitioner. A few of the key aspects to consider when it comes to providing a comfortable and safe space for your clients is:
1. Compassion and Empathy – Showing genuine care and understanding toward your clients. To listen attentively to their concerns and needs and make them feel heard and supported. Empathize with their experiences and create a non-judgemental space where they can feel comfortable to open and share their emotions.
2. Trust and Confidentiality – Establishing trust with your clients is essential. Assure them that their personal information and experiences will be kept confidential. This will allow them to feel safe and secure which will enable them to fully relax and engage in the healing process.
3. Clear Communication – Clearly communicate the process of a Reiki session to your clients, including what they can expect and any potential sensations they may experience. This helps to alleviate any apprehensions or uncertainties they may have, thus creating a space of comfort and ease.
4. Physical Comfort – Pay attention to physical comfort of your clients during the session. Providing comfortable cushions, blankets, or anything they may need to feel relaxed and at ease.
5. Create a Calm Environment – Set the ambiance of the room to promote relaxation and tranquility. Consider using soothing music, soft lighting and gentle aromas such as essential oils to create a serene atmosphere. This helps clients to disconnect from the outside world and enter a peaceful state of mind.
6. Respect and Boundaries – Respect your clients personal boundaries and preferences. Always ask for their consent before touching them and ensure they are comfortable with the level of physical contact involved in the session.
7. Continues Support – Offer support beyond the Reiki session. Provide resources, recommendations, or self-care practices that your clients can incorporate into their daily lives to maintain their well-being and continue their healing journey outside of the sessiohns.
Every client is unique and by tailoring your approach to their individual needs and preferences is essential. By providing a caring and nuturing environment, you create a space where your clients can feel safe, supported, and empowered to clear their blockages and find inner peace through the practice of Reiki.
Contact Info:
- Website: Reikiwellnesswithdeb.com
- Instagram: Reikiwellnesswithdeb
- Facebook: Reikiwellness withDeb
Image Credits
Caige Hitz Photography