My long and varied flirtation with alternative healing and Eastern philosophy began after a college career that felt restricting and oppressive. Trained as a classical violinist and pianist from the age of 6, that career was eventually cut short by seemingly unsolvable physical pain caused by the hours of practice needed to excel with those instruments. I relocated after college, and took up the study of Macrobiotic cooking and philosophy, which began a lifelong fascination with Zen and Tibetan Buddhism. Tai Chi was a natural development, as was Karate practice. I treated friends with massage, and when the opportunity to learn Reiki Levels 1 and 2 presented itself over 30 years ago, I had the privilege to participate in group workshops treating frail older adults. Reiki was put on pause while I pursued other opportunities. I became certified as a Divorce Mediator, then worked for several years at an animal shelter, trained dogs, and took professional courses in canine training, tracking and trailing. Tired of New England weather, I finally relocated to Arizona, a place where I always wanted to live after vacationing in Tucson as a child. I was thrilled to be able to resume my Reiki training and practice after thirty some years, leading to attaining Reiki Master Teacher level. Connecting with Kate before and during the training, a wonderful friend and Reiki partner, has led to the formation of Tucson Reiki Wellness.

Vicki Kinnaman