Akleema Ali is a Reiki Master Teacher and the Owner of The Reiki Lighthouse in Trinidad & Tobago. Her passion is on using meditation and Reiki as a major modality for optimal health & wellness. Her mission: Encouraging others to build their own sanctuary. Her vision: Everyone can access peace within.
Akleema Ali, Reiki Master Teacher
Introduce yourself! Please tell us about you and your life, so we can get to know you better.
Hi, and thank you for having me! My name is Akleema Ali, and I'm the proud owner of The Reiki Lighthouse in the beautiful Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. I am an Usui Reiki Master, an Usui/Holy Fire© III Reiki Master, a Holy Fire© III Karuna© Reiki Master, Animal Reiki Practitioner, a Psychic Reiki Practitioner, a Reiki Drumming Practitioner and an Access Bar Practitioner. At the heart of my practice is the creation of a sacred space and sanctuary for those seeking grounding, emotional healing, clarity, and an infusion of peace and calm into their lives.
I'm passionate about mental health and wellness. I've delved into research on depression, suicidal ideation, and public health issues, with my findings published in reputable journals like the International Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health, Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, and European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
Over the last five years, I've immersed myself in the transformative world of Reiki, making it my primary modality for cultivating inner peace and enhancing my meditative practice. My journey with Reiki has been featured in publications such as the Reiki News Magazine and the Universal Life Magazine, where I've explored topics ranging from gratitude practices to the significance of digital communities in the Reiki world. I've had the privilege of speaking at the 2023 Reiki Rays 'Reiki Healing Summit,' where I shared insights on 'Empowering your Vision with Reiki.'
Additionally, I do love to dabble a bit into poetry, and I am the Ambassador for Glory Future Foundation in Bangladesh, contributing a poem titled 'Love Yourself' to their book 'Poetry for Children.' I've also expressed my creativity through poetry for Women’s Biz Publishing in a book titled 'Awaken your Divine Feminine.' As a TAPN2U Peace Partner, I proudly represent Trinidad & Tobago in a World Peace Project led by Dr. Anita Powell in the U.S.A.
Due to my traditional upbringing, I love celebrating religious festivals and I spend a lot of time in the kitchen. I love cooking different meals ranging from Indian, Chinese and West Indian cuisine. My joy is also found in baking bread and cakes.
In essence, my life is a blend of healing, advocacy, and creative expression (and food!), all rooted in the belief that well-being is a holistic journey accessible to everyone.
Can you provide an overview of The Reiki Lighthouse and its mission or purpose?
Certainly. The Reiki Lighthouse is not just a healing space; it's a sacred sanctuary meticulously crafted for those seeking to ground themselves in life, take charge of their emotional healing, gain clarity, and welcome more peace and calm into their lives. With the different modalities I have learnt, I tailor healing experiences to the unique needs of each individual.
In this field of Reiki, I prioritize the creation of a sacred space, understanding that true healing involves not only the physical but also the emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of an individual. My services encompass a range of offerings, from individual healing sessions utilizing various modalities to consultations, teaching, mentoring, workshops, and guided meditations.
In 2017, my path took a transformative turn when I was introduced to Reiki so I try to embody and offer what I have personally experienced with this modality.I began to witness its profound impact on a person's well-being and mental health. While I hold psychological and psychiatric interventions in high regard, I strongly believe that Reiki has a vital role as a healing modality, fostering peace and calm. It serves as a complementary therapy for those undergoing medical interventions and treatments.
In essence, The Reiki Lighthouse stands as a beacon of healing, offering a space where individuals can navigate their journey toward balance, peace, and overall well-being. If I really had to sum it up in one sentence though, I would say my mission is encouraging others to build their own sanctuary and my vision is that everyone can access peace within.
How does The Reiki Lighthouse engage with the local or online community interested in holistic healing practices?
At The Reiki Lighthouse, my engagement with both the local and online communities is a dynamic and multi-faceted approach. Being part of Reiki associations and various online community groups allow me to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about holistic healing practices. Through diverse online platforms, including a professional website, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and recently joined TikTok, I aim to reach and positively impact a broader audience.
The professional website serves as a comprehensive hub, detailing the array of offerings available at The Reiki Lighthouse. Importantly, it goes beyond just showcasing services; it's a valuable resource with free materials that empower visitors with knowledge and practices to enhance their well-being.
On Instagram, I showcase Reiki as a lifestyle, offering a visual journey into the transformative aspects of incorporating Reiki into daily life. The platform allows me to share insights, practices, and moments of serenity that resonate with individuals seeking a holistic approach to well-being.
LinkedIn provides a professional space where I share information about conferences, publications, and mindfulness tips. Facebook remains a versatile space where I engage with both local and global communities. I love using these platforms for sharing updates, events, and fostering a sense of community among those interested in holistic healing practices.
And recently, I’ve joined TikTok, utilizing its short-form video format to share snippets of nature, providing moments of calm and reflection. This aligns with my belief in the therapeutic power of connecting with nature, even in the digital space.
Each platform serves a unique purpose, catering to the diverse preferences and needs of the audience. Whether it's through visually inspiring content on Instagram, in-depth information on the website, professional networking on LinkedIn, community-building on Facebook, or nature-infused moments on TikTok, my aim seeks to create a holistic online presence that resonates with individuals seeking a path to wellness.
What guiding principles or philosophies influence your approach to Reiki and holistic well-being?
Well, in my practice, I draw heavily from the Reiki precepts, which serve as the foundational principles. The Reiki precepts, or principles, are a fundamental aspect of Reiki philosophy, and they serve as a guiding light in my practice. There are variations in wording, but the essence remains constant. The five precepts are as follows:
1. Just for today, I will not be angry.
This precept encourages us to let go of anger, recognizing its detrimental effects on our well-being. In my practice, it translates to creating a space of calm and positive energy for both myself and the client.
2. Just for today, I will not worry.
This precept emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and releasing unnecessary worry about the future. It fosters a mindset of trust and acceptance. During sessions, it guides me in helping clients let go of anxiety and be present in their healing journey.
3. Just for today, I will be grateful.
Gratitude is a powerful force, and this precept reminds us to appreciate the blessings in our lives. In Reiki sessions, I often encourage clients to focus on gratitude as a way to shift their energy towards positivity.
4. Just for today, I will do my work honestly.
This precept speaks to the importance of integrity and ethical conduct. It guides me in maintaining a high standard of professionalism and honesty in my Reiki practice, ensuring a safe and trustworthy environment for clients.
5. Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing.
Kindness is at the core of Reiki. This precept encourages compassion not only towards others but also towards oneself. It influences my approach by promoting a nurturing and empathetic atmosphere during sessions.
These precepts aren't rigid rules but rather gentle reminders for daily living. They inspire a mindset shift and align perfectly with the holistic nature of Reiki, emphasizing the interconnectedness of our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
They remind us to live in the present moment, cultivate gratitude, and embrace kindness and compassion.
Beyond that, I firmly believe in a holistic approach to well-being, recognizing that health is not just physical but encompasses mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects. I emphasize the flow and balance of energy in the body, aligning with the fundamental Reiki concept. We are intricate beings, and addressing all these layers is crucial for overall health. Another key aspect is the mind-body connection. Reiki allows me to work on the subtle energies that contribute to both physical and emotional well-being.
Intuition plays a significant role in my practice. Trusting my instincts helps tailor sessions to meet the unique needs of each client. It's a client-centered approach, where active listening and creating a supportive space are paramount. I encourage clients to actively participate in their healing journey and embrace self-care practices.
Moreover, Reiki isn't just about external healing; it empowers individuals to take charge of their well-being. It's a path to self-discovery and growth. Additionally, I acknowledge the spiritual aspect of Reiki and how it can contribute to a sense of purpose and connection. In essence, my approach is a blend of traditional Reiki principles, a holistic perspective, intuitive healing, and a deep focus on the client's well-being, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-care.
What are your aspirations or plans for the future of The Reiki Lighthouse?
Looking ahead, the future of The Reiki Lighthouse is filled with exciting possibilities and a continued commitment to holistic well-being. One of my primary aspirations is to further establish The Reiki Lighthouse as a beacon of transformative healing not only locally but also on a broader scale. I envision expanding my reach and impact, connecting with individuals worldwide who seek a path to balance, peace, and overall well-being.
In terms of services, I plan to continue diversifying the offerings to cater to the unique needs of my clients. This includes expanding the range of modalities and techniques to incorporate into my healing sessions, ensuring that I remain at the forefront of innovative and effective holistic practices.
Education is a key focus for the future. I aspire to enhance the educational aspect of The Reiki Lighthouse by offering more workshops, classes, and resources. This includes via online platforms, enabling individuals from various locations to access valuable insights and practices that contribute to their personal growth and healing.
Collaborations are another exciting avenue for the future. I'm keen on establishing partnerships with like-minded professionals, organizations, and platforms in the holistic health and wellness space. By working together, we can create a more significant impact and reach a broader audience, ultimately fostering a sense of community and support. Expanding the online presence will remain a priority, utilizing the power of social media platforms to inspire, educate, and connect.
In essence, the future of The Reiki Lighthouse is about growth, innovation, and a continued dedication to empowering individuals on their journey to holistic well-being. I am excited about the transformative potential that lies ahead and I remain committed to evolving The Reiki Lighthouse into a hub of inspiration, education and healing for years to come.
Tell us about your greatest career achievement so far.
One of the highlights of my career has been receiving recognition as one of the Top Ten Energy Healers of 2022 & 2023 by The Energy Healing Magazine in France. It's truly humbling to have been honored with this title for two consecutive years.
Starting out as a Reiki practitioner posed its challenges, especially here in Trinidad & Tobago, where Reiki initially clashed with diverse religious, cultural, and spiritual beliefs. Despite the initial difficulties, I persevered, and over time, those genuinely seeking the benefits of Reiki gravitated towards me, while others who felt uncomfortable took a different path.
Embracing Reiki as a lifestyle has transformed me into a more reflective and appreciative individual. It's given me a profound understanding of human suffering, creating a sacred space during sessions to honor personal struggles and facilitate healing.
The nomination highlighted my commitment to Reiki mentoring and sharing expertise, as evidenced by my participation as one of the contributors at the Reiki Rays 'Reiki Healing Summit.' During this event, I had the opportunity to share insights in my presentation, 'Empowering Your Vision with Reiki: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Vision Board.' It was a wonderful experience illuminating a path for others to harness the transformative power of Reiki for personal growth.
In terms of publications, I've contributed to esteemed publications such as The Universal Life Magazine, The Reiki Healing Association Website and the Pillar of Light Magazine. These publications reflect my dedication to sharing wisdom and encouraging others to embrace their unique modalities and lifestyles, transcending borders and reaching diverse audiences.
One of the significant milestones mentioned in my award is my involvement in the Centre for Reiki Research “Reiki Research Conference.” Serving as a Panel Moderator and facilitating a Reiki Drumming Experiential Session marked a groundbreaking step as the Conference signified integrating Reiki with medical research. This experience underscored the potential for collaboration between Reiki professionals and medical experts, paving the way for compassionate healthcare that combines Reiki's benefits with conventional treatments.
My motivational and empowerment speaking engagements have been another avenue through which I've made a positive impact. Addressing topics from healing the wounds of women to inspiring global champions, these talks resonate deeply, encouraging healing and empowerment across diverse spheres.
I remain deeply humbled and grateful on my path with Reiki. It was a honour to have been recognized for work and service to humanity.
