Testimonials for Reiki courses

“WOW what an amazing 2 days!!! A truly life changing experience, which continues to grow day by day. I would highly recommend this course to anyone who wants to find peace within themselves.”  Eleni, Essex

“Up until having my first child in 1998, I worked full time and flat out in the rat race of the corporate world. I was exhausted and burnt out as a result of constantly pushing myself to the max in both work and play. My body complained bitterly and I was always ill with a multitude of every day ailments and stress related disorders such as alopecia.

Something had to change and I began to look at changing my lifestyle with nutrition and alternative therapies such as reflexology. My journey into the spiritual world began a little later on (somewhat by accident) in 2003. Having completed an Indian Head Massage course, I was looking for another treatment to add to my repertoire… but I was impatient, and on a mission to complete as fast as I could. I therefore wanted a therapy that needed little study or prior qualifications. The Reiki Level 1 course presented itself to me, and without really taking the time to understand what Reiki truly was, I booked myself in on the weekend’s course with Katarina Tilley as Reiki Master and Teacher.

I attended the first day’s session and initially I was somewhat bemused. Everyone else on the course seemed to be highly spiritual and they were sharing the experiences they were having as the day progressed. At first, I felt a bit of the “odd one out”. I was clearly not in their zone and was somewhat sceptical of their talks on visualisations, feelings of warmth (or energy) in their hands and the intuition they seemed to have. However, by the end of the first day, something seemed to click inside and I went home to practice.

By the end of the next day, and my Reiki Level 1 complete, I can honestly say that Reiki had changed my life. Firstly, the Reiki Principles made a major impact on my thought processes and my day to life… and they still do. For example:

Just for today, I will give thanks for my many blessings
I count my blessings every day and also give thanks (to whoever is up there listening!) for anything that makes me happy…. from the major things in life (e.g. a successful job interview)… to the minors (a beautiful flower in my garden). If it pleases me, I now say thank you.

Just for today, I will be kind to my neighbour and every living thing
After completing the weekend, I found I could no longer kill a spider in my bedroom. Or stamp on the ants that had invaded my garden. I even had to apologise to the slugs that I pulled off my plants and moved them to another area of the garden. Before Reiki, I would have just drowned them in beer!

Also after the course, I too started to feel the warmth in my hands, and whenever I felt the need, I would use Reiki on myself, family members or friends. I even gave Reiki to animals. Also, my intuition began to creep in and I started to sense people’s feelings and emotions. And best of all, I noticed that I was feeling a much calmer person inside.

Some say that Reiki finds you... rather than you find Reiki. Either way, I’m so grateful that it came in to my life and that I had Katarina Tilley as my teacher. So much so, that I went on to do level 2 with her… then my Masters… and also trained with her as a Reflexologist.

Katarina is so knowledgeable in both Reiki and Reflexology that she is naturally professional in all of her teaching. However, as part of her teaching, Katarina also gives you a whole new perspective on the spiritual aspects of life. This for me is priceless. Whether you decide to be a Complementary Therapist or not, "everything” you learn from Katarina can be used to help yourself and your loved ones as part of everyday life. Because of this, I cannot recommend Katarina highly enough.” Sue, Essex

“I attended the Reiki 1 Beginners Course at the beginning of 2011 and can only say that it has been the start of a turning point in my life. I was initially a bit nervous of attending but as soon as I entered Katarina’s home I felt instantly at ease. She is very warm and welcoming and the group that I was with have now become friends. The Reiki Course itself is a very relaxing but busy two day course and it is worth every penny spent! On the first course Katarina opens you up to the Reiki energy through a relaxing ritual and goes on to teach you how to do the healing on yourself and others.

I have since used the Reiki on my family (even my sceptic partner who is the one that asks me to do it over and over again!). For me on a personal level it has opened my eyes and has given me a new outlet on how to deal with my emotions, to keep calm, meditate and ultimately dragged me out of my self-pity hole and to think of others and to try practice patience and tolerance. I do believe Reiki is a very personal journey to go on and will only help to improve your life in the best possible way. For our group it was a very calm, spiritual, cleansing two days where we learnt so much about ourselves and I cannot wait to attend the Level 2 course.” Debbie, Essex

“From the moment I set foot onto Lowlands in Colchester and met my new Reiki master I knew I would be there for my Reiki II and Reiki mastership. Katarina not only is welcoming and hospitable but she makes you feel very special as she takes you into a very different world for which I will forever be grateful. Lowlands is a sanctuary, the quietness and tranquility of the surroundings could not be better. Katarina’s passion is second to none as is her teaching of Reiki. The manuals are very well set out and I still use them as guides. However Katarina is always there to help and offer guidance when needed.” Jayne, Essex

“It was a strange feeling, something was very different, gone was the heavy dark blanket restraining me, strangling me holding me down. I just knew that for the last 40 years I had disappeared and now something within me was urging me to search for the real reason of my existence. I was feeling confused and my mind churning over with thoughts of well being, I searched and found Katarina Tilley.

This was the beginning of a journey that I never for one moment expected would change my whole perception of thinking and being. I embarked on the Reiki Level I with Katarina soon after meeting her. Katarina explained very clearly the basic principles and practise of Reiki and I received a very powerful attunement. It made many things fall into place.

Soon after I realised I had received much more than Reiki from Katarina, she opened up a gateway for a deeper understanding. It was at this point a change really began, I felt as if I was back in love with the world again. It was almost as if I had been in a deep dark sleep and I was slowly awakening to this beautiful new world around me. Calmness and love was taking me over, it was powerful.

I carried out Reiki on friends and it was an incredible privilege to help others. Feed back was positive so I knew it was time to embark on Reiki II. This attunement was truly amazing. Katarina has a non-judgemental and effortless way of teaching. Through her deep knowledge and wisdom she guided me through this level to a higher connection. I particularly enjoyed the Kotodama. I can only describe my state of mind as joyous since I started on this journey. Katarina has given me clarity and opened my eyes as to the help I can give others aswell as support me through my personal life. Thanks Katarina.” Ann, Essex 


"Following my wonderful meditation course, I have gone on to complete my first degree Reiki course, my horizons are opened even wider, thank you so much.  Roll on Reiki 2!!"  Reg, Essex


"The course was everything I hoped it would be and more.  The weekend was very busy but also so relaxing.  I feel very confident in my ability, as Katarina certainly goes the extra mile with her teaching and no question or query goes by without a very in depth explanation.  Katarina's home and treatment room are full of relaxation and warmth and I could not have been made more welcome.  I have well and truly began my Reiki journey and have booked for Reiki 2, in three months time.  If you wan to learn Reiki, I would recommend Katarina to you.  I would be very surprised if you did not have the most amazing and insightful time."  Sarah, Essex

Meditation Course Testimonials


"I thoroughly enjoyed the meditation classes and now look forward to my daily meditation.  I feel more peaceful, relaxed and more thoughtful in my relationships." Tim, Essex

"Meditation has totally changed my outlook on life.  I enjoy the whole process of being quiet, calm and re-discovering my inner self.  Consequently, my relationships are much more relaxed and easy going." Jill, Essex

"I have recently completed the 5 session Meditation Course with Katarina. Although I have dabbled with meditation in the past Katarina taught us a different method of meditation each week and we therefore had an opportunity to try something new. I thoroughly enjoyed the course and now meditate every day as a result.

I feel that this course has had a very positive effect on my life - I now feel much calmer within myself, I am more mindful as I go through my day and am much calmer with my children - and husband!

Katarina is a patient, kind and knowledgeable teacher and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her course to anyone.” Katharine, Essex

"Thank you for your help in sorting out my emotional problems, as you know, I was very depressed by the fact that my investments have gone down in value quite a bit lately and I was also very concerned about the lowering in starndards of nearly everything in this modern world.

At first I did not seem to be getting very far in my meditation sessions but after about three meetings with you, I noticed an improvement in my attitude, to the constant bad news we seem to get.

I am now completely changed in my outlook and take the attitude that there is no point in me ruining my life over things I can do nothing about and do a daily 30 minutes meditation or more, of mindful meditation and of going through a silent checklist of all the things I have to be thankful for.

I have come out of the previous emotional problems and into a feeling of well-being and happiness. Thank you, once again."  Bryan, Essex  


"When I first came to Katarina I had lost my way and was weighed down with 'life'.

I had tried many spiritual paths and knew that was the direction I needed but exactly what I was not sure. I had tried meditation before but could never quite grasp it.........that was my mistake......Katarina showed me it was not to be 'grasped'.

Katarina led me in several meditation techniques....I always felt she was personalising it for me...the class was always warm and relaxing.  Katarina has a beautiful gift of being able to 'see' and 'feel' what I needed and the 5 meditation classes I spent with her transformed my life...that may sound dramatic ...but its true. I now use the tools she gave me daily and almost subconsciously.

I truly feel I have found my path again and feel happier now than I have for many years. I cannot recommend Katarina highly enough....she is truly inspirational and a great teacher."  Mary, Essex


"I feel like I can go away and cope with daily struggles more easily.  I have learned how to look at my actions, my thoughts and how to let go of things that I have no control over.  I have plenty more to learn but I feel ready to tackle problems now, rather than hide away or react, as I would have done previous to this course."  Victoria, Essex


"My first visit to Katarina was not really for myself, I felt as if I had been talked into going with a family member, who was not coping well with a medical problem.  So I was not really expecting to get much from the course.  On first meeting Katarina, I felt more relaxed as the kindness and warmth that she radiates puts you at ease.  As the weeks went on I found my whole life and the way I looked at life changing for the better.  Meditation has become part of my every day life, I only wish I had discovered it years ago.  I am now on an amazing journey to the life I have always wanted.  Thank you Katarina."  Sarah, Essex


"I undertook a meditation course with Katarina, at a time when I was at a very low ebb.  I had a medical condition that was and still is incurable.  I was at my wits end when I happened to see Katarina's advert.  I underwent 6 sessions of meditation and can only be full of praise, it was fantastic, the caring and kind way that I was treated and the professional way that she managed these sessions with me was far beyond my expectations.  I now have a great outlook on life and realise that nothing is forever.  Thank you so much Katarina, forever in your debt."  Reg, Essex


Mindfulness Based Awareness Coaching Testimonials


I find it very hard to put into words how this course has helped me (but I will try).  


I have been through some very traumatic times in the past and have never wanted to discuss them with anyone but I had also decided that I'd had enough of being and feeling like a victim, it was time to say goodbye to the negative thoughts and feelings.  


Katarina never forces anything out of you, but I found myself opening up to her like I've never done before.  I can honestly say since doing the programme, my life has completely changed, all of the negativity has gone.  I looked at it (something I've never been able to do before) and then I let it go.  


I set myself some wonderful and exciting goals and to my utter amazement, they are already happening.  I strongly recommend Katarina's personal coaching programme to anyone, not matter how bad life has been (and belive me I know how bad it can seem) because with this programme, it can and will get better.  Thank you Katarina, I know you will always say I changed my own life but believe me when I say I  could not have done it without you."  Sarah, Essex


Mindfulness Retreat Testimonials

" What was I expecting from a day of silence?  Escapism?  Ways to improve my meditation?  Was total silence possible with six other participants, in such close proximity?

the idea of monks and nuns going about their daily routines in silence and thought has always intrigued me - so I gave it a whirl!

I don't have a problem being silent, having always been happy with my own company - its outside factors (i.e. noise) that spoils my serenity.

Katarina's house is the epitome of calm - as soon as you enter you'll feel at peace.

The day started with introductions from everyone, each with our own reason for trying meditation and mindfulness.  I think that the silent retreat is a must for those that do meditate, giving ideas for different forms of meditating and mindfulness - sitting, standing, lying, walking inside and walking outside (my favourite).

Throughout the day we meditated, ate, drank, walked - all in silence, not even eye contact was permitted (more difficult than you would think when in a house full of strangers).  

Towards the end of the day a thought came to me (appropriately): If you're not thinking about the past and you're not thinking about the future then there is very little to think about - try mindfulness next time you make a cup of tea - the only thing to think about is what flavour tea you are going to try!

to answer my original questions - It is possible to be a silent order and I got what I expected - and more - deeper insight into my own stress triggers, ideas for more successful meditation and total refreshment of body and mind. 

I left Katarina's house calm and refreshed - it could become an addictive state! - I'll have to limit myself to this little luxury twice a year!"  Jenny, Essex

“I enjoyed the day very much, the extended period of being in silence was a great experience for me as I have not been silent for that long before, I found it very interesting indeed.

The world of silence seems so far apart from our normal everyday living, it's as if you've stepped into a totally different existence, for me this highlighted how much a part sound plays in life itself.

I think the main thing I have come away with from the retreat is the joy of the witness in everyday life.”  Simon, Essex

" If your not sure whether to attend The Retreat Day with Katarina Tilley at Lowlands or not... I can highly recommend it and can only say to you ... just do it!  


The surroundings are beautiful, the hospitality shown by both Katarina and her husband John at once put you at ease and you get a sense that you are in safe hands for the journy into mindfullness meditation.

The day is suitable for everyone albeit a well seasoned meditator or complete beginner .... and you dont have to sit cross legged on the floor (unless you want too of course) and is suitable for all ages.  The silence enables you to just let go and enjoy the day... no pressure.  Best of all the practice can easily be included into your daily routine building on the inner peace experienced at the Retreat. 

The food provided throughout the day was fantastic, all tastes catered for .... how about a Recipe Leaflet Katarina and John?? " Sue, Essex


"What a wonderful day was this retreat day of shared silence.
We were invited to be present in each moment of the day and with gentle guidance from Katarina felt safe to explore and experience mindfulness through stillness,walking, dancing,breathing and just being .A delicious scrumptious and nutritious lunch was shared together in silence.  As the  silence  progressed throughout the day, thinking beyond the present reduced but my emotions and physical body felt liberated.  I felt truly replenished by this experience and would certainly seek it out again.
Thank you to John and Katarina." Julia, Essex 

Awakening Out of Your Story Workshop Testimonials

"The title itself was intriguing enough for me to sign up for this workshop, but having previously completed a six part meditation course with Katarina and found great benefits from it, I was sure this workshop could benefit me too.

During the day, through meditation and discussion I was shown how outside influences throughout my past including parental control and life experiences had shaped the way I thought, acted and dealt with life, but how it was possible to wipe away the prejudices and beliefs and gain a calmer, more productive way of life.

Through being mindful and taking the decision to love the life I am in, it is possible to achieve a state of happiness hitherto unknown to me.

I won’t say it is a comfortable journey, and it is not easy to turn away from the lifelong held beliefs. I am also lazy about meditation! However the sense of peace that I can obtain through this mindfulness now outlasts the feelings that dogged me before the workshop.

I can only say that I was “awakened” and can now seek the peace of mind that I craved for so long." Jenny, Essex