At the end of life, or when a person is near death, we want to help in that special transition through a process of energy which we will refer to as Upekkha. This word translates roughly as Equanimity or "evenness of mind even under stress." It is the goal then to assist the patient near death ("transition") by channeling this energy that brings an unshakable calm.
In channeling Reiki for the dying what we want to call in is the energy of the Bodi Tree. The falling leaves remind us of all that holds us back. It speaks to our fear of pain, death to self, and to ego. It addresses the trepidation at moving forward and evolving. As leaves fall we stand barer and more exposed to the Universal Spirit. We see the spiritual energy of the Buddha, (not the physical embodiment), beckoning us from within the dying tree, offering to be our ascendent guide. The light that shines through is the Universal Light which connects us all. It is when we find this quiet humble place that the universal spirit can shine within us and we can help with transition. This is how Reiki for the dying can assist with the transition from life to death. It allows the soul to evolve and to be transformed into more than we can envision in our current state.
The flow of this unique energy seems to be most effective when it's channeled through the Crown Chakra. A single hand touching the head of the client between the patient's Third Eye Chakra and the Crown Chakra is the best placement for the channeling of this energy. As the consciousness is preparing to leave the body, the need to unify all the Chakras is no longer as critical. Opening the Crown Chakra allows the energy to flow and to help with the transition from life to death.
During this time it is important that the Practitioner remain grounded. Reverence and respect for this process is extremely important.