Reiki level 2 (the subject of this post), is a more advanced level, where the student learns amongst other things, to harness more Reiki energy and distance healing.

The most noticeable difference between Reiki level 1 and Reiki level 2 is the inclusion of 3 special symbols & their respective mantras. These are used to increase the level of Reiki energy and to enhance healing abilities. For instance, the third symbol, used for distance healing, sends Reiki healing energy to a person in a remote location. You can (and should) do Reiki distant healing to yourself. It is very powerful!
It is said in USUI Reiki, that once you have mastered the use of the three symbols and mantras, you already have sufficient confidence and experience to heal without their use. Western Reiki teaches that the symbols should always be used during healing. I think that both approaches are valid, use whichever approach feels most natural.
How to use the Symbols and Mantras:
The following is a brief description of how to use the three Reiki symbols and mantras. For a more detailed description, please read Reiki Symbols: How they enhance Reiki healing. The symbols may be drawn in the air, onto your palms or imagined. It is worth learning to imagine the symbols as it avoids revealing them to others, or inviting awkward questions.
Once you understand the nature of each of the symbols, it is easy to apply them to any circumstance. Their use is as flexible as your imagination.
Cho Ku ReiPower symbol:
The power symbol works on the physical level and is used for boosting Reiki energy. Think of it as focusing Reiki energy, like a laser beam. The symbol’s use before healing reduces the amount of time required for a healing session. If you’ve studied Reiki 1, the amount of energy available might require 5 minutes per hand position. With the use of this symbol, the amount of time may be reduced by at least 50%! Or, use the same amount of time, and deliver more healing energy. It is certainly handy for self-healing, as the overall session time is much less. Read Reiki Symbols: How to use the Reiki Power Symbol to learn more about the Reiki power symbol and its uses.