Frequently Asked Questions
Email kp@paloaltoreiki.com if you have additional questions.
Which lineage of Reiki is practiced at Palo Alto Reiki?
As a Reiki Master, I practice and teach the Usui method of Reiki. This method of energy healing was founded in Japan by Dr. Mikao in 1865. His tradition and methods were passed through several grandmasters of Reiki. Today, Reiki takes many forms, however, the Usui system of energy healing is still the form most widely practiced. You may read the complete history of Usui Reiki here.
Is Reiki affiliated with a religion?
No. Reiki is universal life force energy which is a birthright of all living things. No one owns Reiki. Reiki is omnipresent and omnipotent.
Why does Palo Alto Reiki only serve women and those who identify as women?
It was a conscious choice and not one that I made lightly. The shift was less about leaving men out and more about calling women in. Over the years I've had few male clients so on paper it wasn't a huge change. But energetically it WAS a huge change. Allow me to elaborate. We all have both masculine and feminine energies within us. These are universal energies which have nothing to do with gender. For example, giving is an action of masculine energy, and receiving is an action of feminine energy, and balancing both is key to inner harmony. Since our current society is dominated by natural male energies (logic, focus, productivity, confidence, action, conflict, and structure) many of us feel a deep imbalance in our lives. This imbalance can look like anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, exhaustion, or illness. By allowing Palo Alto Reiki to become a sacred space specifically for women, the natural feminine energies such as intuition, emotion, openness, vulnerability, stillness, and surrender are prioritized. Thus allowing women a reprieve from the hustle bustle of every day life and the opportunity to regain energetic balance.
When did Palo Alto Reiki open?
Palo Alto Reiki was opened in September, 2020.
What is the address?
The Reiki studio is located on the same property as my home in Palo Alto. The exact address is included in the confirmation email received after booking.
Is there parking?
Yes, there is plenty of free street parking near the studio.
What are the COVID precautions?
I offer both in-person and Zoom sessions for all appointments. Please make your own decision on which to schedule based on your personal levels of risk and comfort. I am fully vaccinated and boosted. Vaccinations are required for all in-person clients. I practice proximity Reiki, which means I beam Reiki from a distance of 6-feet, requiring no hands-on contact. The room is wiped with Clorox between clients and has two separate air ventilation systems, plus windows to open (weather permitting). Masks are optional, please do whatever makes you comfortable.
What are the practitioner's credentials?
Kristen Podulka has the following credentials. Read more about Kristen here.
Certified Energy Healing Practitioner, Academy of Energy Healing
Certified Reiki 1 & 2 Practitioner, Reiki Energy Healing LLC
Certified Reiki Master and Teacher, Academy of Energy Healing
Professional Affiliations
Accreditation, International Reiki Organization
Member, Foundation for Mind-Being Research
Member, Association For Spirit-Based Practitioners
Professional Member, International Association of Reiki Professionals
Professional Member, International Institute for Complementary Therapists
I've never had Reiki before...is that OK?
Absolutely! No previous experience is required nor expected. Many of my clients are brand new to Reiki Healing. I take time to explain what to expect and answer any questions you have before we begin.
How should I prepare for my first Reiki session?
There's nothing you need to do for Reiki to be effective. The only requirement is an open mind and a willingness to receive. There's no wrong way to experience Reiki. Reiki is safe and can never cause harm, as it is always channeled for your highest good.
Is a Zoom session as effective as an in person session?
Yes. Energy knows no boundaries! All energy healing sessions are equally effective whether on Zoom or in person. As a certified Reiki Master I have been trained to send Reiki from any distance. You may read how distance healing works here.
How do I know if the Reiki worked?
Reiki energy healing is subtle. It's not a quick fix. There is no sure fire way to "prove" that it "worked". Reiki requires a certain level of trust in something bigger than ourselves. Call it what you like--the Universe, your higher self, your subconscious, the soul, guides, angels, God, Spirit, inner knowing. The healing occurs because we trust that it occurs.
Is there anything I need to do after my session?
You may want to drink extra water to keep yourself grounded after Reiki. Other than that, remain curious over the following days and see if you notice anything shift...perhaps physical pain abates, emotions stabilize, and/or stress lessens. You may notice you an overall sense of ease and calm. Everybody's experience is unique. Trust that whatever you notice is for your highest good.
Should I tip my practitioner?
Thank you for asking, but tips are not expected nor necessary in my practice.
How often should I get Reiki?
This answer is entirely up to you. There is no prescription for Reiki. Allow your intuition to guide you.
Which languages do you speak?
English only.
Are there special accommodations for those who require it?
Absolutely. Please email kp@paloaltoreiki.com or call 650-561-2185 prior to you appointment to let me know which accommodations you need. I will make every effort to accomodate your needs.
Is Palo Alto Reiki size inclusive?
Yes, I adhere to Health at Every Size (HAES®) principles, which promote health equity, respectful care, weight inclusivity, eating for well-being, and life-enhancing movement. The Reiki sofa is a Sealy Chaise Lounge. The weight capacity is 350lbs. and dimensions are17.7'' H x 30.7'' W x 71.3'' L. Additional accommodations can be made as needed.
Does the Reiki studio have air conditioning?
Yes, the Reiki studio is temperature controlled with both air conditioning and heat for your comfort. You made read more about the studio here.
What are your policies on refunds, rescheduling, and running late?
Please note the following policies:
-If you arrive late, your session will end at the originally scheduled time.
-Re-scheduling is permitted with 24 hour advanced notice via text, call, or email.
-No shows receive a 50% refund upon request.
-Credits expire after 1 year from date of issue.
-Refunds are given on a case by case basis and a $20 fee will be deducted from refund amount.
Do you offer Gift Cards?
Yes! Giving the gift of good energy is a wonderful way to send gratitude, kindness, and love to family, friends, and colleagues. To purchase a gift session, please email your request to: kp@paloaltoreiki.com
Do you offer financial assistance?
Yes, each Monday sessions are offered at a significantly reduced rate for those in need of financial assistance. Finances should never be a barrier to energy healing. It is our right as divine beings to experience the profound relaxation and increased well being of Reiki. If you have genuine financial constraints, please book your Reiki session using this link. There is no application or verification required.
How do I leave a review of my experience?
Thank you for asking! If you had a positive experience and would like to share it with others, you may submit a review on Google here. If you were unsatisfied for any reason, please reach out to discuss by emailing kp@paloaltroreiki.com or calling 650-561-2185.
What's your pricing policy?
Prices are subject to change at any time, without prior notice.