Understanding Reiki
Reiki (pronounced ray-key) is a gentle energy practice that originated in Japan. It is based on the concept of life force energy and the belief that supporting the flow and balance of this energy can promote relaxation and a greater sense of well-being.
​
During Reiki, there is nothing you need to do or achieve. It is an opportunity to slow down, turn your attention inward, and reconnect with yourself.
​
Reiki is not a religion and is not connected to any particular belief system. You don't need to believe in anything specific to receive Reiki. Curiosity and a willingness to experience it are enough.
How Does Distance Reiki Work?
One of the most common questions I hear is: How can Reiki work if we're not in the same room?
​
At its heart, Reiki is based on the belief that energy is not limited by physical distance. We already live in a world filled with energy and connection we cannot see. Wi-Fi, radio waves, and cell signals move around us all the time. We don't see them, but we experience their presence.
​
Distance Reiki asks us to consider something similar: that connection does not always require physical proximity.
In Reiki practice, energy can be offered across a room, across a city, or across the country. For me, intention is at the heart of that connection. You don't need to understand exactly how it works, visualize anything, or even be completely sure you believe in it. You can simply be open to the experience.
​
There is nothing specific you're supposed to feel. Some clients describe warmth, tingling, a floating sensation, emotional release, or deep stillness. Others simply feel deeply relaxed, while some notice very little during the session itself.
​
Every experience is different. There is no right or wrong way to receive Reiki.
​​
What You Can Expect
All private Reiki sessions at Palo Alto Reiki are held live over Zoom. We begin with a conversation about how you're feeling, what you're navigating, and what you'd like support with.
​
Then you'll get comfortable in a quiet space of your choosing, close your eyes if you'd like, and simply receive while I guide you into relaxation and offer Reiki from a distance.
​
Afterward, we'll reconnect and give you time to reflect, ask questions, and share anything you noticed during the session. Many clients describe feeling deeply relaxed, lighter, clearer, more grounded, or more connected to themselves.
​
One of the things I love about receiving Reiki at home is that when our session ends, you don't have to immediately get in a car or return to a busy environment. You can stay exactly where you are, rest, reflect, or gently ease back into your day.
​
Who Reiki Is For
At Palo Alto Reiki, private Reiki sessions are designed for women seeking time to pause, reconnect, and receive support.
​
You don't need to be going through a major life event or consider yourself spiritual to explore Reiki. Many women come to Reiki while navigating change, feeling overwhelmed, seeking greater balance or clarity, exploring their intuition, or simply recognizing that they need dedicated time for themselves.
​
Reiki may be a good fit if you're:
• Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or depleted
• Navigating change or uncertainty
• Seeking greater clarity or a sense of calm
• Wanting to feel more grounded and connected to yourself
• Curious about intuition, energy, or personal growth
• Looking to deepen your self-care or spiritual practice
​
You don't need any previous experience with Reiki or energy work. You can simply come as you are.
​​
​By participating in a Reiki session with Kristen Podulka, you acknowledge that Reiki is an alternative, complementary wellness practice that supports balance and relaxation. It is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or psychiatric care. Kristen Podulka is not a licensed physician, psychologist, or other licensed healthcare provider, and her services are not licensed by the State of California. Reiki practitioners do not diagnose or treat medical or mental health conditions, nor do they prescribe medication or offer medical advice. It is your responsibility to maintain an ongoing relationship with appropriate licensed medical and/or mental health professionals for any concerns related to your physical or psychological well-being.
History of Reiki
The story of Usui Reiki is a captivating blend of written history and oral tradition passed down over time. Legend has it that Mikao Usui, the founder, embarked on a remarkable journey of self-discovery. It's said that in 1922, he ventured into a 21-day meditation retreat atop Mount Kurama. During this transformative period, Usui underwent a profound spiritual awakening, birthing the Reiki healing system as we know it today.
​
Following Usui's passing in 1926, his devoted students, including Chujiro Hayashi and Hawayo Takata, carried forward his teachings. Hayashi dedicated himself to refining and expanding Usui's methods, eventually establishing a Reiki clinic in bustling Tokyo. Meanwhile, Takata, a Japanese-American, played a pivotal role in introducing Reiki to the Western world post-World War II.
​
Takata's tireless efforts fueled Reiki's rise in popularity across the United States. She skillfully adapted elements of Usui's teachings to resonate with Western culture, ensuring Reiki's accessibility to a wider audience. Thanks to her dedication, numerous Reiki masters emerged, spreading the practice far and wide, ultimately shaping Reiki into the global practice it is today.
As a practitioner deeply immersed in this lineage, I feel privileged to carry forward the tradition established by Usui Sensei. I belong to a vibrant community dedicated to preserving his legacy while exploring new applications for modern times. It's a journey of honoring ancient wisdom while embracing the potential of contemporary healing practices, all in service to well-being.