Understanding Reiki
What Is Reiki?
Reiki (pronounced ray-key) is a calming energy practice that invites your body, mind, and spirit to rest and realign. It originated in Japan and is based on the idea that life force energy flows through all living things. When that energy is low or blocked, we may feel drained, off-balance, or disconnected. Reiki helps support and restore that natural energy flow—creating space for stillness, reflection, and a deeper connection to yourself. ​Reiki is not tied to any religion or belief system. You don’t have to believe in anything specific to benefit. Simply being open and curious is enough.
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How Does It Work?
Reiki is often described as a form of hands-off or light-touch energy work. At Palo Alto Reiki, I offer proximity Reiki—meaning I channel energy from across the room, without physical contact. This allows you to fully relax while feeling supported in a gentle, noninvasive way.
You’ll lie down fully clothed in a peaceful space while I guide the energy to where it’s needed most—often focusing on the body's energy centers, known as chakras. These centers correspond to different aspects of your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. When energy in a chakra becomes blocked or depleted, it may contribute to stress or imbalance. Reiki supports the natural flow and harmony of these energy centers. You might feel warmth, tingling, or nothing at all. Some people experience a floating sensation, emotional release, or deep stillness. Others simply enjoy the rare gift of slowing down. No two sessions are the same—Reiki flows intuitively, meeting you right where you are.​​​
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Who Is Reiki For?
Reiki is for anyone who feels drawn to pause, reconnect, and restore. You don’t need to be going through a major life event—or even consider yourself spiritual—to benefit. Reiki isn’t tied to any religion or belief system, and there’s nothing special you need to know or do to begin. This practice is open to all. Whether you're navigating change, feeling overwhelmed, seeking balance, or simply craving a quiet moment to yourself, Reiki offers gentle, noninvasive support. Those who benefit most tend to be open to the process, curious about their own growth, and willing to explore the subtle shifts that can unfold over time. Whether you’re brand new to energy work or well along your healing path, Reiki meets you exactly where you are.
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Reiki can be especially helpful if you're:
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Feeling overwhelmed, stressed or burned out
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Seeking clarity or peace of mind
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Wanting to feel more grounded and centered
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Craving time to just be
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Curious about energy and personal growth
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Looking to deepen your self-care or spiritual practice
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​What You Can Expect
Each session begins with a short check-in, followed by time to simply rest while the Reiki energy flows. Afterward, you’ll have a moment to reflect, ask questions, or share anything that came up for you. You might feel lighter, calmer, or more centered—but the real impact often continues to unfold in the hours or days after. Reiki does not diagnose or cure conditions, nor is it a replacement for medical or mental health care. It’s a complementary practice—one that supports your body’s natural ability to recharge and restore itself.
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A Note on Remote Sessions
Reiki is not limited by physical distance. Remote sessions are held via Zoom and are just as powerful. Many clients find them just as relaxing, if not more so, since they can receive the energy from the comfort of their own space.​​
​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.
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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.
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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.