April 29, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Meditation and Relaxation Offerings: April 30 – May 7th

Your Bridge to Health; Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body and Spirit

Sunday April 30th. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Make Every Day ‘Earth Day! ‘

(This ‘Earth Day Celebration’ was RESCHEDULED Due to Weather.) This Sunday looks like the weather is going to cooperate. 🙂

Shinrin-yoku, (forest bathing) is the Japanese practice of making contact with and taking in the atmosphere of the forest.

Join us for a gentle walk and meditation in nature and experience the health benefits. ‘By Donation.’

On this leisurely walk you will be encouraged to use all of your senses as you allow the beautiful setting in nature to lower your stress levels, boost your immune system and improve your overall health. No experience with meditation necessary.

Tuesday May 2nd Community Reiki Share. 5:15 – 8:15 pm. (*Reiki Practitioners can come early for special Japanese Reiki Hatsurei Ho Mediation – 4:30 pm.) Manchester Community Center, Manchester-by-the-Sea. ‘By Donation.’

Enjoy a relaxing Reiki Session and enjoy the potential benefits of increased comfort, calm, and a greater sense of inner peace.

Sunday May 7th Come to the Magnolia Library and Community Center ‘Spring Market’ – 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Looking for a Gift for Mother’s Day? Lots of local vendors will be there.

Dreamtime Wellness™ will be there offering discounted gift certificates and self-hypnosis CD’s for ‘Optimal Wellness’ and ‘Sound Sleep.’

** Simple relaxation exercises will be offered at ALL 3 Events.**

A few minutes of relaxation each day offers a variety of health benefits.

For more details and to register – info@dreamtimewellness.com or phone – 978-283-4258.

Best in health, Karen

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., C.C.R.N. Alumnus. Author. Speaker. Researcher. Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Reiki Teacher/Shihan, Tobacco Treatment Specialist. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness LLC. Your Bridge to Health. Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body and Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussion about health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately licensed physician or other health care worker. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which the authors are affiliated.

April 15, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Forest Bathing; Earth Day Celebration April 22nd

Your Bridge to Health; Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body and Spirit

Earth Day. Saturday April 22nd. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Gloucester MA.

Shinrin-yoku, (forest bathing) the Japanese practice of making contact with and taking in the atmosphere of the forest. Studies show that forest environments:

promote lower concentrations of cortisol (stress hormone,)
lower pulse rate,
lower blood pressure,
boost the immune system,
lower sympathetic nerve activity (decreased stress)
greater parasympathetic nerve activity (increased relaxation.)

Join us for a gentle walk and meditation in nature and experience the health benefits of shinrin-yoku. On this leisurely walk you will be encouraged to use all of your senses as you allow the beautiful setting in nature to lower your stress levels, boost your immune system and improve your overall health. No experience with meditation necessary.

Simple breathing relaxation and meditation exercises will be taught.

Advance Registration Required. Register Early (Limited to 10 people.) ‘By Donation.’ For more details and to register – info@dreamtimewellness.com or phone – 978-283-4258.

However you choose to celebrate Earth Day, be sure to spend some time enjoying the natural beauty of Cape Ann. Best in health, Karen

March 29, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Colorectal Cancer on the Rise in Young Adults

Your Bridge to Health; Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

March is Colon-Rectal Cancer Awareness Month –

According to the American Cancer Society, “Thanks in part to improvements in screening, the rates of new colon and rectal cancer diagnoses have been falling in the United States for people ages 50 and older. But for people under 50, for whom routine screening is not recommended, rates seem to be increasing significantly,” especially among Generation Xers.

Prevention, Screening, Early Detection and Treatment of Colon-Rectal Cancer SAVES LIVES!

Talk to Your Doctor About Screening.

Signs of Colorectal Cancer can include changes in bowel movements and blood in the stool. But cancer of the colon and/or rectum (colorectal cancer) can begin without symptoms, which is why early screening is important. Pre-cancerous and benign polyps can be removed before they become cancer. While routine screening often begins at 50, screening for those at higher risk may begin as early as 30’s. If you or your family have a history of colorectal cancer, benign colorectal polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease,) you may need to begin screenings earlier than age 50.

Continue reading →

March 15, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

#NationalKickButtsDay

Your Bridge to Health; Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body and Spirit

In Case You Missed This Earlier Post …. March 15th Was #NationalKickButtsDay

You Still CAN DO It!

Kick Butts Day is organized by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids and sponsored by the United Health Foundation. The first Kick Butts Day was held in 1996.

Talk to your doctor about group and individualized treatment programs for smoking cessation. Stopping smoking can be a challenge. Medications for tobacco treatment along with tobacco treatment counseling may make it easier. Ask your doctor if you are a candidate for Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT,) Zyban (Wellbutrin) or Chantix.

Addiction is a ‘disease of the brain.’Nicotine addiction is no exception, and the cigarette companies know as much about the addiction pathway as healthcare providers, finding ways to make cigarettes more addictive so they can sell more cigarettes.

Collaborative, comprehensive, supportive programs make it easier to stop.

Benefits of Stopping Smoking – Click here to see the immediate and long-term benefits for your health and BREATHE EASIER.

Make Smoking History – 1-800-quitnow and www.smokefree.gov offer FREE Help.

Dreamtime Wellness™ offers smoking cessation and tobacco treatment counseling combined with integrative therapies that can help make it easier to stop. Ask about special discounts for veterans cancer patients. Call – 978-283-4258…. Or email -Info@dreamtimewellness.com.

Stop Smoking, and Enjoy the Breath of Life, Karen

Karen Pischke BSN, RN, CCRN Alumnus. Certified Hypnotherapist, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness LLC. Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussion about health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately licensed physician or other health care worker. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which the authors are affiliated.

March 6, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Celebrating Small Business National ‘Be Heard’ Day

Today is Small Business National ‘Be Heard’ Day. Join us in celebrating Cape Ann’s many small businesses and the entrepreneurial spirit that is vital to America’s way of life. #NationalBeHeardDay.

GloucesterTEASE™ is a new women-owned small business on Cape Ann. On National ‘Be Heard’ Day we’re giving a ‘shout out’ to other businesses and residents of Cape Ann. We believe in the concept of ‘Think Globally/Act Locally.’ With that in mind we offer high quality apparel that is locally designed and manufactured (Made in the USA) with a global mission of offering messages to spread positivity, optimism and peace.

We also celebrate and promote the City of Gloucester MA – Which We LOVE, and where we live, work and play.

“Together Everyone Achieves Something Extraordinary™” Our tag-line reflects the Community Spirit found here on Cape Ann. From Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken, to the many charitable organizations (too many to name here!) and the many residents of Cape Ann that ‘Give Back’ and/or ‘Pay it Forward.’ The diverse businesses that make up our community and support one another. Special thanks to GMG’s Joey Ciaramitaro, whose blog helps support local businesses while profiling the City of Gloucester’s many attributes ‘over the bridge’ and out into the world.

GloucesterTEASE™ goals include involving local designers and manufacturers, supporting local community, and offering a percentage of our profits to support initiatives for health, peace initiatives, and animal welfare.

Our T-Shirts are available at the Willow Rest, located at 1 Holly St., Gloucester MA. ‘Thank You’ Melissa Donati for all that you do to support local businesses! You can also find our apparel on-line – Stylish, soft, durable and FUN.

COMING SOON to Animal Krackers at 232 Main St. Gloucester MA – GloucesterTEASE™ Pet Bandanas promoting ‘Love and Peace.’

Quinn Sharing GloucesterTEASE™ LOVE

‘Catch the Wave’ and Join Us in Spreading Optimism, Peace and FUN. 🙂

Cape Ann Small Businesses – Let Your Entrepreneurial Spirit Be Heard!

FOB, Let Us Know Your Favorite Small Business on Cape Ann, and Why.

March 3, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Reiki: “Try It. You Might Like It.”

Your Bridge to Health; Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body and Spirit

Remember the old cereal commercial with the little boy Mikey? “Try It. You Might Like It.”

Reiki Ryoho is a Japanese Healing Method/Art that began in Japan in 1922 with Founder USUI Mikao Sensei. Reiki (ray-key) sessions are offered through light (or non) touch and without manipulation. With the recipient fully clothed, either lying or seated. Sessions generally create a relaxation response with potential benefits of:

relief of tension (emotional and physical)
increased calm
improved comfort
improved sleep
a greater sense of inner peace.

Each reiki session is unique in how it is experienced. Due to its ease of use, gentle nature and quick relaxation response, many hospitals and healthcare settings incorporate Reiki in oncology, rehabilitation, pain management, and hospice settings. Generally, those receiving a reiki session report a general sense of calmness afterwards, along with varied experiences of sensation (warmth the most common.) One client reports, “Every session is different. And every session is wonderful.”

~ Reiki can best be described through the personal experience of a session. ~

‘Community Reiki Share.’ Tuesday. March 7th. 5:15 pm – 8:15 pm At the Manchester Community Center. 40 Beach St. Manchester-by-the-Sea. Advance Register – info@dreamtimewellness.com.

‘Community Reiki Shares’ are held ‘First Tuesdays’ of the month at the Manchester Community Center. 40 Beach St. Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA. On the MBTA Train line; wheelchair accessible. Reiki Sessions ‘By Donation.’ $20.00 suggested donation. ($10.00 for Seniors, Veterans and those in treatment for cancer.) Participate in some or all of the evening and enjoy the sense of ‘peace, comfort and calm’ that a reiki session can provide.

‘Reiki Shares’ are provided monthly by Dreamtime Wellness™ as an affordable way to ‘try it‘ and see how you might benefit. ‘Reiki Shares’ also support our reiki students in training, seasoned practitioners, and the community. Join as an observer, a practitioner, or come to enjoy a reiki session, meditation and other aspects of Japanese Reiki practices.

Reiki is also offered ‘3rd Fridays’ at the Rose Baker Senior Center. 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. To schedule a session at the Rose Baker Senior Center call: 978-282-6975

Private Reiki Sessions are available at 2 convenient office settings (the North Shore Medical Dental Center and Lahey Danvers Outpatient Center.) Home, hospice and hospital visits are also available upon request.

Contact us regarding informational lectures and programs in your facility. Ask about our Continuing Education offerings for nurses, doctors, social workers and case managers.

Ask Your Doctor. Reiki and other complementary therapies are not meant to be used ‘in place of’ conventional healthcare but as adjunctive (supportive) measures as part of a collaborative and integrative healthcare approach. Before using complementary therapies talk to your doctor. If you are already using complementary therapies, let your healthcare provider know. For more information on integrative therapies – http://nih/nccih.gov

Partnering with charitable causes to help others in need. A portion of our Community Reiki Share proceeds are donated to charities, local and abroad. Contact Us if you are a 501(c)3 that would like to partner with us to receive donations from our monthly Community Reiki Shares – Phone: 978-283-4258 or Email: info@dreamtimewellness.com. Together we can do more.

Welcome Home Cape Ann Veterans! The ‘Welcome Home Cape Ann Initiative’ is welcoming home veterans. A portion of this month’s Reiki Share donations will be offered to benefit these veterans, in appreciation for their service and to support them in a smooth transition back home to Cape Ann.

Relax, and enjoy today, Karen

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., C.C.R.N. Alumnus. Certified Hypnotherapist, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness LLC. Your Bridge to Health. Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body and Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199.

February 19, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

‘Reiki for Residents’ at Golden Living February 21st

Your Bridge to Health; Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body & Spirit

Reiki for Relaxation, Comfort and Calm – Reiki (ray-kee) will offered to residents at Golden Living Center Gloucester. Tuesday, February 21st. 2 pm – 3:30 pm.

Golden Living Residents can sign up through the Activities Department. Family members and health care agents can sign up loved ones unable to sign themselves up (Alzheimer’s, dementia, post-stroke, or other cognitive issues.) Attention is paid to comfort, safety, hygiene and confidentiality.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Reiki is considered generally safe and has the potential benefits of relief of stress and anxiety, improved comfort and increased calm.

Continue reading →

February 16, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Use Caution in the Snow

Your Bridge to Health; Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body and Spirit

Another Winter Storm for Gloucester and Cape Ann. Be careful out there!

Stay off streets as much as possible so the plows can do their job. Shovel out fire hydrants from the snow.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors – Check-in on those that are ill or elderly.

Today’s snow is wet and heavy, creating increased risk of injury and heart attack for those shoveling. Hire a plow or a neighbor to help. If you do have to shovel or use a snow blower, follow the safety tips in the link below.

Be Careful Driving and Walking in the Snow.

If you have to get out, drive slow. Use extra caution. Wear sturdy boots with good traction and bright colors for visibility. Be safe and walk with grace.

Avoid Heart Attack and Injury. People with heart, lung and other illnesses should ask their physician for advice and recommendations before shoveling or snow blowing.

Some tips from the American Heart Association and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons:

Continue reading →

February 16, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Reiki for Seniors – Tomorrow at the Rose Baker Senior Center

Your Bridge to Health; Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Reiki for Seniors at the Rose Baker Senior Center. February 17th and every ‘3rd Friday’ of the month. 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 pm. 15 minute chair reiki sessions for a nominal donation. Sign up in advance by calling – Rose Baker Senior Center Ph: ( 978) 281-9765.

Rose Baker Senior Center – 6 Manuel F. Lewis Street Gloucester, MA

Note: For people with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or Dementia, family health agents may sign a simple consent form for their loved ones to receive Reiki. This Reiki Program for Seniors is coordinated by a registered nurse and Reiki will be offered by experienced, advanced Reiki Providers that are licensed or certified, and insured. Attention is paid to safety, hygiene and confidentiality. People receiving Reiki may feel free to stop a session at any time. Most people report feeling “very relaxed,” “calm” and “peaceful.” According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Reiki is considered generally safe and has the potential benefits of relief of stress and anxiety, improved comfort and increased calm.

Continue reading →

February 8, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Smile and Express Gratitude: It’s Good for Your Health

Your Bridge to Health; Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body and Spirit

A Smile Has Health Benefits for Mind, Body and Spirit. Research shows that the simple act of smiling, even when you don’t feel like it activates the brain’s neural messaging system with a variety of health benefits. No prescription needed, and no adverse side effects.

“Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

How Smiling Affects Your Brain. ‘Feel good’ neurotransmitters are released.

Release of dopamine (mediates pleasure in the brain, improves focus and attention.)
Release of endorphins (natural pain relief.)
Release of serotonin (improves mood.)
Muscle relaxation (relief of muscle tension.)
Lowering of blood pressure and heart rate.
Neuropeptides are also released (decreases stress and inflammation.)

Continue reading →