Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Here are some statistics –
Lung cancer is the #1 cause of cancer death in men and women
The lung cancer death rate in women has more than doubled over the past 38 years.
More people die of lung cancer than breast, colon and prostate cancers combined
Average 5-year survival rate for lung cancer overall is 17%
Average 5-year survival rate with early detection (at STAGE 1) is more than 90%
Exposure to radon and other chemicals in the environment can also cause lung cancer.
The American Lung Association has been infused with new energy thanks to the LUNGFORCE campaign. Their goals – Raise Awareness. Educate. Empower. Raise Funds. Reverse the Course of Lung Cancer.
LungForce Boston Expo – I recently attended the LUNGFORCE Boston Expo to hear medical providers give information about statistics, prevention, screening and treatment. Patients shared their stories about what it is lung to have lung cancer and go through treatment. There, I met people living beyond their prognosis; living and thriving.
Ways You Can Get Involved and Help Support Lung Health –
Lahey Healthcare offers FREE screeningg for those at risk of lung cancer. Contact them to see if you qualify for free screening. Other hospitals also have lung cancer CT screening programs. Ask your doctor about screening if you think you may be at risk for lung cancer.
Risks for lung cancer (from Mayo Clinic) –
Smoking. (Your risk of lung cancer increases with the number of cigarettes you smoke each day and the number of years you have smoked.)
Exposure to secondhand smoke.
Exposure to radon gas.
Exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens.
Family history of lung cancer.
The Centers for Disease Control has more information on lung cancer screening, who should be screened and pros/cons.
Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit
Attend the LungForce Expoand learn more about lung cancer, COPD, asthma and other respiratory issues, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Tuesday. November 1st. Boston Marriott Newton. 2345 Commonwealth Avenue. Newton, MA. For patients, care givers and health professionals.
Lung Cancer Statistics –
Lung Cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States.
1 out of 4 Cancer Deaths are from lung cancer.
More people die each year from lung cancer than colon, prostate and breast cancer combined
The rate of lung cancer in men has dropped 32% for men, but risen 94% for women
Prevention, Early Detection and Treatment Can Save Lives.
5 year survival rate for lung cancer is 55% when detected early (localized to the lung.)
Decrease Risk Factors –
Stop Smoking (Best thing you can do is ‘never start.’ )
Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke
Avoid exposure to radon* and other chemicals
Eat healthy, balanced meals with a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Exercise regularly. (Ask your doctor for recommendations.)
*Have your home tested for radon – Contact your local public health department or the American Lung Society for information on radon testing. More information on Radon Here.
‘Stop Smoking’ Today! Help is Available – Tobacco use and nicotine addiction is complex. Stopping smoking may require a comprehensive, collaborative approach.
Stopping Smoking is the Single Most Important Step you can take to improve their longevity and quality of life.
The GOOD News – The minute you stop smoking, your health begins to improve. Help and support are available for those that want to stop smoking.
Ask Your Physician – about your lung health, prevention of disease, screening, diagnosis, treatment and recommendations to stop smoking. If you have lung disease or have undergone lung surgery, ask about Pulmonary Rehabilitation.**
Dreamtime Wellness™ – Offers Smoking Cessation Programs. Ask about our programs and Free Consultation.
See you at the LungForce Expo!
Enjoy the Breath of Life, and a Healthier You, Karen
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.
Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit
Reiki for Seniors at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Sept. 16th 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 comfortand increased calm.
Reiki (ray-kee) – A Japanese Healing Method/Art offered through gentle touch or non-touch, creates a quick relaxing and calming effect.
Introduction to Reiki – Last year’s ‘Introduction to Reiki’ Talk at Central Grammar Senior Housing in Gloucester MA was well received and featured in the Gloucester Daily Times. Residents of Central Grammar participated in a ‘needs assessment.’ With a 30% return rate, 62% of the residents indicated that they would like a Reiki program. Seventeen residents attended our ‘Intro to Reiki Talk’ and 16 out of 17 (94%) indicated they would like a Reiki Program.
Gloucester Seniors – stop by the Rose Baker Senior Center for a brief session of Reiki with me and Advanced (3rd Degree/Okuden) Reiki Practitioner Suzanne Sweeney. Enjoy the peace, comfort and calm Reiki has to offer.
TestimonialAfter a Reiki Session With a Patient with Alzheimer’s – “This conversation is beautiful. I think I love you.” (From a gentleman with Alzheimer’s who initially was sitting alone, disengaged then, after a brief Reiki Session he began to speak. The nursing director of the facility said “I have been here 2 years and never heard him speak before.”)
It was if a ‘window had opened,’ enough for him to relate some of his life story. This experience was one of many that makes my works so JOYful. ~ Karen Pischke BSN, RN, Reiki Teacher
Things to Consider When Seeking Complementary and Integrative Therapies – Continue reading →
Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit
Walking on Cape Ann Just Got Easier! CATA offers public transportation to some of the Essex Greenbelt Trails on Cape Ann. For more information
Nature Offers Many Health Benefits for Mind, Body and Spirit. A favorite ‘go-to’ activity of mine is a walk in the woods. Luckily, living on Cape Ann one need only step outside to enjoy beautiful woodlands. Whether on a quiet, solo walk for meditation and contemplation, a trail run for aerobic exercise, or a hike with friends to explore the paths and virtues of Dog Town, walking in the woods calms the mind, energizes the body and lifts your spirits. The woods is my ‘happy place.’
Walking Cape Ann. Cape Ann has hundreds of acres of public, wooded paths. While you can create a relaxing ‘walk in the woods’ through guided imagery, visualization and self-hypnosis, actually being in the woods heightens the experience. Here, you can literally experience your breathing slow and your blood pressure lower as everyday stressors seemingly melt away.
Lost in the Woods. While I personally enjoy literally and figuratively ‘getting lost in the woods,’ I recommend you plan ahead and have a good map or a local to guide you and follow safety tips. ‘Thank you’ to Gloucester resident Claire who recently gave me a lift after I veered miles off my planned route! Join me for a walk in the woods if you like but do keep in mind, walking me with me can be an adventure. 😉
In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. ~ John Muir
I hope you make time to enjoy a relaxing walk in the woods this weekend. ~ 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. Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spiritwww.DreamtimeWellness.com. info@DreamtimeWellness.com. 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.
Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Breast Cancer Statistics – According to most recent statistics (2013) from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC):
Breast cancer occurs in both men and women.
230,815 women and 2,109 men in the United States were diagnosed with breast cancer.
40,860 women and 464 men in the United States died from breast cancer.
Early Detection Saves Lives – Research shows that early detection and treatment saves lives. Ask your doctor about prevention and routine screening for breast and other cancers.
“When breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 100%. Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams, and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms.” (National Breast Cancer Foundation.)
Lowering Your Risks of Breast Cancer. There are preventative measure for breast (and other) cancers. Tips from the Mayo Clinic for prevention –
Limit alcohol. Less than 1 drink per day is recommended.
Avoid smoking.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Engage in Physical activity. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training at least twice a week. Check with your doctor before exercising for guidelines and recommendations.
Breast-feeding might play a role in prevention.
Limit dose and duration of hormone therapy. Ask your doctor about recommendations and other non-pharmaceutical options.
Avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution. Medical-imaging methods, such as computerized tomography, use high doses of radiation. Limit exposure.
Ask Your Doctor. Talk to your doctor about recommendations for prevention and screening to see is best for you. Check with your insurance company to see what type of screening they cover. If you think you might be pregnant, let your doctor know before having a mammogram.
Information for Those Undergoing Treatment for Breast Cancer –
Supportive Care When Undergoing Treatment for Breast Cancer –
Integrative Medicine (IM) Therapies – Studies show that some IM therapiesmay help with symptom management, including anxiety, pain, fatigue, sleep and mood.
Ask your Oncologist about Integrative Therapies for adjunctive (supportive) treatment. Talk to your healthcare providers about any integrative, complementary or alternative therapies you are using. Let your healthcare providers know about any over-the-counter, herbal or vitamin supplements you are taking. Note: some may be contraindicated for your care. Discuss with your doctor/oncologist before pursuing.
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.
Free Lecture on Management with Dr. Candace Thompson, Medical Director Golden Living and Karen Pischke BSN, RN, Reiki Teacher this Wednesday. October 5th. 5:30 – 7 pm. Golden Living Gloucester – 272 Washington Street. Gloucester MA.
RSVP to Kathleen Hitchcock, Director of Admissions and Marketing. 978-281-0333 ext. 31.
Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit
NEW – Reiki for Seniors at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Sept. 16th 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 6 Manuel F. Lewis Street Gloucester, MA 01930. Ph: ( 978) 281-9765. Hours Monday – Friday 9:00am – 4:00 pm.
Note: For those 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 comfortand increased calm.
Reiki (ray-kee) – A Japanese Healing Method/Art offered through gentle touch or non-touch, creates a quick relaxing and calming effect.
Introduction to Reiki – Last year’s ‘Introduction to Reiki’ Talk at Central Grammar Senior Housing in Gloucester MA was well received and featured in the Gloucester Daily Times. Residents of Central Grammar participated in a ‘needs assessment.’ With a 30% return rate, 62% of the residents indicated that they would like a Reiki program. Seventeen residents attended our ‘Intro to Reiki Talk’ and 16 out of 17 (94%) indicated they would like a Reiki Program.
Gloucester Seniors – stop by the Rose Baker Senior Center for a brief session of Reiki with me and Advanced (3rd Degree/Okuden) Reiki Practitioner Suzanne Sweeney. Enjoy the peace, comfort and calm Reiki has to offer.
TestimonialAfter a Reiki Session With a Patient with Alzheimer’s – “This conversation is beautiful. I think I love you.” (From a gentleman with Alzheimer’s who initially was sitting alone and disengaged then, after a brief Reiki Session he began to speak. The nursing director of the facility said “I have been here 2 years and never heard him speak before.”) It was if a ‘window had opened,’ enough for him to relate some of his life story.
Things to Consider When Seeking Complementary and Integrative Therapies – Continue reading →
“Peace. It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.” -author unknown
Find a quiet spot to reflect, meditate, and pray today. Remembering the events of 9/11 can bring tears to some, fears for others. Hoping for peace in the hearts and minds of all those impacted.
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.
Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit
Waka directly translates as “Japanese poem.” Japan’s Emperor Meiji (November 3, 1852 – July 29, 1912) was born in Kyoto. He is said to have written 100,000 waka. This form of Japanese Poetry was part of the teachings of USUI Mikao Sensei’s Reiki Ryōhō, a Japanese Healing Art/Method that originated in 1922. The practice of reading waka is known as gyosei. Waka from the Emperor Meiji are read at the gatherings of the Reiki Gakkai, the original Reiki Association in Tokyo.
Meditative and Reflective Practices – Even during chaotic, unsettled and stormy times in our lives, learning and practicing meditation, reiki, tai chi, qi gong, yoga and other similar meditative and reflective practices can help one find a greater sense of inner peace and calmness.
‘Heart’ Waka from Emperor Meiji – As you read and reflect upon this waka titled ‘heart,’ may you also enjoy a sense of ‘peace, comfort and calm.’ Note the ‘rainbow’ cloud in the photo. In Japan, this type of cloud is known as zui un, and is considered to be an auspicious sighting. Please freely share this photo and waka.
Enjoy a Peaceful, Calm, and Relaxing Labor Day. – 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. Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spiritwww.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199 Contact information: Email – Info@DreamtimeWellness.com or Call – 978-283-4258.
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.
Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit
Tanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu!
August is a Big Birthday Month for Reiki Founders and Teachers. Reiki Ryôhô (ray-kee,) a Japanese Healing Method/Art, was first introduced in Japan in 1922 by Founder of Usui Shiki Ryôhô whose practice has spread throughout the world. Many hospitals in the United States incorporate Reiki, due to its ease of use and quick relaxation response that provides calming benefits for mind and body.
USUI Mikao Sensei (August 15, 1865 – March 9, 1926.) Usui Sensei was a scholar and sought-after teacher in Japan. Usui Sensei traveled throughout Japan teaching Reiki from 1992 – the time of his death in 1926. He is reported to have taught over 2,000 people prior to his death in 1926.
Phyllis Furumoto (August 22 – ) Mrs. Hawayo Takata’s granddaughter Phyllis Furumoto, Grandmaster of the Reiki Alliance, onethe first Reiki organizations in the United States.Phyllis is considered the ‘lineage bearer’ of her grandmother’s teachings. Phyllis currently lives in Arizona and travels internationally teaching Reiki. In a recent Global Reiki webinar Phyllis Furumoto mentions – “I do have several master candidates now …. and it may take a few more years to complete their preparation.”
~ Reiki Master Training – ‘years of preparation.’ Reiki ‘Mastery’ – ‘life-long’ learning and practice. ~
Elyssa Matthews(August 15 – ) Reiki Shihan/Japanese Gendai and Komyo Reiki Lineage. Elyssa shares a birthdate with founder Usui Sensei. Thanks to Elyssa, I first met my Reiki Teacher from Japan, INAMOTO Hyakuten Sensei when she hosted the 2008 Komyo Reiki Kai™ training for Reiki Teachers (Shihans.) Ten years into my Reiki practice, I felt another teacher was coming. March 2011, I had the opportunity to travel to Kyoto Japan with Elyssa to visit Sensei. Little did we know when we arranged this trip that the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami would occur. Our trip to Japan would become something much more than we expected, as we traveled to offer support and Reiki to the people of Japan. In addition to the devastation caused by the earthquake, tsunami and radiation, Japan was faced with a 4th disaster – financial loss. Many businesses and schools had withdrawn employees and students, and many tourists cancelled trips during the normally highly attended festival of Sakura, Cherry Blossom Festival.
Reiki Teachers/Shihans Elyssa Matthews and Karen Pischke with Komyo Reiki Kai™ Founder Hyakuten Inamoto Sensei. (Reiki Share at Daizen-in Temple. Kyoto Japan. April 2011.)
Nancy Earabino, (August 17th – ) Nancy, a nurse (formerly at Anna Jaques Hospital) and Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan provides Reiki for North Shore Medical Center’s (NSMC) Wellness and Integrative Medicine. Nancy and I coordinate a monthly Reiki Clinic at Lahey Outpatient Center in Danvers, along with volunteers Joan Charette, retired nurse from NSMC and Level 2 Reiki Practitioner, and Jean Walsh, RN, Advanced Reiki (3rd Degree/Usui Reiki Master.)
TODAY – August 19th we celebrate the birth of INAMOTO Hyakuten Sensei – (August 19 – ) Founder of Komyo Reiki Kai™. Hyakuten Sensei as he is affectionately known, is a non-sectarian Buddhist monk from Kyoto Japan. Hyakuten Sensei travels extensively around the world teaching Komyo Reiki, a simple Reiki System whose motto is – Place Hands. Surrender and Smile. Komyo Reiki Kai International Association™ offers set ‘Standards and Guidelines’ for Teaching. Komyo Reiki Kai InternationalMotto – Go Placidly in the Midst of Praise or Blame.
‘Introduction to Reiki.’ Central Grammar. Gloucester MA
REIKI for SENIORS in GLOUCESTER – In memory of Usui Sensei and in honor of Phyllis Furumoto and Hyakuten Sensei who have visited Cape Ann, we are beginning a ‘Reiki for Seniors’ Program in Gloucester. Suzanne Sweeney (Advanced Reiki Practitioner/3rd Degree Okuden) and I will be offering Reiki monthly at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Beginning September 16th. Held on ‘3rd Fridays.’ 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 15 minute chair Reiki session. Nominal fee – $5.00. Register in Advance to Reserve a Session – (978) 281-9765.
“Having Reiki made me want to sing. I think we should have it offered once a week.”
– Testimonial from Ruthanne (Rufus) Colinson (Resident and former Poet Laureate of Gloucester)
Stay Tuned – More on ‘Reiki for Seniors’ Coming Soon.
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.
Cape Ann Wellness 