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.

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.

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 →

February 1, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Go Red

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

Valentine’s Day is Just Around the Corner – Good reminder to take good care of yourself so you can enjoy more quality time with those you love.

Lecture – ‘Loving Others Begins With Loving Yourself. Self-Love Begins With Self-Care.’ Thursday. February 16th. 6:30 – 7:30 pm. Hearty healthy snacks and beverages will be available. Cost: ‘By Donation.’ Contact us for details and to register. Advance Registration Required.

Contact us for other wellness and self-care workshops available through Dreamtime Wellness™ (Ask in advance if you wish to receive continuing education contact hours/ceu’s for nurses, social workers, body workers and case managers for some workshops.)

February is a Big Month for ‘Heart Health’ Awareness –

Women’s Heart Week – First week of February.
‘Wear Red’ Day – February 3rd. #GoRedWearRed
National Heart Month – the entire month of February

‘Get Your Red On’ and Help Spread the Word.

Having worked in cardiac medical/surgical intensive care units, I know all too well the dire effects of heart disease. There has been progress made in prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease. Thankfully, people are living longer, healthier lives.

But the Fact Remains, Heart Disease is the #1 Cause of Death for Men and Women. (Deaths from cancer, a close second.)

Education for prevention, symptom awareness, early intervention and treatment of heart disease helps save lives. Healthy lifestyle management and decreased cardiac risk factors lead to healthier hearts and lives for All.

Some Cardiac Risk Factors Cannot Be Controlled: Age, gender, race, and family history.

The Good News – You can take steps for healthy lifestyles that prevent heart disease! Everything you do to prevent heart disease also helps prevent stroke. Ask Your Doctor.

Continue Reading for ‘Steps to a Healthier Heart’ – Continue reading →

January 25, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Exercise: How to Achieve Your Goals in 2017

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

It’s January, and Attendance at the Fitness Centers High. After the holidays, attendance at fitness centers increases as people focus on healthy New Year’s Resolutions and try to work off excess pounds and inches from holiday festivities. But, after the 1st month of the year, motivation tends to slide and attendance tends to drop off.

So What Can You Do?

Set goals. Make a plan with a short-term goal in mind. This can make it easier to achieve your desired results. Start with a goal for ‘today,’ then ‘this week,” this month.’ Goals should be short-term, realistic and attainable.

What are Your Goals for Exercise in 2017?

2. Keep At It – With repetition, the healthy steps you are taking become your new positive, healthy habits.

“It Takes 21 Days to Change a Habit.” How often have you heard this saying? Actually, there is no scientific evidence that supports this old adage and it is now considered a myth. A study in 2009 showed that when we want to develop a relatively simple habit like eating a piece of fruit or taking a 10 minute walk daily, it could take anywhere from 18 – 254 days of daily repetitions for the behavior to become a habit, with the average about 66 days. The simpler the task, like “drinking water every day” the easier for the task to be automatic.

The study concluded that “performing the behavior more consistently was associated with better model fit.” Also, that “missing one opportunity to perform the behavior did not negatively affect the habit formation process.” Simply put, repetition of a behavior in a consistent manner increases the likelihood of that behavior becoming your new norm.

3. Get Support to Help You Stay on Track.

Continue reading →

January 15, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Winter Sports at Gloucester’s Seine Field

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.” – Robert Frost

Seine Field is an Essex Greenbelt Property – A beautiful spot in East Gloucester near Bass Rocks. If you didn’t know to look for it, you might blink and miss it. Look for the Greenbelt sign. There is room for 2 – 3 cars at the entrance on East Gloucester Road.

Seine Field’s Tie to Gloucester Fishing History and Culture – For over a century, local fisherman used the field to spread out and dry their large nets (“seines”) in the sun and make any necessary repairs. The seine boats (and their crews) are iconic and have been immortalized by artists and photographers for generations. Seine boat fishing is celebrated at the annual Seine Boat Races held every June during St. Peter’s Fiesta.”

A Place to X-Country and Snow Shoe – In milder weather, Seine field is great for a leisurely walk. Covered with snow, the field is perfect for a quick snow shoe or x-country ski. Seine field’s circumference is about 1 mile. After the first snow of 2017, my husband and I ventured here to x-country. We made tracks in the virgin snow, then skied around the field, changing directions and skiing for an hour to get in a descent workout. One hour of x-country skiing = 400 – 500 calories expended; a welcome caloric burn post-holidays. We delighted in the bluebird sky, sunshine, and a red tail hawk sitting in a tree. St. Peter’s Fiesta and boating were a distant memory while out on this frozen field.

Courtesy Kim Smith. Lock and Load Seine Boat. Fiesta 2015. https://kimsmithdesigns.com/

New to snow shoeing or cross-country skiing? With enough snow, Seine Field is an easy place to begin and a great way to enjoy exercising and meditating in nature. – Karen Pischke

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

January 14, 2017 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Time for a Big MAC Attack!

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

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

No, NOT this kind of Big Mac ….

… THIS Kind of BIG MAC –

Join Today/Come Often is the Motto at the MAC. I recently renewed my membership and made a commitment to myself to attend regularly. Whether at the Big MAC, Little MAC, or any of the number of fitness centers on Cape Ann, the key is to find at least one, two or three exercises you enjoy, can afford, and that fit into you lifestyle. Then, make time to engage in them regularly. Mix it up and have FUN! Continue reading →