September 5, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Heart Waka (Japanese Poetry) for Peace and Calm

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

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.

August 19, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

BIG ‘Birthday Month’ for Reiki: Founder Usui Sensei, Phyllis Furumoto, Hyakuten Sensei, and More.

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, one the 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 International Motto – Go Placidly in the Midst of Praise or Blame.

Go Placidly solid-rock

‘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.

Best in Health, Karen

August 13, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

‘To Cup or Not to Cup,’ That is the Question …

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Cupping – Giant, round bruises seen on Michael Phelps’ back and shoulders has drawn a lot of people’s attention during this year’s Olympics. You may also recall a similar reaction when actors Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Anniston, wearing backless dresses while walking the runway revealed the same bruising a number of years ago. All the attention has increased awareness of cupping as a means to ‘release tension; and ‘relax the muscles.’ Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been around for thousands of years, as practiced in China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. TCM practices may consist of a variety of techniques such as acupuncture, herbs, cupping, tui na, qi gong, and moxibustion.

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August 10, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Learn 1st Degree/Beginning Reiki on Cape Ann: Early Registration Discount Ends Tomorrow

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

First Degree/Shoden Reiki Training Offered on Cape Ann. This beginning level of Reiki focuses on ‘self-Reiki for self-care’ and self-healing. When we are in good balance and good health, we are more available to offer help to others.

Reiki Shoden/1st Degree Training – Friday. August 26th. 9:15 a.m. – 6 p.m. Held in a serene setting in Gloucester. NEW – Course material offered in English or Spanish. Additional self-study and supervised practicums are required for learning about offering Reiki to family/friends/pets and to achieve your Certificate of Completion at First Degree. (50 Hours.)

Transportation to Class from Boston – Transportation available via the MBTA Train/North Station to Downtown Gloucester. Shuttle service from the train station. Contact us for details.

Advance Registration and Payment Required. Contact us for details or to Register – 978-283-4258 or email: Info@ DreamtimeWellness.com or KomyoReikiKaiBoston@gmail.com. All Level of Reiki Training Offered.

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August 5, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Reiki Training August 26th – 1st Degree/Shoden

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Purpose of Learning ‘Reiki Ryoho’ (a Japanese Healing Art/Method) – Initially one learns Reiki for the ability to do ‘Self-Reiki;’ a method for Self-care and Self-healing. Then, with more practice and advanced training, you may want to offer Reiki to family, friends and pets, or even pursue Reiki as a Professional Practice.

Origin of Reiki Ryoho – 1922 in Japan with Founder USUI Mikao Sensei. Reiki Ryoho is a gentle and natural method for ‘inviting health and happiness.’ Usui Sensei taught Reiki as a means of shin shin kaizen or mind – body improvement.

Reiki Shoden/1st Degree Training – Friday. August 26th. 9:15 a.m. – 6 p.m. Held in a serene setting in Gloucester. NEW – Course material offered in English or Spanish. Additional self-study and supervised practicums are required for a Certificate of Completion at 1st Degree. (50 Hours) Advance Registration and Payment Required. Contact us for details or to Register – 978-283-4258 or email: Info@ DreamtimeWellness.com or KomyoReikiKaiBoston@gmail.com.

Komyo Reiki System – There are 4 Levels of Training in the Komyo Reiki System – A ‘Keep It Simple System’ from Founder of Komyo Reiki Kai™ INAMOTO Hyakuten Sensei. Hyakuten Sensei, a Non-Sectarian Buddhist monk from Kyoto Japan. Komyo Reiki Kai™ Motto – “Hands on. Nothing More.” Komyo Reiki Kai International ™ ‘Standards and Guidelines’ for (Teachers) and students can be found at – www.komyoreikikai.org.

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July 27, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Eat Your Vegetables, But Take Care ‘Fiddling’ With Fiddleheads

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Fiddlehead Ferns – Considered a gourmet, wild food found locally from April – July.

I was first introduced to fiddleheads in the 1980’s. A side dish sautéed by my friend Michael Claudio was a delicious accompaniment to one of his many amazing, gourmet meals.

Fiddlehead Nutrition Facts – Low in calories – 34. High in vitamin A (72%) and Vitamin C (44%) (per 100 grams.)

Shop Local. ‘Fresh is Best. Fiber is Filling.’ Though I occasionally had seen fiddleheads at local farm stands and produce stores since I first had them, I had never ventured to cook them myself. This spring I began seeing and enjoying fiddleheads on the menus of some higher end Cape Ann restaurants. Delicious! So when I saw them at a local farm stand (not on Cape Ann and whose name will remain anonymous!) I decided to add them to a meal I was preparing for friends.

Never having prepared fiddleheads, I sought recipes on-line and found a number of recipes that said basically the same thing – Wash. Cut off the brown ends of stems. Boil a couple of minutes. Then sauté in oil with salt and pepper. Some recipes indicated longer boiling, but also mentioned “chefs would be appalled at boiling away the nutrients.”

The group I had over for dinner were adventurous eaters (and adventurous in general.) All had previously prepared and eaten fiddleheads at their own homes. That evening, I chose to serve the fiddleheads ‘al dente.’ The feedback from the group – “Delicious.”

Fiddleheads

Can Fiddleheads Make You Sick?? The first clue that something was amiss was when shortly after our dinner guests departed, my husband said “I feel like I have a rock in my stomach.” Thinking he had merely eaten to excess, I didn’t think much of it until I also began to experience abdominal distress.

Without going into graphic detail, we both had little sleep that night. The next day I did an internet search – “Can fiddleheads make you sick?” Turns out, YES They CAN, and Did! I called my dinner guests; 5 out of 6 of us experienced GI distress that night. Being a prudent nurse, I notified the Gloucester public health department to see if they were aware of any outbreak of ‘food borne illness related to fiddleheads.’ Symptoms can include – nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea and headache. Had the symptoms continued and/or worsened, the pubic health nurse recommended a visit to the doctor. Luckily, the symptoms subsided within 8 – 12 hours. But in the meantime, a day of work was missed and I was appalled I had sickened new friends coming to my house for dinner for the first time.

The farm stand that sold them was notified, so they might pass on what I learned about cooking fiddleheads to consumers – Soak the fiddleheads in cold water. Scrub well. Scrub off any brown fronds. Drain. Soak again and drain. Boil fiddleheads for 7 – 10 minutes before sautéing. Do Not eat raw.

Avoiding Food-Borne Illness – Proper handling and cooking helps reduce your risk of food-borne illness related to the consumption of fiddleheads. Under no conditions should fiddleheads be consumed raw.

No More Fiddling With Fiddleheads For Me. I learned my lesson. Next time I plan to leave the fiddleheads to the cooking experts and read more ‘in-depth’ any cooking information before cooking any wild edibles. Also, from now on, my ‘first-time’ recipes will be limited to immediate family. Luckily, my dinner guests were able to laugh it off as an experience, and most thankfully …, the experience did not impact one iconic local rower’s attempt to win the International Dory Race! ;- ) I hope they all come back dinner sometime. I promise to skip the fiddleheads! 🙂

Wishing You the Best in Health, ~ 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 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.

Sources, Recipes and More Information on Fiddleheads –

July 16, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Massage, Reflexology, Reiki at Reid’s Ride ‘Wellness Tent’ at Stage Fort Park This Sunday

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

Come to Stage Fort Park in Gloucester this Sunday. July 17th. Meet ‘the force’ behind Reid’s Ride. Join Reid’s Family – Lorraine, Gene, Weston, Deb and Franck Sacco and their wonderful group of organizers and participants. So much positivity behind this group, you can’t help but ‘feel the force’ and get caught up in the wave of progress against cancer.

There is still time to participate in and donate to Reid’s Ride – https://www.firstgiving.com/Reidsride/2016REIDSRIDE. 28 Mile Bicycle Ride from Lynnfield MA high school to Gloucester MA Stage Fort Park.

Stage Fort Park will be hopping with activity at tomorrow’s (Sunday July 17th) Reid’s Ride. Overlooking beautiful Gloucester Harbor; great spot for a walk, picnic, volleyball, or simply enjoy the cooling waters of the Atlantic from one of 2 beaches.

Greet and cheer on the cyclists as they arrive at the end of their 28 mile ride to Stage Fort Park.

Stop by the Raffle Table at Stage Fort Park: Dinners, Red Sox tickets, a ‘Gift of Wellness’ Basket and much more!

Stop by the ‘Wellness Tent.’ A ‘DreamTeam’ of Volunteers and Professional Wellness Providers Are Offering Massage, Reflexology and Reiki. FREE to Reid’s Ride cyclists and volunteers; ‘By Donation’ to all others with 100% of the donations going to Reid’s Ride and the Reid R. Sacco Foundation for Adolescents and Young Adults (AYA) and AYA Programs at Tufts Medical Center and Connecticut Children’s Hospital.

Enjoy some cooling Dunkin’ Donuts iced coffee while you’re there!

To Support Reid’s Ride – You may also make contributions on-line, by going to the “Donations” page on www.eccf.org. Be sure to select the “Reid Sacco AYA Cancer Fund” in the drop-down menu when selecting the fund/organization for your contribution.

reid_sacco_life_is_like_sailing

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. ~ Margaret Mead

For More Information on Reiki and other Integrative Therapies offered as adjunctive/supportive care in the oncology setting –

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July 3, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Enjoy a Safe, Happy, and Healthy 4th of July

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Hope you enjoy a healthy, fun holiday BBQ! What’s on your menu? We are grilling some amazing looking fresh halibut from Turner’s Seafood. That along with a salad and side of fresh swish chard from our garden, grilled veggies from the Willow Rest, fresh corn on the cob from Marshall’s Farmstead, a healthy red-white-and blue dessert of organic strawberries, blueberries and fresh whipped cream from Common Crow Natural Market.

Here are some healthy, positive affirmations to help you stay on track over the holiday weekend –

‘Buy Local. Fresh Is Best.’ No shortage of healthy fresh food choices with all the Farmer’s and Fish Markets found on Cape Ann and… , ‘Healthy Tastes Good!’

‘Healthy is as Healthy Does’ – So for this Holiday Weekend and beyond… Fuel your mind with healthy thoughts. Fuel your body with healthy choices. Keeping in mind – ‘Everything in Moderation.’ 😉

‘Exercise/Energize’ ‘Exercise Makes Me Smile.’ – This is a great weekend to get out to enjoy nature on Cape Ann. Kayak or SUP the rivers and estuaries. Mountain bike or hike; Dogtown, Ravenswood and Coolidge Reservation are my favorite hiking spots. If you prefer a road bike, watch out for traffic; use the designated bike bath. Wear visible colors. No texting. Better yet, leave the cell phones in the car and enjoy the day.

Summer Sunset Over the Annisquam

Joey, I imagine you will have your Weber fired up. Enjoy!!

Vector Illustration for the 4th of July Independence bbq Square background.

Enjoy a Safe, Happy, and Healthy 4th of July Weekend Everyone. I’m heading out for a paddle on the Annisquam River. With beach traffic, by kayak or paddle board is a fun and easy way to get to Wingaersheek Beach. Hope to see you there. ~ Karen

July 1, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Relax – Celebrate – Donate: TWO July 5th Fundraisers for ‘Reid’s Ride’

Extend your 4th of July Relaxation and Celebration this Tuesday, July 5th-

RELAX. CELEBRATE. DONATE

40 Beach St. Manchester-by-the-Sea. (At Harbor Point. Near the Manchester MBTA Stop and Dunkin Donuts.)

Dine at La Casa de Luis for Reid’s Ride. 4 – 9 pm. A portion of the evening’s proceeds benefit Reid’s Ride. So much to choose from the menu. Try the healthy, fresh guacamole, delicious sizzling fajitas, and a margarita! If you prefer something lighter, try one of their amazingly fresh and tantalizing soups. The Caldo tlalpeño is one of my personal favorites, with a class of sparkling wine or a cup of tea. For Reservations Phone – 978-704-9599

Community Reiki Share for Reid’s Ride. Manchester Community Center. Enjoy a relaxing session of Reiki (ray-kee) while supporting this great cause. 5:15 – 8:15 pm. $20.00 Suggested Donation ($10.00 for Seniors.) 100% of the Donations go to Reid’s Ride. Register in Advance for a Reiki Session – Phone: 978-283-4258 or Email: info@DreamtimeWellness.com. Come early and enjoy a meditation and other aspects of Japanese Reiki. Or, stop by to for tea and healthy snacks and enjoy the ‘peace and calm.’ Drop-in to Donate.

Still time to Register to Ride for Sunday, July 17th ‘Reid’s Ride‘ Fundraiser – This 28 Mile bicycle ride goes from Lynnfield to Stage Fort Park Gloucester, MA. Donations to Reid’s Ride support the Reid R. Sacco Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Alliance, helping to change the course of cancer.

Reid’s Ride – A beautiful bike ride winding along the North Shore coastline to Cape Ann’s Stage Fort Park in Gloucester.

Stop by Stage Fort Park July 17th. Enter raffles; lots of great prizes: Red Sox tickets, dinners, spa packages and More. Stop by the Dream Team Wellness Tent and enjoy a session of massage, reflexology or reiki with views of Gloucester’s beautiful harbor. FREE to cyclists and volunteers; ‘by donation’ to others with 100% of the Wellness Tent donations going to Reid’s Ride. Join Us at Stage Fort Park July 17th!

Join the Sacco Family and Get Caught Up in Reid’s Dream –

‘Be the Force Behind the Winds of Progress to Shift the Course of Cancer.’

June 18, 2016 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Community Reiki Share for a Cause – Reid’s Ride

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

‘Community Reiki Share’ to Benefit ‘Reid’s Ride.’ Tuesday. July 5th.

‘Community Reiki Share.’ 5:15 pm – 8:15 pm at the Manchester Community Center. 40 Beach St. Manchester-by-the-Sea. On the MBTA Train line; wheelchair accessible. Reiki Sessions ‘By Donation.’ $20.00 suggested donation. ($10.00 for Seniors.) Make Checks Payable to ‘Reid’s Ride.’

To find out more about the July 17th Reid’s Ride and how you can participate and donate – https://www.firstgiving.com/Reidsride/2016REIDSRIDE. Join Lorraine and Deb Sacco and their wonderful group of organizers and participants. Just being there is energizing! Or, you may make your contributions on-line, by going to the “Donations” page on www.eccf.org. Be sure to select the “Reid Sacco AYA Cancer Fund” in the drop-down menu when selecting the fund/organization for your contribution.

So many lives…, family, friends, neighbors, co-workers have been touched by this disease. Join us and help raise money for this important cause while enjoying some ‘peace, comfort and calm’ at the July 5th Community Reiki Share.

Sunday. July 17th – Teams for Reid’s Ride bicycle 28 miles from Lynnfield to Stage Fort Park Gloucester MA, raising money to support Reid R. Sacco Foundation for Adolescents and Young Adults (AYA) and AYA Programs at Tufts Medical Center and Connecticut Children’s Hospital

Stop by Reid’s Ride on July 17th and Enjoy a Session of Wellness at the ‘Dream Team Wellness Tent’ at Stage Fort Park, Gloucester MA. (Massage, Reflexology, Reiki and More!) FREE to Participants of Reid’s Ride. ‘By Donation’ for others. You can also enter the raffles, including – ‘Basket of Wellness’ (value – $325.00) and many other prizes.

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. ~ Margaret Mead

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