July 7, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Happy Birthday to the Dalai Lama: ‘Loving Kindness’ Meditation Used in Healthcare

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

Happy Birthday to Nobel Peace Prize Winner, the Dalai Lama. July 6th was the Dalai Lama’s 80th Birthday. This seems a good time to be blogging about ‘peace and compassion.’ For his birthday, the Dalai Lama has asked that people share his ‘8 Lessons.’ Here they are –

8 Lessons on Life from the Dalai Lama (As seen in the Huffington Post.)

Live life with a free mind and an open heart.
Practice “universal compassion.”
Redesign the way we educate.
Stand up against injustice.
Make humanity the bottom line of business.
Always lend a helping hand.
Play your part in healing the Earth.
Use your personal power to be a force for good.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/07/06/dalai-lama-birthday-lessons_n_7697616.html

‘Loving Kindness Meditation,’ and its Use in Healthcare –

Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

The results of this pilot study – “overall, loving-kindness meditation appeared safe and acceptable and was associated with reduced symptoms of PTSD and depression. Additional study of loving-kindness meditation for PTSD is warranted to determine whether the changes seen are due to the loving-kindness meditation intervention versus other influences, including concurrent receipt of other treatments.”

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23893519

A Tool to Improve Healthcare Provider Compassion, Resilience, and Patient Care.

http://ccare.stanford.edu/article/loving-kindness-meditation-a-tool-to-improve-healthcare-provider-compassion-resilience-and-patient-care/#sthash.m8M8xriS.dpuf

The Summer of Peace. Stanford University is hosting a global compassion summit. July 7 – 9th.

http://ccare.stanford.edu/events/global-compassion-summit/

“Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive.” ~ Dalai Lama XIV. The Art of Happiness.

Celebrating the Summer of Peace

‘Peace within,’ has a way of rippling out to others. May You Enjoy a ‘Summer of Peace’ here on Cape Ann, and wherever you go, or wherever you are. Peace. ~ Karen

For more information and research on mindful meditation, ‘loving-kindness’ meditation, and other relaxation tools for stress and pain management, you can contact me via email – info@dreamtimewellness.com.

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & 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.

July 2, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Reiki Share to Benefit ‘Reid’s Ride’ – Raising Funds for Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

July 7th. ‘Community Reiki Share’ to Benefit ‘Reid’s Ride.’

‘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 Reid’s Ride and how you can participate and donate – http://www.firstgiving.com/Reidsride/2015-11th-annual-reids-ride. Join Lorraine and Deb Sacco and their wonderful group of organizers and participants! Just being there is energizing!

Each month a local charity is designated to receive a portion of the proceeds. Using ‘Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs’ to select which charity to team with, the first step being – Basic Physiological Needs (Air, Water, Food, Shelter.) The steps to ‘Realizing One’s Full Potential!’

Charities we have partnered with include – Open Door Food Pantry, Beverly Boot Straps, (January,) Wellspring House (February,) Action Inc. (March,) Cape Ann Animal Aid (April,) SeniorCare, Inc. (May,) Relay for Life, Cape Ann (June,) and for July – Reid’s Ride.

July 19. Teams participate and bicycle from Lynnfield to Stage Fort Park Gloucester MA to raise money to support the Reid R. Sacco Foundation for Adolescents and Young Adults – http://www.cancerinyoungadults.org/about-the-alliance/

Too many lives…, my family, friends, neighbors, and patients 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 7th Community Reiki Share!

Continue reading →

July 1, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Despite Torrential Rain, NSMC Cancer Walk a Success!

A Good Day for Ducks, Fund Raising and Lots of Enthusiasm! Sunday’s weather brought torrential rain, but it didn’t keep participants from walking at the 25th Anniversary North Shore Medical Center’s Cancer Walk. Over 2,000 people walked in the midst of the storm.

Lynn Daily Item Report – http://www.itemlive.com/news/cancer-walk-rains-in-money/article_c8aed3c4-1e18-11e5-aee9-2bfc34f2cd78.html

Most people planned ahead and prepared for the rain …,

NSMC Cancer Walk 2015 Enthusiastic Wet Crowd

A Wet But Enthusiastic Crowd.

Seeking Shelter From the Rain.

NSMC Cancer Walk Finish Line FullSizeRender

Congratulations!

… but a few were caught out in the cold in just shorts and a tee-shirt. One lucky dog was able to snag a poncho and find shelter under a table.

Congratulations to all the walkers! Some were walking for themselves, others in memory and in honor of loved ones. One woman told me after she, “I lost 50 pounds to get in shape for the walk,” and was “walking in memory of her father.” He must be so proud! One thing for sure ….

You’ve Got to Have Heart

and HOPE Never Stops!

HOPE

~ Remembering those we’ve lost. ~ Honoring and supporting those in treatment. ~

~ Commemorating survivors. ~ With Gratitude. ~

Continue reading →

June 24, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

NSMC Cancer Walk – Celebration of Life, Hope and Courage. This is Worth Going Over the Bridge For!

A Celebration of Life, Hope and Courage. NSMC Cancer Walk. Sunday. June 28th. 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. At the Salem Willows.

This Year is the 25th Anniversary of the North Shore Medical Center’s Cancer Walk. Money raised from the North Shore Cancer WALK/RUN will support the construction of the new inpatient oncology unit at North Shore Medical Center as well as wellness services and support programs at the Mass General/North Shore Cancer Center in Danvers, MA.

This event is worth going ‘over the bridge’ for! Cape Ann/Gloucester has a wonderful oncology department at Addison Gilbert, but many Cape Ann and north shore residents also use the facilities at MGH/NS Cancer Center in Danvers for cancer treatment and follow-up.

For information on this event, to participate or donate –

http://events.salem.org/event/nsmc_cancer_walk#.VYqgJ-uvv1o

https://www.facebook.com/NorthShoreCancerWALKRUN

https://nsmcgiving.partners.org

Sample Reiki Sessions from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the ‘Wellness Tent.’ Free to participants of the Relay. ‘By Donation’ for others. (100% of Donations to Benefit the NSMC Cancer Walk.) Come and enjoy a sample of Reiki for ‘relaxation, rest and renewal.’ (Massage Therapists will be there too!) Dreamtime Wellness™ will be there, along with nurse Nancy Earabino, a Reiki Teacher and Reiki Provider for NSMC Wellness.

Reiki – (ray-kee) is a Japanese Healing Method/Art that began in 1922 with founder, Mikao Usui Sensei. Reiki sessions are offered through light (or non) touch and without manipulation. Generally considered safe, Reiki is offered in the oncology settings as part of comprehensive integrative medicine departments. Preliminary studies indicate a potential for relief of anxiety and pain with Reiki. More rigorous, larger studies are needed.

Reiki in Hospitals and Healthcare

Integrative Healthcare – Key words – Collaborative, Comprehensive, Safe, Effective, Care. In the oncology setting, complementary integrative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, meditation, Reiki and yoga are offered primarily as supportive care for symptom management, such as:

Relief of anxiety,
Improved sleep,
Improved comfort,
Improved quality of life,
Greater sense of wellbeing.

Note – Reiki and other Complementary Therapies are not meant to replace or ‘take the place of” conventional (western/mainstream) medicine, but are best offered ‘in combination’ and after rigorous studies have been done to verify safety and effectiveness. “Integrative medicine“combines mainstream medical therapies and Complementary and Integrative medicine (IM) therapies for which there is some high-quality scientific evidence of safety and effectiveness.”

Ask your physician/oncologist beforehand about using CAM. Start the conversation – If you are using CAM therapies, let your physician/oncologist know. **Some supplements/herbs/over the counter medications may interact with and/or negatively affect your treatment. ‘When in doubt, check it out’ and talk to your physician! Trust, rapport and open communication are important for safe, effective care.

Sources and more information on Reiki Therapy and other Complementary & Integrative Therapies for patients undergoing treatment for cancer and how to choose a qualified provider –

Having offered Reiki as the RN/Reiki Provider at NSMC for 12 years and the MGH Cancer Center for 9 years, this event is especially close to my heart. During that time, I saw many of my friends, neighbors and their families when they were there for cancer treatment. It was an honor and a privilege to help support them through their care and hopefully make their treatment more bearable, and their lives a little more comfortable. ~ Karen Pischke BSN, RN, Reiki Provider & Teacher

Patients receiving Reiki while undergoing treatment for cancer have often relayed “a greater sense of HOPE.”

“Hope is the thing with feathers– That perches in the soul– And sings the tune without words– And never stops–at all…” – Emily Dickinson

Bird feather on water surface with free space for text

HOPE Never Stops

~ Remembering those we’ve lost. ~ Honoring and supporting those in treatment. ~

~ Commemorating survivors. ~ With Gratitude. ~

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Reiki Teacher/Shihan, Tobacco Treatment Specialist. In addition to a private wellness business, Karen has been employed as the RN/Reiki Provider and Hypnotherapist at NSMC, RN/Reiki Provider at Mass General Cancer Center (Danvers and Boston,) and currently is the RN/Reiki Provider at Lahey Danvers Outpatient Center/for the Pain Management Integrative Healthcare. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Since 2000. Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit. More information can be found at –www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

June 21, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Summer Solstice Celebration and Meditation Event

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

Summer Solstice Celebration and Meditation Event. Monday. June 22. 5:30 – 8:00 pm. Learn and participate in simple meditation techniques as we celebrate the long-awaited beginning of summer.

June 21st is the official Summer Solstice. This marks the beginning of summer and longest amount of daylight. An especially welcome sight for many after New England’s harsh winter!

This event begins with ‘tea and conversation’ at Gloucester’s beloved Willow Rest Restaurant. Fun, funky, and always interesting, the Willow Rest Restaurant at 1 Holly St. is a great starting point for the evening. Here you will enjoy local fare while receiving orientation to meditation.

Fresh Food and Fun at the Willow Rest Restaurant

Space is limited. Advance Registration Required. $20.00 per person. To Register – Contact us at info@dreamtimewellness.com or Call 978-283-4258. Plan ahead! (Weather permitting, some of this event will be held outdoors in nature and in the woods.) Bring bug spray (tick and mosquito,) a hat, drinking water and a blanket or folding chair. Light colored clothes, light-weight long sleeve shirt, pants and sturdy walking shoes advised.

Weather permitting, we will enjoy a ‘walking meditation’ in Gloucester’s historic dog down. No meditation experience necessary. Instruction will be given and guided meditation offered.

Goose Cove Reservoir

‘Meditation made easy’ – the goal of this event. Meditation can be easy with simple instruction. Join us for this peaceful, relaxing event and enjoy the health benefits of meditation. Contact us for details and to register.

Sunset Over the Annisquam Welcoming Summer Solstice

Happy Solstice! ~ Karen

June 19, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Reiki Sample Sessions Offered at Relay for Life, Cape Ann. Saturday. June 20th

Relay for Life Cape Ann

Saturday. June 20th. Relay for Life, Cape Ann. https://www.facebook.com/RFLCapeAnn

In its 14th year the Relay for Life, Cape Ann raises money for the American Cancer Society. www.cancer.org.

Relay for Life, Cape Ann. 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm. Burnham Field. Gloucester MA.

To find out more about the Relay for Life and how you can donate –

http://relay.acsevents.org/site/PageServer?pagename=relay&gclid=CjwKEAjw2ImsBRCnjq70n_amv14SJAChXijNp8Zf6-booTwVcvLzEMaG31vveM7DlrXCUpMBe0O38RoCTxbw_wcB

Sample Reiki Sessions from 3:00 – 7:00 pm at the Survivors Tent.

Free to participants of the Relay. ‘By Donation’ for others. (100% of Donations to Benefit the Relay for Life.) Join us if you can, and enjoy a sample of Reiki for relaxation, rest and renewal.

Reiki in Healthcare and Hospitals

Having worked with many patients/clients receiving treatment for cancer, initially as a bedside nurse and now as an RN/Reiki Provider, this event speaks to my heart. These patients undergoing treatment for cancer and receiving Reiki have relayed “a greater sense of HOPE.”

“Hope is the thing with feathers– That perches in the soul– And sings the tune without words– And never stops–at all…” – Emily Dickinson

HOPE Never Stops

~ Remembering those we’ve lost. Honoring and supporting those in treatment. ~

~ Commemorating survivors …, with Gratitude. ~

June 18, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Continuing Education Lecture for Healthcare Providers – Introduction to Reiki

Introduction to Reiki Ryoho in Healthcare. Lecture. Monday. June 22. 8:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m. Beverly Hospital Lecture Hall. 85 Herrick St. Beverly, MA.

Begins with a networking breakfast followed by a one hour lecture. Learn about the history of Reiki Ryoho (Japanese Healing Method/Art,) its use in healthcare, potential benefits and related research. Reiki is offered in integrative healthcare programs and hospital programs in the U.S.

Reiki Ryoho in Healthcare and Hospitals

A Sen-Net meeting. Sponsored by Lahey Senior Care, a Division of Lahey Health.

Continuing Education for Nurses, Case Managers and Social Workers. This continuing nursing education activity has been approved by the Northeast Multi-State Division (NE-MSD), an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. This program has been pre-approved by The Commission for Case Manager Certification to provide continuing education credit to CCM board certified case managers. “This program has been approved for 1.0 Social Work Continuing Education hours for relicensure, in accordance with 258 CMR. Collaborative of NASW and the Boston College and Simmons Schools of Social Work.

Advance Registration Required – To Register, contact Paul D. Rapazzo, Director of Community Relations, The Herrick House. 89 Herrick St. Beverly, MA. 01915-2721. Office :978-524-4292. Fax:978-922-3402. Register by June 19th.

June 17, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Golfing Cape Ann and Special Gifts for Father’s Day

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

Father’s Day is almost here! Looking for a Gift for the Special Men in Your Life? Here are some ideas for those that love to golf – A round of golf at their favorite course. Golf lessons with a pro. A gym membership for improved fitness, strength and flexibility to avoid injury and improve their game. Or, for a Unique Gift – a Session of ‘Hypnotherapy for Improved Golf.’

Improve Your Game With Hypnosis

Golf opportunities on Cape Ann –

Bass Rocks Golf Club. Gloucester MA
Cape Ann Golf Club. Essex MA
Rockport Golf Club. Rockport MA

For more information on golfing on Cape Ann – http://capeannvacations.com/wordpress/golf-gloucester/

Golf is Exercise for the Body and the Brain. For those that don’t think of golf as exercise, golf entails walking, balance, flexibility and coordination for the body. Plus mental focus and concentration for the mind.

Walk the Course – for more exercise walk and enjoy the natural surroundings of Cape Ann. Incorporate ‘walking meditation’ from ball-to-ball and hole-to-hole for added health benefits.

Research shows that just a half-hour of moderately intense exercise a day can improve your health and extend your life.

For more information on health benefits of golf and benefits of exercise overall – http://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/golf_exercise

Incorporate a training program to avoid injury. Study shows that “Implementing a training program that includes flexibility, strength, and power training with correction of faulty swing mechanics will help the golfer reduce the likelihood of injury and improve overall performance.”

Sources – http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3445090/ and http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19387406

Hypnotherapy to Improve Your Golf Game. Recent study shows that “hypnosis may positively control emotions, thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. Hypnosis can help you feel more relaxed, confident and in control. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11219648

Golf is a Mental Game – Relax, Visualize, Believe and Succeed!

This hypnotherapy program from Dreamtime Wellness™ is for golfers wanting to

Feel more comfortable on the course
Improve scores
Lower handicaps
Have more FUN!

Discounted Gift Certificates Available Through Monday, June 22nd. To Order – Call 978-283-4258 or Email: info@DreamtimeWellness.com. Gift Certificates can be sent via email for faster delivery. Contact us for details.

Lower Your Score. Have More Fun.

Gift certificate is for a private one-on-one session of hypnotherapy. In this session you will learn simple techniques for relaxation and self-hypnosis and receive a recording for ongoing reinforcement.

SAVE $20.00 when you purchase a gift certificate by June 22nd! Mention GMG and SAVE $10.00 YEAR ROUND when you purchase a gift certificate. *Dreamtime Wellness™ Gift Certificates can be applied to other services and hypnotherapy sessions can be used towards other healthy positive goals. (Note: some restrictions for hypnosis apply. Contact us with any questions.)

Teach Your Children Well

However you Celebrate Father’s Day, Enjoy a Beautiful Day! ~ Karen

June 13, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Keep Cape Ann Safe and Clean – Dispose of Medications and Sharps Safely

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

Posted on GMG -Addison Gilbert Hospital’s Medication Disposal Day –

Saturday. June 20th.

Great that AGH is offering this! This is a great opportunity to Safely Get Rid Of any unused, expired and leftover medications!

Leftover medications should NOT be tossed down a sink or toilet, where it can potentially pollute the water supply and injure humans or wildlife.
Never put unused medications, vitamins/supplements or needles into the trash either, where they could accidentally injure someone or get into the hands of children.

SAFE DISPOSAL OF MEDICATIONS AND NEEDLES IS NECESSARY

The Gloucester police station has a ‘year-round’ drop box in their lobby to drop off medications. Danvers, Ipswich and Peabody police stations also have medication drop-off programs. Peabody police station has two drop boxes in the lobby of the police station where residents could deposit old medication bottles, as well as used syringes and needles. Other communities participate in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day or have semi-regular prescription drug disposal days. Some programs may be for ‘Residents Only.’ Check with your city!

http://www.gloucester-ma.gov/index.aspx?NID=228

Safe Disposal of SHARPS (Eg. needles, syringes, lancets, infusion sets) –

Not just for drug abuse! Anyone with Type I (insulin-dependent diabetes) or using home infusions and injections (chemotherapy/antibiotics/anticoagulants, etc.) need to dispose of these items properly and safely. This goes for pets and veterinary supplies too!

http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/HomeHealthandConsumer/ConsumerProducts/Sharps/default.htm#whataresharps

http://www.fda.gov/downloads/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/HomeHealthandConsumer/ConsumerProducts/Sharps/UCM278775.pdf

Not only a public health issue, improper disposal of drugs can also have a negative impact on the environment. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the improper disposal of unused medications by flushing them or pouring them down the toilet or sink may be harmful to fish, wildlife, plants and habitats. This can also occur from improper disposal of detergents, paints, fragrances, fire retardants, disinfectants, plastics, resins, pesticides, and insect repellents. Studies have shown that the endocrine systems of certain fish and wildlife have been affected by exposure to endocrine disrupting compounds.

Frog Pollution pharma2

Sources and More Information for Safe Disposal Can Be Found Here –

http://www.awarerx.org/get-informed/find-disposal-information#Local

http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUp dates/ucm101653.htm

http://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/drugs-in-the-water

http://www.awarerx.org/get-informed/find-disposal-information#Local

http://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/endocrine/

http://www.innerbody.com/image/endoov.html

http://cfpub.epa.gov/ncer_abstracts/index.cfm/fuseaction/display.highlight/abstract/6116/report/F

http://www.phrma.org/safe-use-disposal

Help the Gloucester Fishermen – Don’t Pollute!

Male Fish Bearing Eggs. Pollutants such as Endocrine Disruptors have been shown to affect fish reproduction, growth and development.

http://www.peer.org/campaigns/public-health/pharma-pollution/

http://www.greenfacts.org/en/endocrine-disruptors/endocrine-disruptors.htm

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1095643314000890

http://www.peer.org/campaigns/public-health/pharma-pollution/

When in doubt, don’t just throw it out or down the drain where it can pollute the water supply of humans and wildlife. Check with your local government before disposing medications and chemicals.

And Enjoy a Safe, Healthy and Beautiful Cape Ann. ~ Karen

Andrew’s Point

~ Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Reiki Teacher/Shihan, Tobacco Treatment Specialist. In addition to a private wellness business, Karen has been employed as the RN/Reiki Provider and Hypnotherapist at NSMC, RN/Reiki Provider at Mass General Cancer Center (Danvers and Boston,) and currently is the RN/Reiki Provider at Lahey Danvers Outpatient Center/for the Pain Management Integrative Healthcare. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Since 2000. Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit. More information can be found at –www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

June 6, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

June is PTSD Awareness Month

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

June has been designated PTSD Awareness Month by the National Center for PTSD (NCPTSD).

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder resulting from exposure to a single or multiple traumatic events, such physical or sexual assault, natural or man-made disaster, and war-related combat stress. Symptoms of PTSD include persistent intrusive thoughts and distressing dreams about the traumatic event, triggered emotional responses to reminders of the trauma, efforts to avoid thinking or talking about the trauma, and persistent hypervigilance for cues that indicate additional danger or trauma re-occurring.

PTSD Statistics –

According to the National Center for PTSD,

about 7 to 8 percent of the U.S. population will have PTSD at some point in their lives.
about 5.2 million adults have PTSD during a given year.
Veterans with PTSD by service era:
- Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom: About 11-20%
- Gulf War (Desert Storm): 12%
- Vietnam War: Estimated that 30% of Vietnam Veterans have had PTSD in their lifetime.
- Estimated # of Veteran suicides per day – 20 (Source: CDC)

Some Symptoms of PTSD –

Anxiety and/or Depression
Sleep Disturbance and Nightmares
Irritability and outbursts of anger
Difficulty concentrating
Hypervigilance (on constant “red alert”)
Feeling jumpy and easily startled
Substance Abuse
Suicidal Thoughts and Feelings

**Anyone can get PTSD at any age. If you or someone you know are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your physician for assistance.

Some Treatments for PTSD –

Counseling – Psychotherapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Family
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
Medications for anxiety/depression

Complementary and Integrative Therapies for PTSD –

Acupuncture
Hypnosis
Meditation
Qi Gong
Reiki
Relaxation Techniques
Yoga

Many hospitals in the Boston area now advertise integrative healthcare programs. Fort Hood (TX,) Fort Belvoir (VA) and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (MD) offer integrative healthcare services to veterans (Eg. massage, reiki, reflexology and yoga.) A 2008 American Hospital Association survey found that 84 percent of hospitals reported patient demand as the primary rationale in offering complementary and integrative medicine services.

~ Ask your physician about ordering counseling and integrative services for PTSD, stress and/or pain management. When in the hospital, ask if these services are available. ~

Sources and for More Information –

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/basics/treatment/con-20022540

http://www.helpguide.org

http://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/PTSD

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/index.shtml

http://www.cause-usa.org/main/home.cfm?PageID=47

http://www.veteranstoday.com/2009/04/01/army-s-new-ptsd-treatments-yoga-reiki-bioenergy/

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/index.shtml

(*Flag photo shared with permission of Jay Albert. http://capeannimages.blogspot.com. Thanks Jay!)

My Pledge – Veterans diagnosed with PTSD can sign up for a FREE sample session of Reiki during the month of June. Reiki (ray-kee) Ryoho is a Japanese healing method/art that is offered through light or non-touch to create a relaxed state of mind and body. Reiki is offered for relaxation, stress reduction and pain relief, offered as part of an integrative healthcare program. Note: Reiki is not meant to take the place of conventional medicine or healthcare, but is intended as supportive care.

Relax and Restore with Reiki

To Schedule a Sample Reiki Session During the Month of June – Email – info@dreamtimewellness.com or call – 978-283.4258. Register Early. Space is limited. FREE Sample Sessions will be offered to Veterans with a diagnosis of PTSD – Wednesdays in Danvers MA at Lahey Outpatient Center, Danvers MA. Thursdays at the North Shore Medical Dental Center, Peabody MA.

Ongoing Dreamtime Wellness™ Reiki Shares/Clinics (‘By Donation’) –

‘Community Reiki Share’ first Tuesdays in Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA
‘Reiki Clinic’ – second Wednesdays in Danvers MA

‘Reiki Shares/Clinics’ are an affordable way to experience the relaxation benefits of Reiki.

All Levels of Reiki Training Available at Dreamtime Wellness™ – Thorough, supportive training for those that wish to learn Reiki as a tool for ‘relaxation, stress reduction, and pain relief,’ for self-care, with loved ones or at advanced levels, you may wish to work in a professional setting.

When people ask about Reiki, I often think of the Mikey cereal commercial – “Try It, You’ll Like It.” Reiki is best explained through the experience of a session. ~ Karen

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