by

Secrets to a ‘Long and Happy Life’

 

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body and Spirit

‘Fukuju’ in Japanese means ‘Long Life and Happiness.’

The Longest Living Woman in the World Just Celebrated Her 117th Birthday! http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2015/03/04/worlds-oldest-person-117-birthday-japan/24362311/

Misao Ōkawa (大川 ミサヲ) Born March 5th, 1898 is the oldest living woman. She currently resides in a nursing home in Osaka, Japan. (See link above for more of her story.)

When asked her advice on ‘longevity,’ Misao-san answered

  • “Eat and Sleep Well.” Misao-san reports sleeping 8 hours a day, and eating sushi. mackerel (‘Saba’) being her favorite. (Hey Joey, More ‘Good News’ for Gloucester Fisherman!)

Captain Joe Sushi Roll

SUSHI

Benefits Sushi is high in natural Omega-3 fatty acids which has been reported to help decrease inflammation. Information on Omega-3 and health benefits from Mayo Clinic – http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/in-depth/omega-3/art-20045614 Over the past few years we have seen an increase in Sushi offerings on Cape Ann: Latitude 43, The Rudder, Madfish, the Franklin, Midori, and the Studio are some of the Cape Ann Restaurants offering Sushi.

Risks Sushi also has some risks involved if the fish is not properly stored and prepared. Raw (and even cooked) seafood is not meant for daily consumption due to levels of mercury. For more information on mercury in fish and shellfish – http://water.epa.gov/…/fishshellf…/outreach/advice_index.cfm        Note: Woman who are pregnant or nursing, young children, and people on chemotherapy or otherwise immunosuppressed are advised to avoid raw/uncooked fish and meat. Check with your doctor for advice.

For more on healthy vs. unhealthy sushi – http://www.askmen.com/sports/foodcourt_250/259_healthiest-and-unhealthiest-sushi.html Note: FDA recommends women who are pregnant only eat fish and other seafood that has been cooked thoroughly. Also, it is recommended to avoid raw seafood or meat if you are on chemotherapy or otherwise immunosuppressed. For information on what is safe to eat when on chemotherapy – .http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/patientinstructions/000061.htm

Many studies on inflammation and fish use fish oil supplements to increase intake of omega-3. **Check with your doctor first if you are considering fish-oil supplements, especially if you are taking blood thinners! When in doubt, check it out and ask your doctor’s advice!

  • “Learn how to Relax” was Misao-san’s other advice. Though the article does not mention specific relaxation techniques, meditation is practiced daily in the Japanese culture in many forms. One common form is through ‘Sei Shin Toitsu’ – ‘mind-concentration.’ (More on Meditation, Reiki, Sei Shin Toitsu and other relaxation techniques in upcoming posts.)
A Relaxing Reiki Session

A Relaxing Reiki Session

I wonder if Misao Ōkawa knows about ‘Reiki Ryoho?’ The Japanese Healing Method/Art for mind-body improvement. Founded by Mikao Usui Sensei (August 15, 1865-March 9, 1926.) Daily practice of ‘Reiki Ryoho’ in the form of self-Reiki is said to invite ‘Health and Happiness.’

Reiki Kyogi Principles KRKB FB copy

Reflecting twice daily on the Reiki ‘Gokai’ or Precepts, also known as ‘Reiki (Kyogi) Principles,’ as part of Reiki practice helps create feelings of ‘inner peace and calm.’ A wonderful way to begin the day with ‘positive affirmations!’  ‘Work diligently’ refers to ‘working on self for self-improvement’ and greater levels of health. Inner peace has a way of ‘rippling out’ to others. May you enjoy peace and calm today!

Join me for a cup of tea! TODAY there is a Fund Raiser for the Continued Reconstruction Efforts in Japan held at Showa Institute in Boston.   If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, contact Kyoko Wada – http://spouses.mit.edu/mit-events/event/15955591

Powered Macha

Powered Macha

To Learn Simple Relaxation Techniques for Stress Reduction and Increased Calm Contact me – www.dreamtimewellness.com or https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

Next Reiki Training Shoden (1st Degree/Beginning Level): Sunday. March 22nd in Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA. Reiki Ryoho Shoden Level  focuses on ‘Self-Reiki.’  Only 12 More Days Until Spring!! Celebrate Spring by spending the day in peaceful relaxation and harmony as you learn simple techniques for Relaxation and Self-Care.

~ May You Enjoy a Long and Happy Life!      – Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N.

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

by

Dental Assistants Recognition Week is March 1st -7th!

IMG_1305

Dentists in the United States and Canada will celebrate by honoring their dental assistants for the variety of duties they perform and helping them provide patients with quality dental care. This year’s theme, “Dental Assisting: Embracing the Changes of the Profession,” acknowledges the growing importance of dentistry’s role in health care and the responsibilities of dental assistants.

We want to thank Stephanie Bakland of Harbor Cove Dental for being one of the best dental assistants ever!  Our office couldn’t run without you.

Check us out here at www.HarborCoveDental.com.  Follow us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/HarborCoveDental01930

by

Importance of Controlling High Blood Pressure

Dreamtime Wellness ™ Photo copy

More Information on ‘Cardiac Risk Factors’ in Honor of February ‘Heart Month.’

#1- STOP Smoking if you smoke. There are resources to help! (Contact us privately for confidential information on how to stop.)

Enjoy the Breath of Life

This winter as people were out in the cold shoveling, I have overheard a number of them say as they were huffing and puffing, –  “I wish I had never smoked!” Stopping smoking at any age can help improve your overall health! (www.lung.org)

#2- Control Blood Pressure

Wellness from the Heart

High Blood Pressure (HBP) has  sometimes been called “the silent killer.” People typically do not have symptoms when they have HBP and may not be aware that it is damaging arteries, heart and other organs.

Have your physician check your blood pressure. Follow their advice for treatment. If they prescribe medication to treat HBP, take as directed. Do not stop taking your medication unless you discuss with your physician first. If you experience symptoms of lightheadedness or dizziness while on the medication, have your blood pressure re-checked and any medication adjustments under the guidance of your physician.

 High blood pressure if left untreated can result in:

  • Heart Attack
  • Heart Failure
  • Aortic Dissection and Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
  • Stroke
  • Peripheral Artery Disease
  • Vision Loss
  • Erectile Dysfunction
  • Angina
  • Kidney Damage

Contact Your Physician if you have further questions about high blood pressure, other cardiac risk factors and how to stop smoking. (For more information about cardiac risk factors – www.aha.org)

Take Good Care of Your Heart All Year Round!    ~ Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N.

Heart Health

At Dreamtime Wellness™, we offer education and tools for self-care, relaxation and stress management that are helpful for ‘heart health.’ Contact us with any questions – info@dreamtimewellness.com. or www.dreamtimewellness.com.

 

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.

by

Local Business Owner Reopens Photoshop Fred Bodin received cancer treatment at Addison Gilbert Hospital

For more than 40 years, photography has been Fred Bodin’s life. The Rockport resident started as a freelancer before getting regular work at local colleges, newspapers and magazines. Eventually he opened his own classic photography shop – Bodin Historic Photo – in downtown Gloucester.

“It’s like having a hobby, but I get paid for it,” said Bodin, who has run his Gloucester shop for nearly two decades.

But for 10 months last year, from January to October, Bodin’s shop was dark. There was no developing films and no interacting with customers. Instead, Bodin was at Addison Gilbert Hospital receiving cancer treatment.

In January 2014, Bodin was unable to walk and was taken to Addison Gilbert Hospital. There he was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer.

“When Fred first came in, he was pretty sick,” said Joanne Gibbs, RN. “Cancer cells can infiltrate other areas of your body, but he was relieved to be treated close to his home.”

“Just the word ‘cancer’ scares the willies out of you,” Bodin said. “I was confused and in disbelief that this could be happening to me.”

But after the initial shock wore off, Bodin found solace turning back to his camera. Lying in his hospital bed, Bodin could still indulge his passion.

“Even though I was limited to what was in my room, I never stopped taking pictures,” Bodin said.

Bodin received chemotherapy and physical therapy through Addison Gilbert and Beverly Hospital as his care team worked to get him back to his passion.

“He has a great love for this town and his community,” Gibbs said. “His photos really capture Cape Ann. He promotes local artists in his windows and I believe Fred makes the most of every day.”

And now, a year after his diagnosis, Bodin has returned to his Gloucester shop, continuing to enjoy his hobby.

“It’s great to be back at work,” Bodin said. “I wanted to come back; I knew I still had the skills.”

To learn more about the Addison Gilbert and Beverly Hospitals’ cancer program, please call 978.283.4000, extension 559.

by

‘American Heart Month’ – Recognize the Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

Dreamtime Wellness ™ Photo copy

“Knowledge is Power” ~ Francis Bacon  *More on Cholesterol and Heart Health in Upcoming Blog. (The irony of the source of this quote does not escape me)

Continuing to Bring You Health Information during ‘American Heart Month.’

Working as a nurse in intensive care units at Cape Ann’s Addison Gilbert Hospital, University of Illinois Hospital in Chicago, and St. Anthony’s in Denver, Colorado, it seemed that the cold winter season, and especially shoveling after snow storms brought increased complaints of chest pain, difficulty breathing, and even heart attack.

Health of heart

Extreme winter weather conditions along with exertion (outdoor exercise, shoveling and snow removal) can lead to heart attack. Those with cardiac risk factors* (*Smoking, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Diabetes, Obesity, Lack of Exercise, Family History, Genetics, History of Previous Heart Attack or Heart Disease) are at higher risk.

The strain and exertion of shoveling and snow blowing can lead to plaque rupture and cause heart attack.

*See my earlier GMG/Cape Ann Wellness Blog Post for more information on cardiac risk factors,       safe shoveling and snow blowing.)

Atherosclerosis disease - plague blocking blood flow

Atherosclerosis (ath-er-o-skler-O-sis) is a disease in which plaque (made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood) leads to clogged arteries and decreased blood flow. This can happen in any of the major arteries, which carry oxygen-rich blood to the heart and other vital organs. Narrowed and blocked arteries in the heart can result in angina (chest pain from lack of oxygen to the heart) and heart attack (where the lack of oxygen results in tissue damage.) Blocked arteries in the neck can result in stroke. (www.nhlbi.nih.gov/…/atherosclerosis. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.) Knowing the Symptoms of Heart Attack and Stroke and Prompt Treatment can Save Lives

Know the Symptoms of a Heart Attack and Call 9-1-1  Without Delay! “Time is Muscle!” 
The sooner you get treatment, the less potential damage to heart muscle tissue!
(**The emergency services access # may be different in other parts of the country. It’s important to know the phone # to access emergency services where you live.**)

Symptoms of a Heart Attack: 

  • Chest discomfort: pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain that does not go away after resting 3 minutes.
  • Discomfort in other areas of the upper body: one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. Unusual pain in the teeth, throat and little finger have also been reported.
  • Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
  • Rapid or irregular heart beat 
  • Other signs: cold sweat, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, weakness, anxiety, or light-headedness.

Men and women can experience heart attack symptom as chest pan or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Celebrate Women’s Heart Health

Ladies, note that the warning signs for men and women can be different! For more information – http://www.womenheart.org/?page=support_amihaving

Strenuous activity in extreme weather conditions can put you at an increased risk of heart attack. Especially if you have existing cardiac risk factors (smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, lack of exercise, prior history of heart disease or heart attack, etc.)

Check with your doctor to determine your cardiac risk factors and make the necessary changes to decrease your risk of heart disease and heart attack. http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/More/MyHeartandStrokeNews/Coronary-Artery-Disease—Coronary-Heart-Disease_UCM_436416_Article.jsp

  • If you have Chest Pain or Pressure that ‘comes and goes’ or is relieved by rest, let your doctor know! You could be experiencing ANGINA, or lack of oxygen to the heart.
  • If you are taking antacids daily and increasing amounts, this could be heart related; follow-up with your physician.
  • If you are experiencing increased fatigue, especially with exercise or even walking up a flight of stairs, let your doctor know. This could be an early sign of heart disease and blocked arteries.

When in doubt…CHECK IT OUT! Early intervention can help prevent heart attack and damage to heart tissue and other vital organs.

Here is important information from the NIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute; Information That Could Save a Life! – http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/heartattack/signs has information on when to call emergency services.

Contact your physician to assess your cardiac risk factors. Contact your physician prior to exercise and exertion, especially in extreme weather conditions. Contact your physician with any of the symptoms mentioned above. Call 9-1-1 when symptoms are severe and/or do not go away with rest. Even if you experience symptoms that go away with rest, follow-up with your physician.

Be Safe, Healthy and Well!    ~ Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N.   

Stay tuned for upcoming information on Decreasing Cardiac Risk Factors and How to Prevent and Recognize Stroke. If there are health issues you want to hear more about, contact me through the blog, or privately  at http://www.dreamtimewellness.com or call 978.283.4258. Thank you for following!

 

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.