October 3, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

October Community Reiki Share to Help Support Children in Africa

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

Tuesday. October 6th. ‘Community Reiki Share’ in Manchester-by-the-Sea.

Join us in Supporting the Kangemi Charity and Children of Nairobi, Kenya. Having just returned from a sabbatical in Africa, it seems appropriate that this month’s Reiki Share is donating proceeds to an African charity. All are welcomed to attend to enjoy a Reiki Session while supporting this worthy cause!

This month’s choice of charities was inspired by Advanced Western and Japanese Reiki Practitioner (Komyo Okuden/3rd Degree) and FOB Suzanne Sweeney, owner of Energize Body and Mind here in Gloucester. Suzanne’s mother-in-law Prafulla Ganatraa, coordinates the Kangemi Charity in Kenya, helping to feed, clothe and educate children in an impoverished area of Nairobi.

Reiki Teacher Prafulla Ganatraa helping children in Nairobi, Kenya

Suzanne’s husband Mehul Ganatra had this to say about The Kangemi Charity “this is a grass-roots charity started by my mother (a Reiki master) and a few of her Reiki friends three and a half years ago. The goal is to feed the children of the Kangemi slums (located in Nairobi, Kenya). The slums have a population of about 120,000 with no access to basic facilities (e.g. sewerage, medical). What started out with feeding 50 kids every Sunday has now grown to over 300! In addition to one meal a week, they also occasionally provide some clothing (school uniforms) and blankets. Thanks to some generous donations, the charity now pays the school tuition for 74 kids in primary school and 3 students in secondary school. There is definitely a need to do more. Please note that 100% of the donations my mother receives go towards helping the kids.”

In her efforts to help the children, Prafulla Ganatraa is also teaching them Reiki, demonstrated in this photo. Join us in helping support the wonderful work she is doing!

Kangemi child offering Reiki 12074487_1057218587662087_4089829940452143502_n

Kangemi Child Offering Reiki in Nairobi Kenya

To Attend this Month’s Reiki Share or to Donate to the Kangemi Charity, Email info@DreamtimeWellnessc.com or Contact Suzanne Sweeney via Email -EnergizeBodyandMind@gmail.com.

You can come as an observer, to donate, join in a meditation, and/or enjoy a Reiki Session. Participate in some or all of the evening and enjoy the sense of peace, comfort and calm that Reiki provides.

‘Community Reiki Share.’ Tuesday. October 6th. 5:15 pm – 8:15 pm 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.)

Community Reiki Share

For more information about Reiki (Japanese Healing Art/Method) and Dreamtime Wellness Reiki Programs …
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September 30, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

On Retreat – Quiet Reflection and Helpful Healing

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Definition of ‘Retreat’ –

a quiet or secluded place in which one can rest and relax.

a period of seclusion for the purposes of prayer and meditation.

In this fast-paced, busy culture where can you find ‘sanctuary?’

Where can you escape to for healing the mind, body, and spirit?

With its many beautiful beaches, rocky outcroppings and gardens with oceans views, and wooded pathways to choose from almost any spot on Cape Ann will generally do! But on the special occasion of the August 15th/150th Anniversary of the birth of USUI Sensei, (founder of the Japanese Healing Method/Art of Reiki Ryoho,) I chose to drive 5 hours to an isolated monastery in the Catskill Mountains.

Dai Bosatsu Zendo Kongo-ji (DBZ,) is a Zen Buddhist (Rinzai) monastery and retreat center located on 1,400 acres in a deciduous forest region of the Catskills in upstate New York. While Reiki is not a Buddhist or religious practice, the founder of Reiki Ryoho was a Pureland Buddhist monk from Japan. Located with the highest lake in the Catskills, with the nearest town over 20 miles away, no wi-fi, and fashioned to look like a Japanese Buddhist temple, DBZ is a perfect place for meditation, retreat, and Reiki Teacher Training refresher.

Buddhist Retreat Center in the Catskills

Dai Bosatsu Zendo, Livingston Manor New York

The Road to Sanctuary – After 4 1/2 hours of highway travel, the road leading to Dai Bosatsu Zendo Kongo-ji is nearly 20 miles of meandering road, much of it dirt. Once you arrive at the entrance gates, there’s still another 2 miles to navigate. No street lights, a rugged and rutted road, and no GPS necessitated a pre-sunset arrival and slow drive. A good introduction to what the weekend would entail. Driving slowly along this road surrounded by the peace and beauty of nature allowed us to better enjoy the sounds of nature with glimpses animals. We rolled down the windows to better enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of nature. Birds and crickets chirped a harmonious welcome. A bubbling brook created a peaceful, rhythmic vibe for our final leg. We rode in silence. Breathing took on a restful pace, coming slower and deeper. Trees lining the road provided shade and a refreshing coolness on this hot August day. The scent of fresh air, earth and flowers danced in and out of our breathing passageways. Deer enjoyed an evening meal alongside the road, lifting their heads as if to say ‘hello’ before resuming eating. Unperturbed by our presence. Blood pressure lowered. Having been here before, it felt a bit like ‘coming home’ and we welcomed the sense of peace that ensued.

Dai Bosatsu Zendo Courtyard

Beacher Lake – As we arrived at Beecher Lake (highest lake in the Catskills!) dragonflies danced across its surface, intercepting insects in their path. Waning sunlight sparkled on leaves already turning their autumn hues. We pulled up to the Joraku-an (guesthouse) to meet with our Reiki Teacher, INAMOTO Hyakuten Sensei from Kyoto Japan. An azure sky and puffy white clouds reflected in the still, calm water reminding me of one of Hyakuten Sensei’s teachings – “Reiki creates a calm and peaceful mind, like a still pond reflecting the moonlight.”

Beacher Lake

Symbol of Freedom – On this occasion, just outside the Joraku-an in a tall pine sat a beautiful and majestic eagle. It seemed an auspicious sight, welcoming us to the 150th Anniversary of the birth of USUI Mikao, founder of Reiki Ryoho. The first of many ‘gifts’ we would receive throughout the weekend. This symbol of ‘freedom’ seemed a good omen for a weekend retreat.

A Bald Eagle Greets Us on Retreat

Reiki Teacher from Japan – Here we met with Inamoto Hyakuten Sensei, founder of Komyo Reiki Kai™ and Reiki Teacher from Kyoto, Japan. Other Reiki Teachers from around the globe joined us for retreat, training and celebration, including Hiroki Nishina of Japan. This was Hiroki-san’s first time in the United States. I offered him a GMG cap and sticker as a memento of his trip to the U.S. Here, Hiroki proudly displays GMG in his home town of Kurashiki, Japan.

Hiroki Nishina Representing in Kurashiki Japan.

GMG and Sunset in Kurashiki, Japan

FB Message from Hiroki-san – “Hi, karen. (^_^)/ Thank you for the cool cap. I took a picture in Kurashiki where I live in. This is one of Japan’s best sunsets.”

Nice Hiroki-san! Thanks for ‘representing’ GMG in your home town in Japan! ~ Arigatou Gozaimasu! ~ Kansha Shite. That is indeed a beautiful sunset! Hope you get to Cape Ann to enjoy the sunsets, beaches and warm, friendly people.

Backyard Retreat – Don’t have time or can’t afford to travel for a structured retreat? You can arrange to have a ‘healing retreat’ in your own back yard. We are fortunate to have so many wonderful places for ‘retreat’ here on Cape Ann.

Simply make time to sit quietly:

In a garden.
On a beach.
In the woods.
Even in your own home, while imagining a peaceful place in nature.

Sun Setting on the Annisquam River

Be sure to –

Set aside time (even 5 minutes a day of quiet relaxation offers health benefits!)
Minimize outside distractions if possible; turn off cell phones and computers.
Sit or lie comfortably.
Close your eyes (if appropriate and safe) or can leave eyes open with a ‘soft gaze.’
Begin with a few slow, deep cleansing breaths, then continue breathing at a restful pace. Easy In. Easy Out.
Observe and connect with the beauty of nature around you, using all of your senses – sights, sounds, scents, textures.

Potential Health Benefits of Relaxation Include –

Lower heart rate
Decreased blood pressure
Slower, deeper rate of breathing
Reduced activity of stress hormones
Increased blood flow to major muscles
Reduced muscle tension and chronic pain
Improved concentration and mood
Decreased fatigue, more energy
More patience and tolerance
Increased confidence and clarity of thought
A great sense of inner peace and well-being

For Best Benefit – use relaxation techniques along with other positive coping methods, such as positive thinking, humor, managing time, exercise, adequate sleep, support from family and friends, and when necessary support of a professional.

However you choose to find your sanctuary, enjoy the health benefits of time away in a peaceful setting!

Do you have a favorite place or ‘retreat and relaxation?’ If so, share with FOB.

Feel free to contact me for more information on where to go on retreats, how to create a home retreat, reiki, meditation and relaxation techniques. ~ Karen

P.S. You can find more photos related to this and other retreats on Dreamtime Wellness and Komyo Reiki Kai Boston Facebook Pages.

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.

August 6, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Beach Goers Beware – August is Skin Cancer Prevention Month

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

August is Skin Cancer Prevention Month – Here Are Some Important Sun Safety Tips

Summertime means beach vacations with locals and tourists alike flocking to Cape Ann’s Many Beautiful Beaches – Cape Hedge, Cressy, Good Harbor, Half moon, Front/Back, White/Black, Long, Lighthouse, Magnolia, Niles, Pavillion, Pebble, Plum Cove, Singing, Wingaersheek … each one beautiful and unique.

Be Safe From the Summer Sun

Days at the beach signify relaxation and ‘fun in the sun.’ But too much sun can lead to early wrinkles and worse … Skin Cancer. You can still enjoy exercising outdoors and a fun day at the beach, but it is in your best interest to take precautions and practice ‘sun safety’ to best avoid the damaging effects of the sun and skin cancer.

Facts from the American Cancer Society:

The skin is the largest organ of the body
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer
Skin cancer is preventable and when caught early, easily treatable

Risk factors for skin cancer include:

Too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (from sunlight or tanning beds and lamps)
Pale skin (easily sunburned, doesn’t tan much or at all, natural red or blond hair)
Exposure to large amounts of coal-tar, paraffin, arsenic compounds, or certain types of oil
You or members of your family have had skin cancers
Multiple or unusual moles
Severe sunburns in the past
Weakened immune system
Older age (although melanomas can also occur in younger people)

Source and More information – http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancercauses/sunanduvexposure/skin-cancer-facts

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July 31, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Community Reiki Share to Benefit Gloucester’s Grace Center, Inc.

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

August 4th. ‘Community Reiki Share’ to Benefit ‘Grace Center, Inc.’

‘Community Reiki Share.’ 5:15 pm – 8:15 pm 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.) Make Checks Payable to ‘Grace Center, Inc.’

Gloucester’s Grace Center Inc. provides food, shelter, transportation, healthcare and more to those in need. To find out more about Grace Center, Inc. and how you can participate in their programs, volunteer, or donate – http//www.gracecenterinc.org

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,) Reid’s Ride (July,) and for August – Grace Center, Inc.

Grace Center Inc. in Gloucester does more than provide food, shelter, healthcare, and transportation. Grace Center Inc. was the recent recipient of a grant from Awesome Gloucester for their innovative art therapy project. At Awesome Gloucester’s ‘pitch night,’ I saw and heard first-hand how Grace Center, Inc. not only provides basic needs, but also opportunities that help people climb Maslow’s ladder to self-actualization and vowed to commit our August Reiki Share to help their project.

Join us and help raise money for this important cause while enjoying some ‘peace, comfort and calm’ at the August 4th Community Reiki Share!

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Paddling on the Annisquam River – exercise, meditation, or social outlet? All of the above!

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Exercise and Meditation in Nature on Beautiful Cape Ann.

Paddling the Annisquam – Yesterday I headed out “for a quick paddle before the storm.” Once on the water, my senses were engulfed by the beauty and peacefulness of my surroundings. I began to paddle slower. Getting into a natural rhythm. ‘Meditation in motion’ with each stroke; reflective and introspective. Then, occasionally sprinting for aerobic exercise and interval training, interspersed with moments of meditation. Inhaling deeply, exhaling completely. Fresh salt air filling my lungs felt healing. Gliding alongside the salt marsh I was accompanied by swooping swallows, soaring elegant egrets, and stately cormorants perched on rocks and buoys to dry their wings.

Cormorant Drying Its Wings

Did you know that in some areas of Japan, Cormorant (umiu) are used for fishing (ukai?) I wonder if any Gloucester fisherman have tried this?

Keisai Elsen’s print of Cormorant Fishing on the Nagara River, Japan

Ever-present sea gulls were there looking to steal a meal. Sandpipers piping, ran along transient beaches formed by low tide. Auntie Vi, God rest her soul loved ‘the peeps,’ as she called them. I was reminded me of Florida. The sand so white in some parts of the Annisquam, that I am ‘transported’ to Siesta Key. The water so clear I can see large quahaug shells, the kind used for clam chowdah, empty, littering the sand beneath.

Quapaw

Memories flash through my mind, triggered by all of my senses – Auntie Vi and Uncle Roger had the “BEST Clam Bakes Evah!!” Rogah would haul lobsta pots from his Novi boat. My husband and his brothers”‘baited the traps’ with old, smelly fish, left out in the sun.” Imagine that!

Novi boat

I was distantly aware of the sound of boat engines as they navigated through the twists and turns of the channel. I kept an ear on the boats and an ‘eye on the sky.’ The weather channel predicted storms around 2 p.m. The Claudia and Marie lobster boat heads in. I wondered if I should too? Maybe they know the storm is coming closer. But the river’s tantalizing charm and beauty keep me entwined in its web of waterways.

Annisquam River and Pearce Island

The slower I paddled the more I noticed, around me and within. Internally and externally I became more aware of areas where I was holding tension. With greater awareness, more tension can be released and let go. As if the clean, clear water washed over and cleansed me, my body healthier. My mind is clear. My heart filled with joy. Puffy white clouds reflected in the water. Storm clouds loomed in the distance.

Cumulonimbus Clouds

Cumulonimbus clouds – These puffy white clouds are the ones to pay attention to. Beautiful to look at, but indicate potential thunderstorms. Remember – Any port in a storm!

Letting Go of the ‘To Do List’ is Easier on the Annisquam – I switched my goal from exercise to simply enjoying a beautiful day on the water. Summer goes by too fast not to enjoy it! Across the river I notice two men in bright blue, single outriggers. Did you know that Wikipedia lists 57 different shades of blue on their chart, from A-Z? Including Azure, Baby blue, Celeste, Colbolt, Cornflower, Cyan, Denim, Indigo, Iris, Maya blue, Persian blue, Prussian blue, Royal blue, Sapphire, Sky Blue, Teal, Turquoise, Ultramarine and Zaffre…to name but a few. A client recently described the ‘blue’ in their visualization as ‘Bahama Blue.’ Lovely description! What color blue were those outrigger?

Azure Blue

I guess ‘azure blue.’ Drawn by the beautiful color and thinking they are here for the BBC, I paddle over to say ‘hi.’ Oscar and Jeff are here from Washington D.C., paddling single outriggers in the Blackburn Challenge, out on a practice run to familiarize themselves with the course. They tell me the marine forecast was changed – storms aren’t expected until 5 pm. Yes!! I have more time to spend on the Annisquam. The ‘to do list’ completely floats out of my conscious mind, and I head to Lobster Cove in Annisquam. From the water I admired the beautiful homes with manicured lawns and gardens, and more blue, as hydrangea seemed to be everywhere.

More paddlers came by. One was my Reiki Student Nancy, a nurse. She was with her friend Gay who owns I.C. Treats.

I.C. Treats Ice Cream Boat

(Photo © Courtesy Donna Ardizzoni at https://ardizzoniphotography.wordpress.com)

Look for this ice cream boat at Wingaersheek Beach on weekends. What a treat! These lovely ladies invited me to join them paddling, and guided me to to an area on the river where I had never been. Here, hidden behind small salt marsh islands are still waters, free of motor boats, at least for now at mid tide. Just us and a few sea gulls. A returning tide carries us effortlessly up the river. A beautiful day on the Annisquam exercising, meditating, socializing; peaceful, relaxing and energizing.

Storm on the Horizon

After my paddle, my husband and I head to Lobsta Land for his traditional ‘pre-Blackburn carb-loading meal’ – shrimp provencal and an Allagash White beer. At Lobsta Land, the food is consistently good, the wait and bar staff friendly, the views of the marsh lovely, the atmosphere fun; a lot like Cheers. We watched this storm moving east, down the Annisquam to the ocean; great views of the storm over the salt marsh. I just missed a photo of an impressive lightening bolt. Wonder if any FOB were able to capture the lightening flashes?

Waiting for the Storm to Pass

At Lobsta Land Restaurant we met 2 men from Ottawa Canada, Chris and Bruce, in town for the Blackburn. Chris told us he was so focused while training in the harbor, he “almost hit one of the tall ships.” From his description, “black and about 100 feet long,” I think it might have been the Schooner Adventure or Thomas E. Lannon. Whichever tall ship she was, the captain had to blow his horn to prevent a collision. Amazing focus Chris, not to see that! 🙂 The couple dining next to us live on Pavilion beach with a front row seat for the finish of the BBC.

Schooner Adventure

(Photo © Courtesy Joey Ciaramitaro)

The Blackburn Challenge is Today! Come on down to the Gloucester High for the start (7 a.m.) or stop by vantage points along the way – Corliss Landing, Lighthouse Beach, Andrew’s Point, Eastern Point, or the finish at Pavilion Beach, by the infamous greasy pole. This fleet of human-powered boats is a sight to be seen. Participants are challenged by skill, courage, endurance and perseverance, just like its namesake – Howard Blackburn who, while fishing in an open dory at sea was separated from the mother ship by a blizzard. With his hands frozen to the oars, he rowed five days without food or water until he reached land in Newfoundland. He went on to set a record for swiftest solo sailing voyage across the Atlantic that stood for decades. For more on Howard Blackburn, read Joe Garland’s Lone Voyager.

Today’s Marine forecast – “71 degrees, partly cloudy, north east winds, 5-10 knots, seas 2-3 feet.” www.weather.noaa.gov.

“Perfect paddling conditions” according to my husband, who is competing in his 8th BBC this year. Be sure to check the marine forecast before you head out onto the water.

Good luck to All that are paddling and rowing today’s Blackburn Challenge! Be Safe and Have Fun! ~ Karen Pischke

See you at the Blackburn! ~ Karen Pischke BSN, RN

July 12, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Get Exercise and Bicycle for a Great Cause – ‘Reid’s Ride!’ Sunday. July 19th!

Reid Sacco – “Life is Life Sailing”

‘Reid’s Ride’ Fundraiser and the Reid R. Sacco Foundation. Reid died from cancer at the young age of 20. Reid inspired many during his treatment with his courage and motivation to help others. Reid’s dream was to start a movement that would help find better treatment and find a cure for cancer. While I never met Reid, his courage, strength and inspiration live on through his family, friends and Reid’s foundation. http://www.cancerinyoungadults.org/about-the-alliance/

In its 11th year, Reid’s Ride take’s place Sunday. July 19th. A 28 miles Bicycle ride through beautiful sea-side communities from Lynnfield to Gloucester, MA. To Register to Ride or Learn How You Can Donate – http://www.firstgiving.com/Reidsride

Reid’s Ride

The energy behind Reid’s Ride. Reid’s Family organize and are the energy behind Reid’s Ride. ‘Motivated by love’ and ‘guided by spirit!’ Raising money to support the Reid R. Sacco Foundation so that Reid’s legacy endures, they have raised enough money to support research and treatment for Adolescents and Young Adults (AYA) with cancer at medical centers in 3 states – CT, MA and ME.

The Reid R. Sacco Foundation Objectives –

To raise funds to support clinical research directed at finding better treatments and cures for cancers predominantly striking young adults
To grant scholarships to high school seniors demonstrating academic excellence, the pursuit of good health and physical fitness, excellent peer leadership, and outstanding character.

For more information on Resources for AYA – http://www.cancerinyoungadults.org/resources/

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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!

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!

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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. ~

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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.