Massage
Fight the Winter Blahs with Friends and Massages!
This month at Saltwater Massage Studio, our February Special is one built for two – sweethearts and lonely hearts and everything in between… 90 Minute Massage For Two! (45 min each)
This is our twist on a “couples massage” — TWO 45 Minute Massages Sessions booked back-to-back. The truth is, we think the whole side-by-side thing is a little goofy and we want to give you our full attention so you get the full therapeutic benefit of a great massage. So grab a buddy, book it together, and enjoy a nice cup of tea while you wait for your turn for bliss… ($55/person)
** To book online, schedule a regular 90 min session and note both names on the appointment. Or just call us at 978-390-7600 or email info@saltwatermassage.com to set it up!
p.s. We expect Valentine’s Day weekend and the week of 2/15 – 2/20 to be especially busy, so we recommend planning ahead
p.p.s. Community Night is next Monday, February 7th from 4 – 7. $10 mini massages! Last month was a hit, and we hope you can join us!
January Ritual: Make Mondays Your Favorite Day
Saltwater Massage Studio is making 2016 the year of R I T U A L S.
“It’s not rocket science or religion – it’s just joy.”
If you know me, you know my passion is for providing massage therapy that “does something” – massage that makes a difference and alleviates physical pain. But lately I’ve been thinking about the other “something” that massage does. Massage can also be a tool to create moments of stillness, silence and (dare I say) happiness in our lives. And that makes a difference too. And alleviates pain. Couldn’t we all use a bit of therapeutic rest?
I believe that happiness makes us healthier people. I’m not saying happiness will cure cancer (believe me, I know it doesn’t), but I do think that “calming the inner storm” makes us a little more patient, more kind, and more generous. And maybe then we can become more patient, more kind, and more nurturing towards our Self – the most complete version of us (i.e. our bodies, our minds and what matters most in our lives). And it’s in that space that we can feel “well”, regardless of what’s going on in our lives.
Making room for stillness and silence doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. But it does have to be intentional and it has to be repetitive. And that’s where the idea of R I T U A L comes in. It’s about creating personal traditions that eventually, with repetition, begin to automatically trigger a sense of calm and a little burst of happiness. It could be as simple as burning the same candle you love and reading for a half hour every day. It’s not rocket science or religion – it’s just joy.
This year, I’m planning to introduce a new idea for a ritual each month and tools to get you started. And since massage therapy is our main gig, we’ll start right there…
January’s Ritual: Make Mondays Your Favorite Day.
Plan something that you look forward to and do it every Monday.
Next Monday, January 11th, will be kicking off the first of our monthly Community Nights offering $10 mini massages from 4 – 7. Join us on the 2nd Monday of the month all winter – mark your calendars and make it your monthly wellness ritual!
Every Monday in January: $65 60 minute massage appointments all day!
This year, we hope that Saltwater Massage Studio will be one of the things in your life that points you in the direction of happiness and health. Let’s make it a great year!
Gretchen Hill, Studio Owner, LMT
email: info@saltwatermassage.com
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Art of Living: Life Beyond Cancer’ Conference
Friends of Mel 2016 Conference
Sponsored by Friends of Mel Foundation. www.http://friendsofmel.org
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 14th at the QUINCY MARRIOTT.
To REGISTER ON – LINE and for a List of Workshops and Seminars – http://friendsofmel.org/conference/
This conference is designed to help survivors and their caregivers navigate the road to healing with a full day of professionally led workshops and skill building seminars that address such issues as –
Opening Keynote –
Trauma to Treasure: Finding Strength Through Life Challenging Experiences
Cancer presents a profound challenge to living a “normal” life but also provides survivors an opportunity to create a path for living that is consciously chosen. This presentation will focus on the inherent strengths of individuals to build a future based on lessons learned from their cancer experience. Matthew J. Loscalzo, LCSW – City of Hope. Executive Director Supportive Care Medicine, Liliane Elkins Professor in Supportive Care Programs, Professor, Population Sciences
SAMPLE of WORKSHOPS INCLUDE:
- Immune-Targeted Therapy: Inspiring Your Body to Kill Your Cancer
- Cognitive Health for Cancer Survivors
- Being a caregiver: What’s It All About?
- Self-Care and Empowerment Through Integrative Therapies
- and Much More.
NEW THIS YEAR FOR YOUNG ADULTS:
- Body Image, Self-esteem and Relationships
- Getting Connected as a Young Adult in Boston
To Learn More About Melanie Simmons, the inspiration behind Friends of Mel and to order Mel’s Bracelets – http://friendsofmel.org
Read About “The Impact of STRESS While Living with Cancer” from Friends of Mel’s Founder, Pauline Alighieri – http://huff.to/1EagW7z
For More Details, to Donate, or to Register for the Conference – http://friendsofmel.org/conference/
SAMPLE SESSIONS OF MASSAGE and REIKI – OFFERED at the FRIENDS of Mels’ Conference. Join Karen Lohnes SW, LCMT, RMT (Gloucester MA,) and me. We will be there along with other integrative therapy providers offering information, education and sample sessions of Integrative Therapies. Integrative Therapies include Acupuncture, Hypnosis, Massage, Meditation, Reiki, Yoga. These therapies can aid in symptom management, relieve stress, improve comfort, and promote wellness for those undergoing treatment for cancer and beyond treatment for self-care and empowerment. Take an active role in your health care plan.
NOTE – Consult your oncologist physician or nurse prior to using Complementary, Alternative or Integrative Therapies. Some therapies and supplements may be contraindicated for your care. Discuss with your doctor.
For Information About Complementary Therapies – https://nccih.nih.gov
Join me Over the Bridge. Saturday. November 14th
Wishing You the Best in Health, Karen
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.
Complementary and Integrative Therapies for Supportive Cancer Care
Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit
Hospitals around the country are offering integrative therapies as part of comprehensive, collaborative cancer treatment. According to the National Center Complementary and Integrative Health Integrative Medicine is a total approach to healthcare combining standard (conventional) medicine with complementary therapies that have been studied and shown to be safe and effective.
Integrative Therapies for Cancer Care
Complementary and Integrative Therapies – (include but are not limited to) – Acupuncture, Expressive Art, Hypnosis, Massage, Mediation, Mindfulness, Music Therapy, Reiki, Tai Chi, Yoga and Qi Gong.
Complementary and Integrative Approaches for Cancer Symptoms and Treatment Side Effects –
“NCCIH-funded research has suggested that:
- Cancer patients who receive integrative therapies while in the hospital have less pain and anxiety.
- Massage therapy may lead to short-term improvements in pain and mood in patients with advanced cancer.
- Yoga may relieve the persistent fatigue that some women experience after breast cancer treatment.”
(Source: https://nccih.nih.gov/health/integrative-health)
- A study by Birocco et al. found that Reiki (ray-kee) sessions (one to four half-hour sessions in this study) provided to 118 patients receiving chemotherapy in an outpatient infusion clinic were helpful in improving well-being, relaxation, pain relief, sleep quality and reducing anxiety. Those that received the full 4 sessions had a significant (P <.000001) reduction in anxiety. (Source: The effects of Reiki therapy on pain and anxiety in patients attended a day oncology and infusion services unit. Am J Hosp Palliat Care. 2012 Jun;29(4):290-4.)
Reiki Promotes a Relaxed State of Mind and Body
- Self-Hypnotic induction decreased pain and anxiety in women undergoing large core breast biopsy (Source: Adjunctive Self-hypnotic Relaxation for Outpatient Medical Procedures: A Prospective Randomized Trial with Women Undergoing Large Core Breast Biopsy. Lang, E., et al. Pain. 2006 December 15; 126(1-3): 155–164.
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Acupuncture has been shown to be an effective and safe adjunct therapy for cancer care for: chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Studies also suggest acupuncture may be helpful in managing cancer-related pain, chemotherapy-related neutropenia, chemotherapy-induced neutropenia, cancer fatigue, and radiation-induced dry mouth (xerostomia.) (Source: The Value of Acupuncture in Cancer Care. weeding, L. et al. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am. 2008 Aug; 22(4) 631-viii. NIHMSID: NIHMS65572
Auricular Acupuncture
Hospitals offering Integrative Therapies – in Boston include – Beth Israel-Deaconness, Boston Medical Center, Dana Farber, Mass General, and Tufts Medical Center. North of Boston – Lahey Healthcare (Beverly, Burlington, Danvers, Peabody, Winchester,) North Shore Medical Center (Lynn, Salem) and Mass General North (Danvers.)
Communicate with your oncology doctors and nurses about your use of integrative therapies for supportive care during treatment. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary health approaches you use to ensure coordinated, effective and safe care.
Important to Note: Some integrative therapies, over-the-counter medications, herbs and supplements may not be warranted or even be contraindicated because they may negatively impact your care during treatment for cancer. Check with you doctor, oncologist, and oncology nurse prior to using to assure safe, effective care.
What You Need to Know About Complementary and Integrative Therapies and Cancer Care – the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Therapies conducts and supports research, and provides information about complementary health products and practices. Rigorous studies are conducted to determine the safety and effectiveness of therapies, herbs and supplements. For More Information – https://nccih.nih.gov/health/tips/cancer
6 Things You Need to Know About Complementary Therapies – https://nccih.nih.gov/health/tips/cancer
How to Find a Complementary and Integrative Practitioner –https://nccih.nih.gov/health/howtofind.htm
Catch the Wave and Join in Reid’s Ride this Sunday!
Riding for Reid
Catch the Wave – Over 500 riders and 42 teams this year! Still time to Register. 2 days until Reid’s Ride – Sunday. July 19th!!
Where – Lynnfield to Stage Fort Park, Gloucester, Massachusetts.
How You Can Support Reid’s Ride –
- Donate on-line – http://www.firstgiving.com/Reidsride/2015-11th-annual-reids-ride
- Buy a Raffle Ticket on Sunday– lots of prizes, including Red Sox Tickets and a ‘Basket of Wellness.’
- Stop by the ‘Wellness Tent’ on Sunday between 8:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. and Donate for a Wellness Session – Reiki, Reflexology or Massage. (FREE to Riders, ‘by Donation’ for others. 100% of the proceeds for Reid’s Ride.) http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/DreamtimeWellness/2015-11th-annual-reids-ride.
- Come out to Stage Fort Park, overlooking beautiful Gloucester Harbor, and share your support on Sunday!
In memory – This year we dedicate the ‘Wellness Tent’ in honor and memory of Tina Ketchopulos, FOB and beloved friend, loved by many and missed by all who knew her. Tina first invited me to take part in this fundraiser in 2011, for which I am most grateful. Tina was a ‘daily breath of fresh air and sunshine,’ always smiling and ready to lend an ear or a hand, supporting many community events and charities.
‘Motivated by Love. Guided by Spirit.’ Why They Ride – to continue Reid’s Dream to end cancer.
AYA Facts:
- Every 7 minutes an AYA is diagnosed with cancer in the U.S.
- Cancer is the #1 disease related cause of death among AYA
- Clinical trials are one of the most important tools for bringing improved and new therapies to cancer patients, but there haven’t been enough clinical trials for AYA cancer patients to make any meaningful progress in survival rate.
You Can Make a Difference! Join the Wave!
Catch the Wave – Reid’s Ride
Cancer Programs for Adolescents and Young Adults – Through this funding, the Reid R. Sacco Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Program opened the first of its kind in New England – Adolescent & Young Adult (AYA) cancer program and clinic at Tufts Medical Center and at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, providing directed care and treatment to AYA cancer patients.
For more info – http://www.cancerinyoungadults.org.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezBp92AHnEM
~ Remembering those we’ve lost. Honoring and supporting those in treatment.
Commemorating survivors. With Gratitude. ~
May your generous ‘gifts of abundance’ return 10-fold, and may these gifts of abundance be used to help many.
~ Karen Pischke, BSN, RN
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.
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/
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 …,
A Wet But Enthusiastic Crowd.
Seeking Shelter From the Rain.
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. ~
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.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
~ 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
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.
Cape Ann Wellness 