May 7, 2020 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Celebrating Nurses Week: Supporting Nurses with Sessions for Relaxation and Stress Relief

Your expertise, care, compassion, courage and dedication are much appreciated!

Be sure to make time for self-care, in the process!

We are offering FREE 20-minute Consultation Sessions and Webinar Meditations for Nurses and Other Front-line Healthcare Workers; Breathing Relaxation and Guided Imagery. (Offered throughout the MA ‘stay at home’ directive. One per person) Contact Us to Schedule: Email: dreamtimewellness@gmail.com.

Karen Pischke BSN, RN, Alumnus CCRN, Nurse Researcher, Integrative Nurse Consultant, Author, Speaker, Photographer. Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness LLC. Your Bridge to Health: Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body and Spirit. Karen is a registered nurse with a background in critical care nursing, cardiac rehabilitation, cardiac risk factor reduction, wellness and integrative healthcare. Incorporating a collaborative, integrative approach, Karen strives to educate, advocate for, and empower you in your healthcare goals. Providing evidence-based integrative healthcare services and self-care tools that are safe as well as effective at improving overall health, happiness and wellbeing. www.DreamtimeWellness.com. 978.283.4258. Email: dreamtimewellness@gmail.com. Find us on Instagram and Facebook

April 22, 2020 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Celebrate Earth Day 2020 with a ‘Virtual’ Walk in the Woods

Today is the 50th Anniversary of ‘Earth Day.’ Be sure to spend some time in nature today, in gratitude, as you celebrate this wondrous planet where we all live. We are the earth’s caregivers and protectors, and that was never more evident and important than now. As Astronaut Carl Sagan’s photo demonstrated and spoke of, the earth is but a tiny speck of dust in the Universe. “Everyone you love, everyone you know, everyone you ever heard of, every human being who ever was, lived out their lives,” Sagan later wrote. “On a mote of dust suspended in a sunbeam.”Candy Hansen, a planetary scientist at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory who worked on the Voyager imaging team noted, “It also made me think about how vulnerable our tiny planet is.”

‘Shinrin yoku’ – Japanese ‘Forest Bathing.’ Shinrin in Japanese means “forest,” and yokumeans “bath.” Shinrin-yoku means ‘bathing in’ or ‘taking in’ the forest atmosphere through all of your senses.

We all know how being in nature can make us feel good. The practice of ‘Shinrin yoku’ means ‘being in’ and ‘connecting with’ nature through your all of your senses – sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch. Enjoying the sounds of the forest, birds singing, insects and animals moving through the woods, the wind rustling through the leaves, the scent of the earth, leaves, flowers and trees, the sunlight filtering through the leaves, the clean fresh air. Enjoying flora and fauna in nature, while escaping the sounds and routines of everyday life. These experiences in nature, and the time you take away fromthe ‘hustle and bustle,’ provides a sense of peace, comfort and calm. Being in nature can reenergize, refresh and rejuvenate you, improving your overall health and sense of wellbeing.

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April 20, 2020 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Preventing the Spread of Disease and Boosting Your Immune System

To stay ‘healthy and safe’ during this national/global health crisis, it is important to be aware of and follow the advice of local, state, national and international government and public health departments guidelines.

Depending on where you live in the world, those recommendations vary as well as can change daily. Sources to find up-to-date, accurate, evidence-based information include: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institutes of Health (NIH), World Health Organziation (WHO), and the United Nations (UN), as well as state and local Public Health Departments.

Take care of yourself and doing everything you can to stay healthy and boost your immunity:

Rigorous hand washing,
Keep a healthy environment,
Eat healthy balanced, nutritious meals,
Avoid drugs, smoking, excess drinking,
Spend time in nature,
Minimize stress,
Get adequate sleep.

Follow the Department of Public Health (DPH) Guidelines for ‘Social Distancing,’ ‘Stay at Home’ and ‘Face Covering‘ Guidelines from the CDC, Gloucester DPH and MA DPH.

‘Preparation and Prevention’ Information from the CDC:

Foods that support a healthy immune system, from Mayo Clinic

Boosting Immunity from Harvard Health

Managing St ress and Anxiety in the Midst for a Crisis from the CDC –

Things you can do to support yourself during a crisis –

Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate. Eat healthy, well-balanced meals. Exercise regularly. Get plenty of sleep. Avoid alcohol and drugs.
Spend time in nature (while wearing face covering and maintaining 6 foot distance).
Make time to unwind. Do some activities or hobbies you enjoy.
Music is healing: listening to or playing. (Try Live streaming, you-tube and facebook house parties).
Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
Connect with other ‘virtually’ via phone, on-line webinars, FaceTime.

If stress gets in the way of your daily activities for several days in a row, call your healthcare provider.

At Dreamtime Wellness we are offering Free 20-minute Phone Consultations (one per person) for those in need of support, stress relief, pain management and smoking cessation. During this health crisis, all our services and products for relaxation, stress management and smoking cessation are offered ‘virtually’ at discounted prices, ‘sliding scale,’ ‘by donation’ or some for free (one per person), depending on your individual circumstances and needs. Contact us for details and to schedule a consultation or session.

Our hours for ‘virtual’ sessions are Monday through Thursday. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Some evening and weekend sessions will be available for ‘essential workers’ who work during the day and, any front-line workers.

~ We are all in this together, and together we will all get through this. ~

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.

April 2, 2020 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Dreamtime Wellness is Offering ‘Virtual’ Sessions: #StayHomeStaySafeSaveLives

During the International Pandemic Emergency, We REMAIN OPEN, offering emotional support, products and ‘virtual’ sessions for Healthy Coping, Relaxation, Stress Relief and Pain Management.

In consideration for your and everyone’s safety, we are following the MA Department of Public Health’s Directive to ‘Stay Home’

Though we are temporarily unable to offer ‘in-person,’ office, home, hospice or hospital sessions, we continue to support you and your good health and promote optimal well being, in the best and safest way possible – ‘Virtual’ Sessions and Products Offered at *Discounted Prices.

Including but not limited to: Instruction in and sessions of breathing relaxation (variety of techniques), guided imagery, visualization, hypnotherapy/self-hypnosis, meditation (variety of techniques), reiki (variety of techniques), tobacco treatment/smoking cessation, and more.

*Offering ‘Virtual’ Sessions: ‘Discounted’, ‘sliding scale,’ ‘by donation,’ and in some cases, ‘free.’ (Per person limits) Cost varies by type of session/product, and individual needs. Contact us for details and/or to set up your ‘virtual’ session. Email: dreamtimewellness@gmail.com.

FREE 20-minute Phone Consultations/Sessions for ‘Breathing Relaxation and Support. (one per person). Email to schedule.

~ We are all in this together …, and together, we will all get through this, especially when we all follow the guidelines and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the MA Department of Public Health. ~

#StayHomeStaySafeSaveLives #LoveYourNeighborFromADistance

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March 18, 2020 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

During This National Emergency, Dreamtime Wellness LLC Goes ‘Virtual’

“Caution, without panic,” is the directive of our national, state and local officials as well as our healthcare agencies, during this national emergency.

As we learn new information daily regarding the unfolding COVID-19 pandemic my utmost priority continues to be the health and safety of my patients and the greater community. While many of my clients are healthy, others fall into the ‘high risk’ category, as designated by the Centers of Disease and Prevention (CDC). After careful deliberation I decided to avoid seeing patients/clients/students in-person, in order to abide by the current ‘social distancing’ directive. This went into effect on March 16th, though I have not seen clients since 2.20.2020 due to travel, and then recovering at home since, from an injury sustained while ‘on retreat.’ I arrived home March 7th, to a different world.

Dreamtime Wellness™ offers education and services for relaxation, stress and pain management, so while this seems a prime reason for providing these services during this time of increased stress, providing them in-person, is not prudent at this time.

The health and safety of ‘all ‘ is of the utmost importance to me. This temporary closure of my physical office and in-person sessions/ classes is with your health, my health, and the health of all our families and communities in mind, especially the elderly, who are at highest risk of complications from this virus. The authorities have thus far indicated that “most people who contract the virus will have mild to moderate symptoms.” But, because of its contagious nature and no current vaccine, extreme measures are in order.

When it is deemed appropriate to do so, we will be back in the office offering sessions and classes, as well as offering home, hospice and hospital visits. In the meantime, I am making myself available as a resource to you and the community to assist with ‘relaxation and stress management’. I am offering ‘virtual’ services for support, while satisfying the ‘social distancing’ recommendation currently in place, in order to help keep you and everyone else healthy and safe.

Good Harbor Beach. Gloucester MA.

We are all in this together. And together, we will all get through this!

Be Calm. Be Kind. Be Cautious. Be Safe. Be Healthy.

(Read Below for Available Support Services).

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March 15, 2020 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Social Distancing: Caution without panic, to prevent the spread of disease

Local, State and Federal Governments Recommend ‘Social Distancing’ to decrease the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Massachusetts currently has the 4th highest # of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the United States. As of March 14th, there were five (confirmed or presumptive) cases in Essex County. The vast majority of those contracting the virus will have mild to moderate cold or flu-like symptoms.Some will have more serious illness. Minimizing spread of the virus and maintaining hand hygiene, other recommendations and healthy lifestyles are important. If you develop symptoms, call your primary care physician.

‘Social distancing’ means “remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet or 2 meters) from others when possible.” “Mass gatherings” is defined differently by different states. In the state of Massachusetts, gatherings of 250 or more are currently not recommended. In many instances. Many schools have closed and some businesses are having employees work from home whenever possible. Click on this link for more information on the importance of social distancing.

Choose your news from reliable sources, stop the rumors and avoid panic.

Below is More Information from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention:

Preventive Measures:

As a means of preventing transmission of any respiratory infection, please practice the following activities:

Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; Hand washing etiquette
Frequently clean common touchpoint surfaces, including but not limited to electronics, door knobs, and countertops;
Avoid sharing food utensils, containers, and other personal items;
Distance yourself from someone who appears sick;
Stay home from work if you are sick; and,
Etiquette for Coughing and Sneezing

“Older people, especially those with underlying health issues and compromised immune systems are more at risk. Early data suggest older people are twice as likely to have serious COVID-19 illness. In addition, people of all ages, with or without disabilities, seem to be at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19 if they have serious chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease.”

Reducing exposure is especially important for people at higher risk of complications!

If you are at higher risk, CDC recommends that you:

Stay at home as much as possible if COVID-19 is spreading in your community.
Make sure you have access to several weeks of medications and supplies in case you need to stay home for prolonged periods of time. CDC has great resources to help you plan.

Recommendations for Businesses from the Public Health Department and OSHA

Key Facts of the Coronavirus (CORVID-19) from the CDC

More information from the CDC. Information is changing rapidly, even daily and in some instances even more frequently; Stay up-to-date and informed through reliable sources like the ones mentioned here and through your local town, city and state public officials.

Remember, kindness and patience go a long ways during times of crisis! Take good care of yourself, and one-another.

Photo © Karen Pischke. Good Harbor Beach. Gloucester, MA

Social distancing?
if you are healthy, you can still get out and take a walk at the beach to relieve stress. Just follow the recommended (6 feet) social distance. Enjoy exercise, healthy fresh air, sunshine, and the sound of the sea at the beach. Or spend some time in your yard and garden, take a walk on the boulevard or in the woods, and enjoy all the benefits from being out in nature.

#socialdistancingatthebeach #lovecapeann #lovegloucester #publichealthinitiative

During this time of uncertainty, there can be increased anxiety and worry. Click here for information on Managing Stress and Coping

Sources:

Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
World Heath Organization (WHO)
United Nations

Dreamtime Wellness is offering support for relaxation, stress management and improved coping at discounted prices, sliding scale and even ‘free’ through ‘virtual’ sources during this health crisis during the week of March 17th. (See below)

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May 26, 2019 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Home of the Free, Because of the Brave

~ Remembering those we have loved and lost, with gratitude. ~

Dreamtime Wellness™ Offers Discounted Sessions for Stress and Pain Management to Veterans and Emergency Responders, who bravely assist others every day.

~ We Thank You for Your Service. ~

Photos for Inspiration and Meditation – Available in various sizes and media, framed or unframed and as PhotoArt Cards at the Bookstore of Gloucester, 61 Main Street. Gloucester MA. COMING SOON to Cape Ann Giclee On-Line Shop.

Enjoy a Healthy and Safe Memorial Weekend.

~ From Dreamtime Wellness™

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May 6, 2019 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Celebrating Nurse’s Week and 19 Years in Business

Nurses – Be Sure to Love and Take Care of Your SELF This Nurse’s Week!

Case Managers, Nurses, Nursing Students, CNA’s – For life-work balance and avoiding burnout, the most important lessons I learned have been to make time for vacations and learn self-care tools for daily relaxation and stress management. Self-hypnosis, meditation, mindfulness, reiki, tai-chi, and yoga are all helpful modalities that can be learned and practiced on your own or in a group.

Monthly Community Reiki Shares/Clinics and First Degree Reiki Training (CEU’s for Nurses, Case Managers and Social Workers) – Helpful ways to take care of yourself! When you take care of yourself first, you have more to offer to those you love.

Loving Others Begins With Loving Yourself. Self-Love Begins with Self-Care.

Our Annual ‘Gratitude Coupon.’ SAVE $19.00 on any Gift Certificate or Private Session of Reiki, Hypnosis or Reiki Training. Good Through End of 2019. (One Coupon Per Person.)

NURSES – SAVE an Additional $10.00 for any sessions or classes booked during the month of May.

Contact Us fo Schedule Your Discounted Sessions.

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February 5, 2019 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

American Heart Month: Learn ‘Self-Reiki for Self-Care’ and Relaxation

Cardiovascular Disease Effects Nearly 50% of Americans, according to the American Heart association. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.

To help prevent heart disease and increase awareness of its effects, Dreamtime Wellness LLC is proudly participating in American Heart Month.

FREE Blood Pressure check with any wellness session during the month of February
FREE Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Check Thursday, February 14. (Advanced Register)
Tobacco Treatment Counseling Sessions Discounted 50% during the month of February
1st Degree/Shoden Reiki Training, Saturday and Sunday. February 23 and 24th. No pre-requisite. Register in Advance.

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February 1, 2019 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

February is American Heart Month

February 1st Begin American Heart Health Month; Go Red!

Cardiovascular Disease Effects Nearly 50% of Americans, according to the American Heart association. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.

To help prevent heart disease and increase awareness of its effects, Dreamtime Wellness LLC is proudly participating in American Heart Month.

FREE Blood Pressure check with any wellness session during the month of February
FREE Blood Pressure Check at ‘Community Reiki Share’ Tuesday, February 5th. (Advance Register).
FREE Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Check Thursday, February 14. (Advanced Register)
Tobacco Treatment Counseling Sessions Discounted 50% during the month of February

The Good News – You can make healthy changes to lower your risk of developing heart disease. Controlling and preventing risk factors is also important for people who already have heart disease. To lower your risk:

Stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
Control your cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure.
If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
Daily activity.
Healthy eating.
Healthy weight.

Are You At Risk for Heart Disease? Talk to your doctor. Here is what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have to say about risk of heart disease –

According to a report from Harvard Medical School’s Harvard Health letter, “The latest research confirms that people who practice meditation are significantly less likely to have a heart attack or stroke or die within five years. Cardiologist and professor at Harvard Medical School was reported to state –

“Meditation can be a useful part of cardiovascular risk reduction.”

Meditation can help by:

Lowering stress
Lowering heart rate and blood pressure
Improved rate of breathing and blood oxygenation
Decreased insulin resistance and risk of diabetes
Reducing cortisol (hormone secreted in response to stress) levels

Check With Your Doctor Before Beginning a Mediation Program. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), “meditation is generally considered to be safe for healthy people, but there have been rare reports that meditation could cause or worsen symptoms in people with certain psychiatric problems like anxiety and depression. People with existing mental health conditions should speak with their health care providers before starting a meditative practice, and make their meditation instructor aware of their condition.”

For More Information or to Register for Our Programs, visit Dreamtime Wellness, call 978-283-4258 or email: info@dreamtimewellness.com,

Wear red this month, and help bring attention to American Heart Month.

Best in health,

Karen

#HeartMonth #MoveWithHeart #WearRedDay #NashWearRed

Sources and More Information:

Karen Pischke BSN, RN, Alumnus CCRN, Author, Speaker, Nurse Researcher, Photographer. Certified Hypnotherapist, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness LLC. Your Bridge to Health. Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body and Spirit. Karen is a registered nurse with a background in critical care nursing, cardiac rehabilitation, cardiac risk factor reduction, wellness and integrative healthcare. Incorporating a collaborative, integrative approach, Karen strives to educate, advocate for, and empower you in your healthcare goals. Providing evidence-based integrative healthcare services and self-care tools that are safe as well as effective at improving overall health, happiness and wellbeing. www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Instagram and Facebook