The Gift of the Present
The Gift of the Present
The holidays are a time of joy, connection, and warmth, yet can be stressful at times. While numerous techniques exist to relax and de-stress, Reiki is one of the first that comes to mind as it offers a nurturing way to support mind-body balance. One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and our loved ones is to be wholly present and fully experience the magic of the season. By incorporating simple, energy-focused practices from FMCOFNJ’s Reiki Master, Karen Overgaard, you can move through the holidays with greater ease, resilience, and joy.
What is Reiki?
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a Japanese healing technique known for its ability to promote balance and well-being. Often described as “energy healing,” Reiki is based on the belief that a life force energy flows through all living beings. When this energy is low or blocked, we may feel stressed, fatigued, or even become ill. Reiki practitioners, such as Karen, use a gentle touch or place their hands just above the body to guide and balance this energy, promoting physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. “I love the idea of having the option of healing through touch. My tools are my hands, and I serve as a conduit for the patient’s energy,” adds Karen.
Benefits of Reiki:
Benefits of Reiki:
Stress Reduction & Relaxation – Reiki can promote a deep sense of relaxation, helping release tension and stress. This can lead to better sleep, improved focus, and a sense of calm, even in chaotic situations
Emotional Clarity – Reiki practitioners balance the energy centers in the body, which may enhance emotional well-being and help manage anxiety, sadness, or overwhelm.
Pain Relief – Many people find that Reiki helps to reduce chronic pain, inflammation, and other physical discomforts by addressing the root causes of energy imbalances.
Tips to Manage Energy & Remain Centered During Stressful Times:
Tips to Manage Energy & Remain Centered During Stressful Times:
Grounding Breath Meditation - Take a few moments each day to ground yourself. Sit in a quiet space, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths. Imagine roots growing from your feet into the earth, anchoring and stabilizing you. As you exhale, release any tension or negative energy. This helps calm your nervous system and improves focus.
Hand on Heart Centering Technique - When feeling overwhelmed, place one hand gently over your heart. Take slow, deep breaths, focusing on the warmth and connection. This small act can instantly bring comfort, help calm racing thoughts, and remind you to be present and compassionate toward yourself.
About Karen:
About Karen:
Karen Overgaard is deeply committed to healing and helping others. With over 35 years of experience, she brings her expertise to patients at FMCOFNJ as an LPN, Reiki Master, registered yoga teacher, holistic health counselor, postpartum doula, certified infant massage instructor, and lactation specialist. Her passion for guiding others on their healing journey began in childhood and has flourished into a lifelong dedication to holistic care. While Karen has numerous certifications, Reiki is her favorite! “I love being part of the healing process using this gentle modality,” she says. “I am honored to be part of the Functional Medicine Center of New Jersey. We are an amazing team with a mutual goal: taking care of people by getting to the root cause and offering holistic options for healing.”
