Reduce stress through mindfulness at Jefferson Healthcare program

Jefferson Healthcare offers a mindfulness-based stress reduction program Oct. 20-Nov. 17. Using Jon Kabat-Zinn’s mindfulness meditation work, the program focuses on practical strategies to recognize and reduce chronic emotional and physical stress as well as increase inner calm and well-being.

The mindfulness program consists of five two-hour sessions, taking place on Thursdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the Port Townsend Community Center, 620 Tyler St.

Cost for the program is $75 and includes practice CDs and a workbook for home practice. The class is facilitated by Jackie Levin, R.N., M.S., a patient advocate at Jefferson Healthcare.

Class size is limited, and registration is required by calling Levin at 385-2200, ext. 2235. There are scholarships available and no one is to be turned away for lack of funds.

Community memorial service set for Oct. 20

Hospice of Jefferson Healthcare presents its annual community memorial service on Thursday, Oct. 20 beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Anyone in East Jefferson County who has experienced the death of a loved one in the past year is invited to join, together with friends and family. This free, nondenominational service of remembrance emphasizes community and the celebration of life. The service includes music, candle lighting, a program of responsive readings, reflections and sharing, and is officiated by hospice staff and volunteers.

During the ceremony a memorial quilt, made by the Cabin Fever Quilters, is displayed, and family members and friends are encouraged to add a photo or memento to honor and remember their loved one.

The service takes place at Quimper Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 2333 San Juan Ave., Port Townsend. Afterward, refreshments and an opportunity to connect with other attendees are offered.

The memorial service is made possible by the Hospice Foundation of Jefferson Healthcare, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

MASH clinic now offers new services

The Jefferson County MASH clinic has expanded its services to include auricular acupuncture and foot care.

Auricular acupuncture involves the insertion of acupuncture needles into specific points on the ear and has been recognized as an effective complementary treatment for pain, stress, insomnia and withdrawal symptoms from cessation of tobacco, alcohol and drugs.

Local licensed acupuncturists are volunteering their services every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Foot care is JC MASH's newest service. Marta Krissovich, a licensed ARNP and a certified foot care nurse, provides foot care every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m.

These new services, in addition to the clinic's other medical services, are offered 6:30-8 p.m. on Tuesdays. All services are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are free of charge.

JC MASH Clinic is located at 1136 Water St., Suite 109, Port Townsend. Call 385-4268 for any questions.