ON PINS AND NEEDLES

So what to expect at your first acupuncture session? It may seem daunting or a bit scary, but I promise you it doesn't hurt, and it is actually quite relaxing. Let's demystify it a bit, so you won't be intimidated. After reviewing your medical history, you'll be asked about your sleep, energy, appetite, and yes, even your bowel movements. And then the acupuncturist will feel your pulses and look at your tongue (I'll post more about that later). Once we've established your Chinese medical diagnosis, we choose acupuncture points to treat the disharmony. The amount of points will vary depending on your issues and the type of medicine the acupuncturist practices. Once the pins are in, you'll lay in a tranquil room for 15-30 minutes, again depending on your issues. Once the pins are removed, you should feel peaceful, relaxed, perhaps energized, perhaps sleepy. It's best to not rush to the gym or have a job interview right after. Give yourself a bit of time to enjoy the tranquility.

See? No big whoop. Call your acupuncturist and set up an appointment.