✨ What to Expect
New to acupuncture? This will help you feel prepared.
Trying something new for your health can bring up a lot of questions. Will it hurt? What should I wear? Do I need to know what’s “wrong” before I come in?
Let’s take a breath—and walk through it together.
Before Your First Visit
After booking, you’ll receive a brief intake form to fill out online. It gives me a chance to review your health history and concerns ahead of time, so we can make the most of our time together.
There’s nothing special you need to do to prepare, but it’s a good idea to:
- Eat a light meal or snack beforehand (don’t come in on an empty stomach)
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing if possible
- Avoid caffeine right before your session, as it can make it harder to relax during treatment
During Your Session
We’ll start with a conversation. I’ll ask about your health, lifestyle, symptoms, and goals—not just what’s bothering you today, but how you’re feeling overall. I will likely use traditional diagnostic tools like pulse and tongue observation to get a clearer picture of what’s going on internally.
Then we’ll move on to treatment. Depending on what you need, your session may include:
- Acupuncture (gentle and precise—most people find it deeply relaxing)
- Cupping or Gua Sha for muscle tension or stagnation
- Herbal medicine to support your body between sessions
- Hands-on techniques like Tui Na, Zero Balancing, or Craniosacral Therapy
You’ll rest quietly during treatment—often under a cozy blanket—and I’ll check in to make sure you’re comfortable. Many people drift into a peaceful, meditative state (some even nap!).
After Your Session
Most people leave feeling relaxed, grounded, and sometimes a little floaty—that’s totally normal. Give yourself some time to ease back into your day.
Some tips:
- Stay hydrated
- Try not to schedule anything too demanding right after your visit
- Notice how you feel over the next few days—acupuncture often has a cumulative effect
A Few Quick FAQs
Does it hurt?
Not usually! Acupuncture needles are very thin—most people feel little to no discomfort. You might feel a light tapping, warmth, tingling, or a dull ache, all of which are normal signs that the treatment is working.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Loose, comfortable clothing is best. Many acupuncture points are located on the arms and legs, so being able to roll up sleeves and pant legs is helpful. If needed, I can provide draping for your comfort and privacy.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your goals and what we’re treating. Some people come in for a specific issue, others for ongoing wellness care. We’ll talk about what makes the most sense for you.
