I’ve never had acupuncture before, but my friend in New York swears by it. Can you help me with my anxiety/back pain/hot flashes/etc. ?

A version of this question gets asked a lot. Generally, the answer is yes. I focus on the person, the way the energy flows through or doesn’t, and the problems it creates when it’s been stuck for too long.

How many sessions does it take to feel better?

Seeing an improvement generally happens within the first few sessions, often after the first visit. Some conditions have resolved quickly (1-3 visits), others need more time (10-20 sessions). Many factors contribute to coming back into balance, including lifestyle, medication, state of mind. It is best to keep the initial sessions close together so that there is an accumulation of fertile qi allowing change to take place.

Why should I keep coming back if I feel better?

There may be deeper causes for the condition that brought you in that need to be addressed, otherwise the problem will return. If the problem was caused by lifestyle, I will offer suggestions for modifying diet, exercise, bad habits, etc, so you don’t need to come back as often.

What if I like my bad habits, can acupuncture/herbs help to keep away the bad side effects?

Yes, but not for too long. Some conditions like insomnia, acid reflux, gout, headaches, weight gain and so many others have their origin in poor lifestyle choices which have shown up after years of neglect. Acupuncture and herbs can ameliorate them and buy some time, but unless there is a change in lifestyle, the condition is bound to return :(.