
Community AcupunctureCommunity acupuncture is a rapidly growing movement which began with Working Class Acupuncture in Portland, Oregon. Each community acupuncture clinic is independently owned and unique in its own way. However, we all share one common goal, which is to make acupuncture more affordable and accessible by offering acupuncture in a supportive community setting for a sliding scale. Most US acupuncturists treat patients on tables in individual cubicles. This is not traditional in Asia, where acupuncture usually occurs in a community setting. At Healthy Being Wellness Boutique individuals are worked on in recliners in a quiet, soothing common room. Also, with this more traditional style, less time is spent talking and the acupuncturist relies more on tongue and pulse diagnosis to decide how she will treat you. This allows the acupuncturist to see more patients in an hour so that we can keep prices down for you. The group setting has benefits beyond just affordability. As with any kind of intentional group endeavor—such as meditation or prayer, for example—when you do something with other people it raises the energy for everyone. It’s the same with acupuncture: receiving treatment in a room with others raises the Qi dynamic and healing is enhanced. It’s also nice for friends and family to be able to come in together. Another difference is that you decide when you feel ‘done’ before removing the needles. The ‘right’ amount of time will vary from patient to patient, and may vary for you from visit to visit. (If the acupuncturist is busy she may have to limit the time to one hour.) We feel this helps to empower you in your healing process by letting you listen to your body and have input in your treatment. Please wear loose comfortable clothing; we need to be able to access your elbows and knees. Tank tops and button down shirts are helpful too. Please refrain from wearing colognes or strong scents, as some of our patients have chemical sensitivity. Some of our patients fall asleep and snore; bring earplugs or headphones if you wish. Please take all personal belongings with you into the treatment room, and turn off your cell phone. The soothing atmosphere in the community room exists because our patients create it by relaxing together. To help us maintain this oasis of calm, we ask that you please speak in whispers and do not socialize with others while you’re in the room. Will I have to undress in front of other people?No. The style of acupuncture we practice uses "distal" points. Meaning we can treat problems anywhere in the body by placing tiny needles in your hands and feet. Generally the acupuncture points that we use are located below the knees, below the elbows, and on the ears and head. So nobody needs to undress. Most people just come in make themselves comfortable on one of our couches, take their shoes off, roll up their sleeves and pant legs, and relax while they wait for treatment. Does acupuncture hurt?Most people do not find acupucture painful. The needles are very small, about the width of a cat whisker. The insertion of the needle sometimes feels like nothing at all, other times it may feel like a small tap or a pinch. Common sensations that people feel while the needle is in include slight tingling, numbness, pressure, or aching around the needle. These sensations are normal and often considered beneficial to the treatment. We will ask you to let us know if any of the needles are uncomfortable. If they are we will adjust them to your comfort level. How many treatments will I need?Acupuncture is a process. It is very rare for any acupuncturist to be able to resolve a problem with one treatment. The number of treatments you will need can depend on many factors. On your first visit, your acupuncturist will suggest a course of treatment. This can range from "we'd like to see you once a week for the next six weeks" to "we'd like to see you every day for the next three days". This suggestion is based on our experience in treating different conditions. Generally most people notice an improvement within 4-6 visits and a typical course of treatment for an uncomplicated problem is 6-12 visits. However, if you don't come in often enough or long enough, acupuncture probably won't work for you. The purpose of our sliding scale is to help you make that commitment. Is acupuncture safe?Yes. Acupuncture is considered very safe. In fact, the National Institutes of Health reports that one of the benefits of acupuncture is its low incidence of adverse side effects.The World Health Organization recognizes the use of acupuncture and herbology in the treatment of a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Acupuncture is provided by Dr. Dani a licensed Acupuncture Physician. Our first session starts December 2nd. 727-502-3464 |