So went in yesterday for my first acupuncture treatment for allergies.
Have to admit going in I felt a mixture of anxiety and excitement -- anxiety because I hate needles and excitement in that I finally seemed to be taking control over something that had bothered me for years. The whole experience was a positive one ... despite my worrisome nature. Here's the quick-and-dirty version of how it went down for those who are considering but haven't tried it yet.
The doctor, who was also a professor of Chinese medicine, inserted 30 needles into my legs, arms, stomach, face and head, which took about 10 to 15 minutes. Aside from a few twinges of pain in my foot (where I had surgery a few years ago) I felt mostly just tapping on my skin.
Once the needles were in, spent about 25 minutes under a heat lamp and have to admit was ready for a nap about five minutes in. Once the needles were removed, the doctor passed along four packets of tea which I need to drink each morning and each night. It's a lot like instant coffee in preparation and tastes like chicken broth meets licorice. (Mmmm, tasty)
By the time I walked out, I noticed my breathing was eased and that I felt pretty calm. I also noticed that I didn't have the usual fatigue that I have after about 7 p.m. In fact, I made it all the way until 11:30 -- which is unheard of for me this time of year.
Have four more appointments to go -- at least this year and maybe some maintenance later on. Will let you know how long it lasts.
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So went in yesterday for my first acupuncture treatment for allergies.
Have to admit going in I felt a mixture of anxiety and excitement -- anxiety because I hate needles and excitement in that I finally seemed to be taking control over something that had bothered me for years. The whole experience was a positive one ... despite my worrisome nature. Here's the quick-and-dirty version of how it went down for those who are considering but haven't tried it yet.
The doctor, who was also a professor of Chinese medicine, inserted 30 needles into my legs, arms, stomach, face and head, which took about 10 to 15 minutes. Aside from a few twinges of pain in my foot (where I had surgery a few years ago) I felt mostly just tapping on my skin.
Once the needles were in, spent about 25 minutes under a heat lamp and have to admit was ready for a nap about five minutes in. Once the needles were removed, the doctor passed along four packets of tea which I need to drink each morning and each night. It's a lot like instant coffee in preparation and tastes like chicken broth meets licorice. (Mmmm, tasty)
By the time I walked out, I noticed my breathing was eased and that I felt pretty calm. I also noticed that I didn't have the usual fatigue that I have after about 7 p.m. In fact, I made it all the way until 11:30 -- which is unheard of for me this time of year.
Have four more appointments to go -- at least this year and maybe some maintenance later on. Will let you know how long it lasts.
April 9, 2008 - 11:55amThis Comment
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