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So tomorrow I'm heading to my first-ever appointment for acupuncture. This comes after six years of fighting allergies that leave me feeling fatigued and so fog-headed, I feel like I've had a few very stiff drinks. I'm told that my allergies may be attributed to an imbalance in my spleen and that I need to avoid dairy and sugar, which tax the little thing and keep it from helping me fight my body's foes. I'm excited about the process of maybe treating the problem rather than the symptoms, which I've been doing with various OTC medications.
In the meantime, I'm also hoping it will help me get over my intense fear of needles. Yup, I'm a fainter, so this should be interesting ... Does anyone have any words of wisdom or experiences to share with me?
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I am scared to bits of needles and can't bear to see them anywhere near my skin. So, the thought of having 30 needles in me makes me cringe.
All the same, a couple of friends of mine see an acupuncturist (also happens to be Chinese) and have had great things to say about their experience.
I'm happy to hear you felt so good after your treatment!
April 9, 2008 - 6:33pmThis Comment
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