On my journey to health and wellness I’ve expanded my universe and tried many new things. Whether it was exercise (pilates, crossfit and zumba come to mind) or dietary (vegan). When I was asked if I would be interested in a complimentary membership to experience acupuncture for weight loss I thought why not?
What is Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical practice. It consists of inserting thin needles in specific points on the body to treat a wide variety of medical issues and symptoms. The goal is restore your body’s energy, or chi, to it’s normal balance. It’s now widely practiced in the West.
About Acupuncture Express
When it was time for my first appointment I nervously headed into the Acupuncture Express offices. Natalie’s smiling face greeted me and before I was ready for my first treatment.
Acupuncture Express was founded by a mom, daughter and a best friend. They are the only acupuncture clinic in San Diego that offers a membership program that gives patients affordable monthly acupuncture visits.
One of the impressive things about this company is there charitable giving. For every paid membership they donate a membership to a chemotherapy patient.
Acupuncture can help boost pain management, the immune system and so much more. If you know someone in the San Diego area that is undergoing cancer treatment contact Acupuncture Express about this program.
Experiencing Acupuncture
Judy, my wonderful acupuncturist, reviewed my health history with me. She then gave me a high level explanation of Chinese medicine and the role of acupuncture.
Once all my questions were answered, she told me what clothing adjustments to make (it depends on your treatment which area the needles will be placed) and left me to get ready.
The treatment room has the ambiance and outfitting of a massage therapy area. The bed is very comfortable and even has warming capability for those that get cold in addition to blankets.
Judy let me know exactly how many needles she’d be placing as well as their location. I barely felt them being inserted. After ensuring I was okay I was left in position for 20 minutes with meditative background music and dimmed lights.
The first session felt like an eternity just because I didn’t know what to expect. The next time I thought the time flew and was ready to sleep!
I can tell you I usually get 16-20 needles each session and usually barely feel the insertion or have any bruising afterwards. Once in a while a needle is slightly painful and I think it may just be a nerve or something else going on with my body.
After four sessions I’m very comfortable getting acupuncture targeting weight loss. I think it would be more effective if I had more frequent treatments. I would definitely consider acupuncture for other medical issues.
You’re probably wondering if it’s helped me lose weight. I can’t say it has but I most certainly can’t say it hasn’t. All I know is that last year I didn’t make any progress (except backwards) for six months and that’s been reversed in 2014.
I consider it one of the tools in my weight loss arsenal. Have you tried acupuncture or any other non-traditional medicine?
Note: I received complimentary membership for media consideration.
Great post-I’ve been really curious about trying acupuncture. I might have to take the plunge now that I know it’s not super painful or scary!