I’ve written extensively about our company, DAO Labs, whose mission is to “deliver wellness through the wisdom of Chinese medicine and the healing powers of our innovative products.” Our formulas are powerful, but for me, they are also very personal: I’ve used both Chinese herbs and a standing appointment with an Acupuncturist to help relieve stress and anxiety, provide mental clarity and focus, and to generally keep cool when juggling all that’s on my very full plate.   The benefits from acupuncture, both professionally and personally, has been profound.

A Typical Acupuncture Appointment

I try and see my Acupuncturist about two times per month. Regardless of my mental “state”, I leave each appointment relaxed and mentally centered (note: that’s an objective of mine). A typical 60-minute appointment, in the most simplistic terms, is as follows:

• We do a quick review of my overall health – both physical and mental. We have ongoing goals that work on my stress and anxiety, but we can layer in other health concerns as well. Digestive health is always reviewed (it’s central in Chinese medicine), and a feel of my pulse and review of my tongue (seriously) are conducted as well.
• Now come the needles: Based upon the initial discussion, my Acupuncturist will insert anywhere from 10 – 20 needles at various points in my body.
• After all the needles are inserted, she leaves the room and I silently lay in the darkened space for approximately 30-45 minutes. Sometimes I fall asleep, but mostly I just relax.

The entire process takes an hour, and I’m back to work within 30 minutes.

Let's Talk About the Needles.  Does it Hurt?...

The short answer – no. Are there moments of discomfort? There can be, but they are very temporary and the longer-term benefits far (far!) out-weight any type of discomfort when the needles are inserted. To be sure, I wouldn’t be as religious if it were painful, though there are some types of acupuncture that can be (in other words, talk about this upfront with your acupuncturist).   In all events, a fear of the needles should not be one to keep you away.

The benefits of this practice cannot be understated:

• I am noticeably relaxed for several days. I’m mentally sharp and centered.
• My digestion is always improved. Again, this is noticeable.
• My immune system benefits: I’m around sick kids regularly and I know the acupuncture (and our herbs) make a tremendous difference.
• I always sleep better (though our sleep formulas help too).

Some Recommendations for Getting Started

Based on my acupuncture experiences, here’s what I would recommend to get started:

• Check with your insurance to see if acupuncture is included in your plan (it might be categorized under alternative or integrative medicine). If it is, you have no excuse to not give this practice a try.
• Get a recommendation. You’d be surprised the number of people who have seen an acupuncturist for one reason or another (from pain management to fertility support).
• Understand your goals and set expectations: I am very specific as to my personal needs for each appointment, while also realizing that some of the effects can take either a few days or multiple appointments to set-in.
• Use your appointment as an opportunity to meditate or if that’s a challenge, relax.

I’ve devoted this portion of my career to Chinese Medicine, in large part because for me and countless others, this beautiful practice works.   It’s a 60-minute personal retreat that’s part physical, part mental therapy, and part relaxation all bundled together.

Have questions? Send us a note and we’d be happy to connect you with one of the Acupuncturists in our community. 

If you’re not quite ready for acupuncture but are looking to experience the power of Chinese herbal medicine (particularly if you’re easily stressed), I’d recommend our Mental Tranquility formula.  The herbs are powerful and for me, quite effective.  Use code MTSLEEP and save 20% on your first order.

John G. McGarvey is a co-founder of DAO Labs and a regular contributor to The Way. A frequent visitor to China and Asia for both business and pleasure, he is an avid consumer of Chinese medicine. He can be reached at john@mydaolabs.com.