How to Prepare for Acupuncture

Acupuncture is relaxing, calming and another alternative way to heal. Although it promises no cure for an ailment, it helps most people with problems such as depression, addictions, headaches, cramping, anxiety and many other ailments. If you are thinking about trying acupuncture, read this article.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Think about what you wish to accomplish your first visit, what you want to gain from acupuncture.
2. Go in with a positive outlook. A lot of people want to do this but they go in feeling skeptical. If you feed yourself negative thinking, you will never gain anything positive.
3. Acupuncture is not performed on individuals who are fasting. Being over-hungry increases the risk of nausea or dizziness. At the same time, do not overeat or eat any foods that cause you stomach upset (for example, rich, greasy, fried,or spicy foods).
4. Be as descriptive and specific as possible. For example, pain and discomfort are general. You may want to be more detailed by saying sharp or dull or burning pain.
5. Acupuncture is not performed on intoxicated individuals due to the increased risk of shock.
6. Set aside enough time so that you are not rushing to and from your visit. Your mind should be focused and clear. Any physical strain immediately before or after acupuncture can weaken your body.
7. Eat something light before your visit. I say about an hour or two before.
8. Try to avoid taking any pain medications or caffeine.
9. Focus on your breath as your accupuncturist works on you. You won't feel a thing for the needles are thinner than a hair strand.
10. Wear comfy lose fitting clothing. Acupuncture points are located all over the body. Many of the acupuncture points that are commonly used are located between the wrists and elbows, and the ankles and knees. You will be more comfortable if your clothing can be easily rolled up to your elbows and knees.
11. Tell the accupuncurist about any medications you are taking
12. Acupuncture does not hurt. You may feel a pinch while performed in certain areas such as the tiger's mouth which is located between the thumb and pointer finger or behind the knee. I personally found acupuncture extremely calming while ling down no my smooch, for in the neck and shoulders for me was absolutely relaxing and peaceful.
13. Check with your doctor if you are pregnant.
14. Acupuncture is usually 30 minutes each session, for about 50 bucks a session.
15. Call your health care provider to check to see if you are covered.
16. You should go for acupuncture at least once every 3 weeks if you are going to try it. it is a work in progress although some people find relief after one session.