Getting the most out of your acupuncture appointment
Acupuncture is more than just a treatment. When your session is built on your relationship with your acupuncturist, open communication and the right preparation, it can be a genuinely fulfilling experience.
How you prepare for and approach your appointment can make a real difference in how you feel afterward.
Let’s take a look at a few of the ways great acupuncture starts before you even step through the door—and how you can get the most out of your appointment.
Eat before your appointment. A couple of hours before your appointment, make sure you have a light meal. Low blood sugar can make you feel lightheaded or dizzy, and your body needs fuel to respond well to treatment. Try to avoid caffeine or alcohol, as they can interfere with your nervous system’s ability to fully relax.
What you wear matters, too. Loose, comfortable clothing is ideal because it allows easy access to common acupuncture points without the need to undress. If you're not sure which areas might be used, just ask your practitioner when you arrive—we’ll guide you.
Arrive a few minutes early so you can transition out of the hustle of your day and into a more restful headspace. Use that time to silence your phone, take a few deep breaths and let your body know it’s time to slow down.
Communication is a key part of your session. Be honest about what you’re feeling—both physically and emotionally. Acupuncture treats the whole person, and we can tailor your treatment more effectively when we know what’s going on.
Don’t downplay your symptoms or overthink what’s “worth mentioning.” That random shoulder ache or recent trouble sleeping might be connected to other things we treat during your appointment.
Give yourself permission to let go. You don’t need to meditate or do anything specific—just allow your body to rest. Some people feel tingling, warmth or heaviness around the needles, while others feel nothing at all. All of it is normal. If anything feels sharp or uncomfortable, speak up! Acupuncture isn’t supposed to hurt, and your practitioner can make adjustments right away.
After your appointment is just as important as before and during your appointment. Take things easy if you can. Drink water, avoid rushing off to something stressful and notice how your body feels throughout the rest of the day. Some people feel energized, others sleepy or introspective. These are all signs that your nervous system is recalibrating. Try not to judge your experience too quickly—acupuncture often works cumulatively, and its benefits can deepen over time with consistent care.
Most of all, think of your acupuncture appointment as a partnership between you and your practitioner, and between you and your body. The more you show up—mindfully and consistently—the more your body will meet you there.
In health and wellness,
Julie