Sunday, November 20, 2011

My First Acupuncture Treatment

Today, I fulfilled another one of my 101 in 1001 goals.  I experienced my first acupuncture treatment!  I always wanted to try acupuncture and I'm glad I did because it was a unique experience.

For my first treatment, I let the acupuncturist know about my headaches and any other concerns.  He checked my pulse and looked at my tongue, which determines one's general health.  According to the acupuncturist, I was tired and dehydrated based on his observations.  He was right because the night before, I had a miserable headache and didn't eat anything or drink much since the day before.  I could barely sleep too.

Next, I prepared to have needles placed on both of my ears and one on my hand.  I was nervous because I hate pain, but thankfully it didn't hurt.   Once the needles were in, the acupuncturist pressed certain pressure points on my body and let me relax.   




The acupuncturist returned again and started a cupping treatment on my back.  Since it was my first treatment, it was left on for only 8-10 minutes to ensure my skin could handle the pull.  Luckily, my skin could handle it, although I am now wondering how long it will take for these red cup marks to disappear off of my back.

The cupping treatment was a little sore.  I didn't want to talk, move, cough, or anything because I could feel the cups pull.  I merely closed my eyes and tried to relax.  I'm glad I didn't see what cupping looked like before experiencing it. I was already feeling nervous and seeing these gruesome photos might have made me queasy.  Just kidding! However, after experiencing the treatment, I would try it again.  It's supposed to take out toxins from one's body.  It wasn't bad at all ...

At the end of the treatment, I felt extremely relaxed!  It was such a great experience.  I look forward to my next appointment since I have two more treatments to go!