31/05/2024

Overcoming first-time acupuncture fears with Katie Molloy

This acupuncture isn't your thing?

Let acupuncturist Katie Molloy change your mind . . .

Q1. What common concerns do individuals typically have regarding acupuncture?

A. When we think of needles in healthcare we typically think of syringes used to take blood or administer injections. And there's usually some level of pain associated with these!

So it figures that people are often worried about acupuncture being painful and something to 'endure' rather than relax into and enjoy. Most of the time it's a pleasant surprise for my clients that acupuncture doesn't hurt at all.

There's the added benefit of being able to relax on the table with the pins in for half an hour and really enjoy the 'acu-nap' or waking meditation that comes with each treatment.

Q2. How do you address clients who are feeling anxious about the needles?

A. We go slow and steady . . . I'll choose points that I know are less sensitive to begin with and be extra gentle with my needling technique. I can't tell you how often clients ask, 'is that it?' after the first needle goes in.

They can then breathe out a big sigh of relief and most of the time enjoy the sensation of Qi flow and nervous system regulation. Acupuncture sensations have been described to me as if they've been 'plugged in to recharge,' 'deep relaxation like lying under a weighted blanket' and when the Qi really starts to flow, 'like being lit up like a Christmas tree.'

Q3. What steps do you take to create a calming atmosphere for acupuncture sessions?

A. If you've been into Esolab you know we take pride in making the clinic a treat for all the senses. We choose a playlist each day of tranquil, beautiful music (my favourite at the moment are jazz piano and tibetan singing bowls), we diffuse natural essential oils and make sure the rooms are cosy with comfy towels, blankets and infrared heat lamps.

Most importantly though, we make sure to meet you where you need to be that day. Sometimes there will be a lot to talk about and give health and lifestyle advice. Sometimes you'll need to hop straight up on the table and let the needles do their thing.

Part of our job is to make you feel comfortable, seen and heard, so the magic can happen.

Q4. What sensation is experienced when an acupuncture needle is inserted?

A. Usually there's a small pinch when the needle breaks the surface of the skin, which then becomes a deep heaviness as the Qi of the acupuncture point meets the needle and Qi of the practitioner. In Chinese this sensation is called de Qi, 'arrival of Qi.' Then you might not feel much during the course of your acu-nap, or you may feel some movement along the acupuncture channels, as the treatment takes effect.

Q5. Do you have a favourite success story?

A. My favourite go-to point is Yintang, between the eyebrows, also known as the third eye. It works like acupuncture valium and will soothe down even the most over-active brain.

Ready to take the leap???

Book in for acupuncture and lets start your healing journey!

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