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Trees and Mountains

~ Your First Visit ~
What to Expect & How to Prepare

What to Expect at Your Acupuncture Visit

If you're new to acupuncture, you might be wondering what it feels like, how to prepare, and what kind of results to expect. At Mulberry Acupuncture & Wellness, our goal is to make your experience relaxing, empowering, and deeply supportive — from your very first visit.

 

Your First Appointment: A Deeper Look

Your initial visit lasts about 90 minutes and includes:

 

In addition to acupuncture, we may incorporate other therapies such as cupping, gua sha, moxibustion (moxa), or electrical stimulation (e-stim) when appropriate. These techniques can enhance circulation, reduce muscle tension, and increase treatment effectiveness — and we'll always explain them beforehand so you feel informed and comfortable.

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  • A comprehensive health consultation. We’ll explore your health history, current concerns, symptoms, medications, lifestyle, and your personal wellness goals.

  • Pulse and tongue diagnosis. These traditional tools help us understand your internal patterns and guide your treatment strategy.

  • Personalized treatment planning. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of what we’re working on, how often we recommend treatments, and how we’ll measure progress.

  • Your first acupuncture session. We’ll select points based on your individual diagnosis and gently insert ultra-fine, sterile needles. Most people feel little to no discomfort, and many find the treatment deeply calming.

 

You’ll rest with the needles for 20–30 minutes in a warm, quiet room with calming music playing in the background. This is your time to let go — to rest, reset, and begin healing.

 

What Acupuncture Feels Like

You might feel a small prick when the needle is inserted, or nothing at all. When the point activates, you may notice a dull ache, heaviness, warmth, or tingling — a sensation we call de qi. That’s a good sign that the treatment is working.

If anything ever feels unusual or uncomfortable during your treatment, just let us know — it’s easy for us to adjust. Everyone’s body is unique, and we’re here to make sure you feel completely at ease.

 

Follow-Up Treatments

Follow-up sessions are about 60 minutes. We’ll check in on your symptoms, reassess your pulse and tongue, and continue with your customized treatment.

 

Typical schedule:

  • 2 sessions per week for 2–3 weeks to build momentum

  • Then 1 session per week for 3–4 weeks

  • Gradually reduce to biweekly, monthly, or seasonal maintenance as your condition improves

This step-down approach helps ensure long-term results and reduces the chance of symptoms returning.

 

What You Might Notice

After treatment, many people feel relaxed, grounded, or pleasantly sleepy. Others feel more energized and clear-headed. Over time, you may notice:

  • Improved sleep

  • Better digestion

  • Fewer pain flares

  • More stable mood

  • Increased resilience to stress

Even if you’re not dealing with a specific diagnosis, acupuncture can help you feel more balanced, vibrant, and at ease in your body.

 

How to Prepare for Your Visit

  • Eat a light meal or snack beforehand (don’t come on an empty stomach)

  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing

  • Bring your questions — we love to explain how everything works!

 

We’re honored to be part of your healing journey. Whether it’s your first time trying acupuncture or you’re returning after a break, we’re here to help you feel supported, safe, and cared for.

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