“Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections but instantly set about remedying them – every day begin the task anew.” ~Saint Francis de Sales
Hello from rainy PDX! I have been busier than ever in my last year of school; with graduation on my mind and all the obligations that fall in between. I am currently interning at 3 community clinics in SE Portland and I couldn’t be more thankful for having the opportunity to work with such a diverse population of people.
Being present with each of my patients is essential in order to honor who they are and what they are presenting on any given day. My mission is to never take anyone for granted, especially when it comes to thinking about what their expectations or thoughts might be surrounding each treatment.
I thought it might be fruitful to share several thoughts on what I think is important for you to hear in order to encourage you to make your experience as a current or future Chinese medicine patient as wonderful as possible. 
This is only the start of what I can foresee as an extensive list of ideas, so please feel free to share your thoughts, ideas, and experiences!
- Be patient. Rome wasn’t built in a day and your body did not develop all those stresses over night. Deep transformation and healing requires a realistic expectation that may take weeks or months to target. Unfortunately we are in a “quick fix” society, so it is often hard to change this mindset. With the right practitioner, each treatment will provide a space of relaxation and forward movement. With time and patience, your body will readjust, cleanse, heal and aim for harmony. The key word is time. Perhaps this is why we are called patients; to be patient.
- If one practitioner doesn’t resonate with you, it does not mean the entire medicine doesn’t resonate with you. We all have specific needs in life and this is what makes diversity so beautiful. Keep in mind that Chinese practitioners are not one and all the same. We have many different styles and specialties of practicing. Doing your research and asking the appropriate people in your community for a good referral is a great first step (I am always available to help!). If you are unsatisfied for whatever reason after your treatment, see if you can find someone else. :) As in any relationship, we have to try things in order to know what is really best for us.
- Speak up! If you are uncomfortable in any way, have any questions or concerns, or have positive feedback, say something! Whether the room may be too cold or too warm, you like the music and ambiance, or the needle in your leg feels funny, I encourage you to speak up and let your practitioner know. This will only improve the quality of your experiences and help facilitate your body’s relaxation response for deeper healing. It is empowering to speak up for yourself. This time is all for you, make every moment worthwhile.
- You are in charge! What this means is that it’s up to you to take care of yourself in between treatments. The road to health involves medical supervision, but most importantly involves a lifestyle change. With a good practitioner, you will be sent home with dietary modifications, exercises, and/or suggestions on mental-emotional support. You are paying for this advice, and it is solely for your benefit. Your practitioner is not there by your side each day to see what you are doing, so you need to make a commitment to do your work and show up for yourself each day. Some things come easier than others and the most important thing in this process is to stay completely open and honest with yourself and your practitioner in order to continue receiving the support you need. You are in a safe, judgement-free zone!
Have a wonderful, healthful day!
Thank you for your words of wisdom and encouragement!