I have patients ask me all the time, what should I do or not do after a treatment?

My advice every time, listen to your body and take care of your self. It sounds rather vague so here are some tips:

First off, I believe that the treatment starts even before the session begins, give your self some time even if it’s arriving 10 min before your treatment.  Take time for your heart rate to slow down, let your mind relax.  Turn off the external world, put the cell on silent, sit and be still. I know it’s hard for us busy people but believe me it’s worth that extra time to transition from the external world to your internal world.

After the treatment, rest…. you don’t need to lay down and take a nap even though it would be a bonus, but my advice, do all your errands before, so  you don’t need to be engaged right away in the external world.

Savour the relaxed energy boost (as I like to call it). You all know what I mean.

Resting the body and mind sets the healing in motion, if you’re feeling tired after a treatment chances are you probably need it.

Be gentle with exercise, walking of course is fine, but please no running or bootcamp after a session.

Avoid alcohol and coffee, before and afterwards, at least for half a day or a whole day if possible. These both dehydrate the body and you want to stay hydrated with water or herbal tea, in case the body needs to flush out any toxins after the session.

Some patients feel like something is different after a treatment. They may have difficulty focusing or concentrating. It’s the bodies way of healing internally, shutting down the external stimulation and allowing the body to heal its self. Increase awareness in emotions is also a common one, it’s a wonderful sign that the body is releasing his/her emotions naturally. There is only so much that we can keep inside and acupuncture treatments can help to melt those tight barrier away. With a professional reading the signs from the body, they can help facilitate letting go of those emotions.

If possible, stay in that “acubliss” place for as long as you can. All those wonderful electronic devices and social engagements  can wait!  They  might keep us connected to the rest of the world, but what about you staying connected to yourself?

Eat a nourishing meal, with intent and don’t forget to chew! Slow down, breath and try to be mindful of healing your body with the power of food.

Now, I hope that you can incorporate some, or all of these tips. Try it for your next session…..