Welcome to Awesome Qi: What to Expect at Your First Visit

Welcome to Awesome Qi. I'm honored you've chosen to begin your healing journey with me.

Whether this is your first acupuncture treatment or you've experienced Chinese Medicine before, my goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, supported, and truly heard.

Before your appointment, please make sure you've had something to eat and are well hydrated. Acupuncture works best when your body is nourished and supported. I also recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arms and legs.

Your initial appointment is approximately 90 minutes long and begins with a 30-minute consultation followed by an extended evaluation. This is where I get to learn about you and your health story. We will discuss your current concerns, health history, lifestyle, sleep, digestion, stress levels, and anything else that may help us understand the bigger picture.

The more information you share, the better I can understand how your body is functioning and what may be contributing to your symptoms. Chinese Medicine looks at the body as an interconnected system, and often the clues to healing come from details that may seem unrelated.

After your evaluation, I'll explain my findings using Chinese Medicine principles in an easy-to-understand way. My goal is never to overwhelm you with complicated terminology, but to help you understand what your body is communicating and how we can work together to restore balance.

During your acupuncture treatment, you may notice sensations around the points being needled. Some people describe feelings of warmth, heaviness, tingling, movement, or gentle pressure. These sensations are completely normal and should not be uncomfortable.

The magic happens when we allow ourselves to relax. As your nervous system settles and your body enters a state of rest, your qi—your body's vital energy—can begin to flow more smoothly, supporting the healing process.

After your treatment, I encourage you to drink plenty of water, eat nourishing foods, and permit yourself to slow down for the remainder of the day. Try to avoid strenuous activity whenever possible and allow your body time to integrate the treatment.

At the end of your session, we'll meet again to discuss how you're feeling, review any recommendations, and schedule your next appointment if appropriate.

Healing is a journey, and every journey is unique. I'm grateful to be a part of yours and look forward to helping you move toward greater balance, vitality, and well-being.

I can't wait to meet you.

Dr. Lora Sierra, AP, DOM

Awesome Qi

Where Energy Meets Harmony