I’m afraid of needles. This is the most common reason people tell me they don’t try acupuncture. Think about that for a minute.
It’s not that they don’t think it works, or that it wont help them. They choose to live with their current problem than risk an acupuncture needle.
And do you know what I say?
You are absolutely right! Of course you are afraid, what sane person isn’t afraid of sharp pointy objects. From when you were a baby when doctors where stabbing you with injections, to your mother warning you about the risks of running with scissors. We are well indoctrinated to be fearful of sharp objects and the people who wield them.
They look a little confused when I say this. I can imagine the wheels turning, maybe one brave soul will ask the question out loud. So if you agree with me, why do you want to poke me?
Ah Ha, I am glad you asked.
You see, acupuncture is not like those other things. Yes it uses sharp pointy things, but in a good way.
For starters, it doesn’t hurt. I know you may find that hard to believe, but the needles are designed to minimize any discomfort.
We have many different types of nerves and the majority of them live in the outer layer of the skin. This is so you can pick up a pen (pressure sensor) and know it is different from an icicle (temperature sensor) or a knife (pain sensor). The acupuncture needle is very thin, so thin it needs a guide tube to penetrate the skin. When done correctly it activates the pressure sensor but not the pain sensor. So yes, it really doesn’t hurt, at least not when I do it because I am a trained professional. This is what I do all day, and I am very very good at it.
Secondly, acupuncture releases endorphins. You know, those happy molecules associated with running (I knew there was a reason people liked to run) and sex and chocolate (ah yes, much more my speed).
Not only does it not hurt, acupuncture makes you feel good. I’ve had people giggle uncontrollably on the table but most fall asleep. Or as one client put it “I know I slept because I heard myself snoring”
If you are someone who is considering acupuncture but are afraid of needles I urge you to talk to me. I will help you through it. Let me be your support person through this fear. Who knows maybe afterwards you will be so renewed you will take a parachute jump despite your acrophobia.
