Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years and is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It has stood the test of time because it offers numerous advantages, especially for people dealing with chronic pain and stress, fertility issues, or those seeking a holistic approach to overall health improvement.
But did you know preparing for your acupuncture appointment is crucial to maximizing the benefits of acupuncture? If you’re new to this healing modality or simply looking to ensure an enjoyable acupuncture experience, understanding what not to do before your acupuncture session is just as important as knowing what to do.
We’ll go through a list of important things not to do before acupuncture, providing you with practical tips to ensure an effective acupuncture session and a smooth, comfortable experience.
What Shouldn’t You Do Before Acupuncture Treatments?
You might be wondering, “How do I prepare myself for acupuncture?” or “How do I get the best results from acupuncture?” What many first-time acupuncture clients don’t realize is that simple lifestyle choices made right before an acupuncture visit can impact how they feel during and even after their session.
Here’s a list of things to avoid to prepare properly and ensure a productive acupuncture session.
1. Don’t Skip Meals or Eat Heavy Meals
You may be wondering, “Should I eat before or after acupuncture?” This is one of the most common questions people have before their treatment, and the answer lies somewhere in the middle. One of the most common mistakes people make is showing up to their acupuncture appointment either on an empty stomach or after a very heavy meal.
- Avoid heavy meals: A large meal right before your acupuncture treatment can leave you feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and even nauseous. This discomfort might distract from the benefits of acupuncture and make it harder for your body to relax.
- Eat a light meal: Instead, aim for a light meal about 1-2 hours before your session. This will keep your blood flow steady and ensure you won’t feel lightheaded during the acupuncture therapy.
Quick Tip: If you’re unsure what not to eat after acupuncture, stick to light, nutritious foods that are easy on the stomach, such as steamed vegetables, broth-based soups, lean proteins like chicken or fish, whole grains, and fresh fruit. These options help support your body’s healing process without overloading your digestive system.
2. Avoid Stimulants and Alcohol
Acupuncture professionals recommend avoiding stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, and energy drinks before your session. These substances can interfere with your body’s natural processes, as well as the effects of acupuncture.
- Why avoid caffeine? Caffeine, in particular, increases heart rate and can make it harder for your body to relax during the treatment. Since relaxation is a big part of a successful acupuncture session, it’s best to skip that cup of coffee beforehand. Studies have shown it can even inhibit certain effects of acupuncture.
- Why not alcohol? Alcohol can numb your senses, which might dull your awareness of how the acupuncture needles are affecting you. It’s important to remain in tune with your body during your acupuncture therapy.
Stick to water before your appointment, as hydration supports better blood flow and circulation during the session, but don’t go overboard (you’ll learn why in a minute).
3. Don’t Overexert Yourself Physically
Heavy workouts or intense physical activity on the day of the acupuncture appointment can tire out your body. You may think, “Exercise helps reduce stress, so why not?” But over-exercising can deplete your energy, making it harder for your body to respond to the treatment.
- Gentle exercise is fine: Light stretching or a gentle walk is great for stress management and promoting healthy blood flow. However, avoid anything that leaves you feeling exhausted before your acupuncture visit.
- Rest is key: Giving your body a chance to reset before the actual acupuncture treatment will enhance its effectiveness.
4. Don’t Forget to Share Your Current Medications / Medical History
In general, acupuncture is safe for most people, but it’s crucial to share your current medications and any health conditions with your acupuncture practitioner. Why does this matter?
Your certified acupuncture practitioner needs to know about your current conditions and if you’re on any medication that might affect clotting, healing, or your nervous system. This insight into your health history ensures a safer, personalized acupuncture treatment plan and helps avoid any unwanted acupuncture side effects.
There are no one-size-fits-all approaches when it comes to acupuncture. That’s why Dr. Mitra takes this a step further and collaborates with other medical specialists to tailor custom treatment plans and provide integrative care for each patient in our Beverly Hills Acupuncture Health Clinic.
When Is Acupuncture NOT Safe?
Certain conditions should be approached with caution and discussed with professionals to ensure you are a fitting candidate for acupuncture and tailor your treatment accordingly, such as:
- Bleeding Disorders or Blood-Thinning Medications: Individuals with clotting issues or those taking anticoagulants (like warfarin) may be at higher risk for excessive bleeding or bruising from acupuncture needles.
- Serious Skin Infections or Open Wounds: In case of active skin infections, rashes, or open wounds at the intended acupuncture sites, treatment should be postponed to avoid further complications.
- Pacemaker or Other Implanted Electrical Devices: Some acupuncture techniques, such as electroacupuncture, use electrical stimulation, which can interfere with the functioning of pacemakers or other implanted devices. Always inform your practitioner if you have any medical implants.
- Allergies to Metals: Some acupuncture needles contain trace amounts of metals like nickel or stainless steel. If you have a known allergy to certain metals, it’s important to inform your practitioner to avoid potential allergic reactions during treatment. Hypoallergenic needles can often be used as an alternative.
5. Avoid Brushing Your Tongue Before the Session
One thing you probably haven’t thought about but made our “things not to do before acupuncture” list: brushing your tongue. Why not brush the tongue before acupuncture? Strange as it may sound, acupuncturists often examine the color, shape, and coating of your tongue as part of your diagnosis.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the tongue actually provides valuable insights into your overall health and energy balance. Brushing it before your session can wipe away this diagnostic information, potentially leading to less accurate treatment.
6. Don’t Arrive in a Rush or Stressed
Arriving at the acupuncture clinic in a calm, centered state will allow you to fully embrace the healing potential of the session (unless you’re there to find relief with acupuncture for stress, in which case, we’ve got you covered). If you’re rushing, your nervous system is already in a heightened state of alert, which could counteract the calming effects of the treatment.
Your emotional and mental state before a session can greatly impact the outcome and can make it difficult for your body to fully relax and absorb all the acupuncture health benefits. A relaxed mind helps your body respond more effectively to the acupuncture treatment, resulting in a more enjoyable and fruitful experience.
How Do I Prepare Myself for Acupuncture? The Dos Before Acupuncture
By following a few simple “dos” that mostly revolve around avoiding the things not to do before acupuncture that we’ve discussed, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother and more enjoyable experience. So, here’s a quick recap:
- Eat a Light Meal: Have a small, balanced meal 1-2 hours before your appointment to keep your energy levels steady and avoid feeling lightheaded.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water moderately before your session to promote healthy blood flow and help your body respond better to the treatment.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing makes it easier for your practitioner to access various acupuncture points during the session and will make you more relaxed than tight clothing.
- Arrive Early & Relax: Give yourself enough time to arrive at the clinic without stress, allowing you to settle in and calm your mind before the treatment. Engage in calming activities like deep breathing, meditation, or light stretching before your appointment to help quiet your mind.
What Time of Day Is Best for Acupuncture?
Although the time of day doesn’t directly impact the treatment, ideally, choose a time when you can relax afterward and avoid jumping straight back into work or other stressors. A 2014 study did find stronger neural activation in the AM compared to PM among subject groups for one specific acupoint (ST36); however, more studies are needed to explore the effects of timing.
Dos and Don’ts After an Acupuncture Session
While this blog is focused on what not to do before your session, it’s equally important to follow some aftercare tips to maximize the acupuncture benefits.
- What Not to Eat After Acupuncture: Avoid greasy, processed foods that can disrupt digestion and energy flow. Stick to whole, nourishing foods that help your body recover and balance its energy.
- Don’t Shower Right After Acupuncture: Why can’t you shower after acupuncture? While there’s no strict rule against it, many acupuncture professionals advise waiting for a few hours before showering. This allows your body to fully integrate the effects of acupuncture without being interrupted by sudden temperature changes or water pressure.
- Go to the Bathroom: The treatment stimulates your body’s natural detox processes, so it’s normal to feel the need to urinate more frequently. Showering can interfere with these processes as your body continues to release toxins.
Make the Most Out of Each Acupuncture Session
Preparing properly for your acupuncture visit is essential to ensure you get the most out of your treatments. By keeping this list of things not to do before acupuncture in mind, you’re setting yourself up for an enjoyable and effective healing experience.
Whether you’re managing chronic pain or stress or simply seeking relaxation and balance through Traditional Chinese Medicine and different types of acupuncture treatment, these tips will help you make the most out of the numerous benefits it has to offer.
Feel ready to book your session with an experienced certified acupuncture practitioner? Dr. Mitra would be glad to see you. Whether you’re ready to schedule or still have some questions on your mind, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you feel fully confident and ready to take the first step toward a more balanced and healthier you.
