What are you listening to lately?
I love the Rich Roll podcast. It’s one of my favorite health and wellness podcasts.
If you head into the city for fun, what would you do there?
If I head into the city for fun, I’d probably start with a plant-based restaurant—I love trying new places with fresh, creative dishes. But if I’m spending time with my daughter, we’d likely go somewhere more family-focused, like the zoo, a museum, or the Natural History Museum. It’s always a great way to learn something new together, have fun, and create lasting memories.
For someone who’s never tried acupuncture, what’s the one thing you’d say to ease their fears before their first session?
I’d tell them that acupuncture should be a very gentle and relaxing experience. The needles are super thin, hair thin actually, and some people barely feel them. It’s normal to feel a sense of calm or relief during the session, and I’ll guide them through the process every step of the way to make sure they feel comfortable.
What’s your go-to lunch?
My go-to lunch is typically a plant-based meal, as I’m vegetarian. In line with Chinese medicine, I prefer warm, cooked foods because they support digestion. The digestive system thrives on warmth, as it helps break down nutrients more efficiently, making them easier for the body to absorb. A warm vegetable dish with grains or a nourishing soup is usually what I reach for.
How do you incorporate the principles of acupuncture and herbalism into your own daily routine?
I approach my daily routine through the lens of balance, which is central to Chinese medicine. In today’s world, we often get caught up in an all-or-nothing mindset, but I believe much of life is out of our control. So, I focus on managing the aspects I can—nourishing my body with wholesome foods, staying active, getting enough sunlight, spending time in nature, and connecting with loved ones.
These practices are the best medicine I know for maintaining health and focus. And, of course, a little acupuncture always helps keep me aligned and centered.
What’s your favorite way to stay active?
I love distance running. Hours spent running helps clear my head and makes me a better mom, acupuncturist, and all around human.