Before your visit

• Wear comfortable clothing, that can be rolled up to the elbows and knees.
• Please don’t wear perfumes or aftershaves.
• Try to avoid being either hungry or very full when you come for treatment.
• It is best to avoid caffeine or other stimulants at least two hours before you have acupuncture.
• If you easily feel cold, please bring an extra layer, or a light blanket.
• Some people like to bring earplugs or an ipod.

During your visit

• If it is your first visit, please arrive early to fill out the intake form. You’ll have a short discussion with the acupuncturist, who will look at your tongue, feel your pulse, and suggest a treatment plan.
• If you are a returning patient, we ask that you schedule your next appointment(s) and leave your payment as you arrive. Most people find this easier than doing it after their treatment, and it helps the clinic to flow smoothly.
• Bring all your belongings with you and have a seat at any available table or recliner. Please remove your shoes and socks for the treatment.
• Being relaxed during your treatment will enhance its effectiveness, so breathe deeply and get ready to take a break.
• Most acupuncture treatments last for 45-60 minutes. During this time, we will ask a few questions, put the needles in, and come back to take them out when you are ready. If you need to leave by a certain time, please tell us.

After your visit

You are likely to feel more relaxed. You may feel sleepy, or you may have more energy than when you came in. Either way, it is best not to stimulate the body (e.g. with caffeine, alcohol, or vigorous activity) after acupuncture.

Clinic Policies

Maintaining a quiet, healing space
The RCAC is a community space: we speak in whispers, and as little as possible. If you would like to speak to your practitioner at length, you will need to schedule this at another time, perhaps by telephone. Please turn off cellphones before you come in.

Common sense responsibility
Please let us know if you may be pregnant, are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or taking blood-thinners, as these conditions require specific modifications or extra caution.

Lateness and cancellations
If you are late for your appointment, that time slot will be released. You are still welcome to come in that day and we will see you as soon as a space becomes available.

Please give us 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, so that we may open the space for someone else. If you do not show up at the time you have scheduled, you will be asked to pay $20 for your missed appointment.