We do realize that most people unfortunately don’t try acupuncture because they have a fear of needles, likely due to the memory of previous childhood vaccinations. Acupuncture needles are tiny in comparison being only a few hair widths in diameter. Our acupuncturist had a fear of needles as well until she discovered the health benefits that acupuncture gave her. She uses a gentle technique and checks often to make sure you are comfortable.
If you were able to tolerate a tattoo, even a small one, you will tolerate acupuncture. At Hoku we’ve discovered over the years that most people’s fears are based in the unknown, and once we insert a few needles, the fear is gone. Acupuncture needles are so very small that you will only feel a sensation for about a second, and then it goes quickly goes away. Even if you don’t have a tattoo, most people can easily tolerate the sensation, and then really relax into the experience and even fall asleep.