Community acupuncturists work on a sliding scale; it’s a practical solution to address the high cost of private treatments. It is rooted in a value system… that people who need to think about how they spend their money and have little disposable income should be able to get acupuncture, if they want it. Often, if they need it.

So… are the people with less money settling for something less than is offered by private acupuncturists?

There’s less talking, sure. Less privacy. There is no private room with a closed door. There is no lying down. There is less talking.

But do private treatments make for better health care? Is it nourishing to the body and spirit? For some, the solitude and increased personal attention feels good. They’ve got the time. They may have the money to treat themselves. That’s great. We’re here for the other people, the ones who would rather get the acupuncture and get on with their lives.

In community acupuncture, there is a sense of  belonging. A feeling of connection with other people being treated. They’re not talking to you; you’re not talking to them… you are all there to take care of yourselves and to relax in a peaceful environment. It’s just a feeling. There’s a nice, palpable energy of goodwill and belonging here at Beach Community Acupuncture, and at similar clinics.

It’s called community acupuncture for a reason. It’s not just acupuncture in the same space as others; it’s acupuncture in a community.

Please see for yourself. Find a community clinic near you (check http://communityacupuncturenetwork.org) and give it a try. If you live in the San Diego area, come see us. We’re in OB, at the coner of Niagara and Bacon, above the Blue Parrot.