Group acupuncture setup at The Acupuncture Lounge located in TAOU Studio in Carytown.

For many, access to acupuncture treatments are limited by time and financial constraints. The group-treatment model at The Acupuncture Lounge in Carytown aims to change that dynamic.

In many cities, Richmond included, there are barriers to receiving regular acupuncture treatments. These barriers include:

High treatment costs
Low appointment availability & long waitlists
Lack of consistent community acupuncture
Limited appointment hours

When we began offering group acupuncture treatments at TAOU Studio (and in partnership with Vitality Float Spa) in November of 2022, our mission was simple: To make acupuncture more accessible, in every way possible. We are only in the beginning stages of making this dream a reality and have big plans in the works, stay tuned for more to come. In the meantime, we hope you are able to visit us at The Acupuncture Lounge or one of our community acupuncture events around town.

How group acupuncture works:

1. Sign up through our online booking system or contact Elizabeth directly to book an appointment.

2. A thorough health history is filled out online prior to your first appointment. The acupuncturist will discreetly review your concerns prior to treatment. If there is any hesitation about discussing health history in the shared space, you can always book a complimentary consultation prior to your first appointment.

3. Arrive for your appointment 5-10 minutes early wearing loose-fitting clothing. You will want to make sure pants can roll above the knees and sleeves can roll above the elbows.

TAOU Studio is located at 3122 W Cary St #220, Richmond, VA 23221 in the upstairs suites between Can Can and Paper Source. (Unfortunately at this time there is no elevator, this is something we are working to address.)

4. Check in at the front desk and you will be shown to your table. Remove shoes and socks and make yourself comfortable on the table.

5. The acupuncturist will check in by briefly reviewing your health history, checking tongue and pulse (a standard diagnostic practice in traditional Chinese medicine), and answering any follow up questions.

6. Acupuncture needles are then placed at specific points to harmonize and balance energy within the body. You may feel a sensation as the needles are placed, however it is important to let the acupuncturist know if any of the points are causing discomfort.

7. Once needles are placed you are left to rest on the table for 30-35 minutes. During this time many simply fall asleep, while others report being “somewhere between awake and asleep” — either way, it should feel safe, comfortable, and relaxed.

8. The needles are then removed and the acupuncturist will check back in, answering any questions about the treatment and providing instructions on the best timeline for follow up treatment.

Still curious if group acupuncture is a good fit? Here are 4 reasons to give it a try:

1. Group acupuncture is less expensive

In Richmond, the cost of a private acupuncture treatments run between $85-$115, with initial appointments costing between $120-$200. While this price point is necessary for most acupuncturists to maintain their practice and best serve their community, it is unfortunately out of reach for many who would most benefit from receiving treatments. The Acupuncture Lounge provides a level of care similar to private acupuncture for $65 per treatment. How? The group setting allows us to reduce overhead costs and treat more people in a shorter amount of time, without sacrificing quality.

2. The space is optimized for rest and relaxation

We believe true rest is required for healing, which is why we have prioritized comfort and privacy in the Lounge. Unlike other community acupuncture spaces where gravity chair are used for treatment, our treatments are performed on a heated massage table complete with pillows, soft sheets, and TDP heat lamps for the feet. Screens are placed between each table so you can enjoy your treatment in a more private environment. We have sound machines, peaceful music, and low-light to reduce distractions, and the use of headphones is also welcome as a way to enhance the overall experience.

3. In-and-out in just 45 minutes

Your schedule is important to us! Our goal is to keep wait times minimal and appointments efficient. We have found 40-minutes to be the ideal amount of time to rest on the table, leaving you relaxed without feeling drowsy.

4. Weekly treatments mean consistency and faster healing

Acupuncture treatments build on each other, growing in effectiveness treatment by treatment, with a cumulative effect. For this reason, consistency is key. We are committed to offering group sessions weekly (and long-term we plan to expand into 3+ days per week) to help you stay consistent in your treatments and heal faster.

Ready to sign up? Follow this link to book your appointment at The Acupuncture Lounge.

January 2023

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Elizabeth Fuqua, L.Ac.

Elizabeth Fuqua is a licensed acupuncturist in Richmond, Virginia. Her scope of expertise includes chronic and acute pain management, digestive disorders, fertility support including pregnancy and infertility, stress management, and support with sleep issues.