He then tested me for food allergies with a device that he developed and it was crazy how accurate it was (already knowing most of my food allergies). He had about 8 Pashminas (different colors) and told me to take off everything except my bra and underwear and pull a Pashmina over me (It's interesting that each time I go, I pick the color according to my mood). He took my pulse reading on both wrists and then we worked on breathing which I never realized is SO important. MOST women hold a lot of stress and tension in their upper chest and stomachs (therefore causing indigestion, constipation, etc).
He insisted that I train myself to inhale and extend my tummy out as far as possible (something none of us really want to see) and then out again. I did this for about 5 minutes and I was amazed at how much more relaxed I was. Breathing out of your chest is a NO NO so stop doing it now!!
He then put the needles in my ankles, arms, stomach and head. It doesn't really hurt, some you don't even feel going in, some areas are more sensitive (like ankles) but it's not bad AT all! Through the treatment he continued to talk to me a little and I have to tell you, I have never met someone who was so completely insightful and in-tuned to me in only a few short minutes. After, I walked out of the clinic completely calm and relaxed and had one of the best dreams of my life that night. I have continued going weekly and each time I look forward to going back. I don't know if it's the needles or Hugh, but he is an amazing person without a selfish bone in his body. He is there completely for you and allows you to be okay to let go for an hour and talk about you and your life. He also makes you feel comfortable through the whole process, there's no awkwardness about sitting there in your bra! If you see him, ask him to tell you the story of his father who was a top doctor in London and very anti anything holistic and especially acupuncture. Once his dad was in pain for something and nothing was helping him. For the first time in Hugh's career, his father allowed Hugh to treat him twice and he was completely out of pain. It was then that he looked at his son with the utmost respect for what he does (much better when Hugh tells the story).
I would suggest if you are seeing Hugh for stress or sleep issues that you go in the evening. For other issues such as body aches (heard it works wonders for migraines), infertility, etc. you can go at any time.
