Today we’d like to introduce you to Sonal Patel.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am a healer – an empath, and this awareness came to light during my time in Central Coast California. In the woods and on the beach is where I spent most of my days off – hiking, walking, meditating, contemplating, and reading. Nature became my spiritual grounds, and this transformed my life into who I am today and set me on a path towards wellness: physically, mentally, and spiritually.
During this journey, I stumbled upon Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) the way many Acupuncturists do – as a patient. I began to experience unusual symptoms related to my thyroid and decided to try Chinese Medicine at the recommendation of a co-worker. After a few treatments, many of the symptoms began to resolve, and with the addition of herbal therapy and nutritional changes, I was hooked!
At the time, I was working as a Respiratory Therapist in a hospital but had been contemplating making a career change to something more holistic. I had spent a few years researching many different careers, from psychology to Ayurvedic medicine. But, my personal experience sealed the decision to pursue a Master’s in TCM. This medicine is powerful, and I wanted to share it with those who struggle with the side effects of conventional medicine or those who are just seeking a more natural way of healing.
It is interesting because my first profession brought me to California, and almost nine years later, I left with all the excitement and nervousness of a new profession – Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I love what I do and am passionate about Chinese Medicine, but it most definitely has not been a smooth road! After graduating with my Master’s in 2015, I moved to Denver and worked part-time as a Respiratory Therapist and part-time as a Licensed Acupuncturist.
Colorado was where I wanted to live, but with one foot in western medicine and the other in eastern medicine, juggling both professions became difficult. After two years of working this way, I accepted a full-time position in Houston. However, a few days after arriving, I learned there was no longer a need for me, and this spiraled into starting my own business.
Starting my own business was something that had never crossed my mind, but the Universe has guided me forward in this direction and placed very special people on my path tomake it possible. After treating patients in temporary spaces for three years, it feels great to welcome clients into my own office space in Uptown, where I have been practicing now for a year.
Running my own business has been very rewarding, but certainly not easy! At Renew, I am the receptionist, manager, and practitioner. The greatest challenge I’ve faced in my practice, however, has been explaining that Chinese Medicine, and all natural healing modalities, for that matter, takes time to work. It is not a one-shot deal. While some may feel benefits within 2-3 weeks, others may need more time.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
The definition of renew is “to make like new.” And what I do at Renew Acupuncture is guide people to a healthier way of living or “being” in body, mind, and spirit using acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition, and any other lifestyle adjustments that may be needed. Sometimes, it can be a simple modification to one’s daily habits, and other times, there is more work involved.
During my training in and outside of graduate school, I completed a variety of internships and certification programs covering women’s health, orthopedics, mental wellness, drug substance addictions, and facial rejuvenation. I also took a term off to study in India with two different Acupuncturists from Belgium (Barefoot Acupuncturists) and Madrid (ECAN International School of Acupuncture). While I enjoy treating all areas, I particularly enjoy the areas of mental wellness, digestive disorders, women’s health, and facial rejuvenation.
I believe in creating a healing space where patients feel safe to openly discuss their issues and ailments, which is one of the most important steps to healing. This is why I choose to work one-on-one to deliver patient-centered care and to intuitively listen to the needs of each patient and create a sense of trust and compassion. All services are tailored to the needs of the patient and may include any of the following: acupuncture, cupping, electric stimulation, gua sha, moxibustion, and nutritional guidance.
What are your plans for the future?
My goal is to have a thriving practice where I am able to serve those who seek my help using Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. Additionally, I would like to travel abroad and volunteer with international medical non-profits as well as train with licensed acupuncturists overseas. I am truly fascinated by how this medicine is practiced around the globe and would like to integrate this knowledge in my treatments.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.renewwithacupuncture.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renewacupuncturehtx/
Image Credits
Main Picture – Albert Chen Photography
