Today we’d like to introduce you to Nena Watkins.
Nena, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My early childhood was filled with medical issues. I was born with two brain tumors, which required surgeries to remove and subsequent treatments and surgeries to save my eye. Throughout my childhood, I had regular headaches and vision trouble that were not helped by doctors. As I grew up, I realized the problem was not that I had bad doctors, but that the system of medicine was not helpful. Of course, western medicine was fantastic at removing the tumors and saving my life, but offered very little for the subsequent issues with which I lived.
While in college, I worked briefly in medical research. I saw how much animal testing is done to create pharmaceutical medicines that cause many side effects in humans. Since 80% of pharmaceutical drugs are based on plants found in nature, I saw the absurdity of trying to recreate what already exists and I began to value the simplicity of herbal medicine. After finishing my chemistry degree, at The University of Texas, in Austin, I rushed into acupuncture school at Bastyr University where I could learn the healing properties of plants, and the physics of the living body, practiced as acupuncture and Chinese herbs
Personally, the principles and treatments of Chinese medicine have helped me greatly. I feel better as I age because I no longer have headaches or the same vision problems I had growing up. The longer I use this medicine, the better it works. After many years in practice, I have seen this medicine benefit others as well, From treating life-long issues to managing age related health problems in the future, Chinese Medicine helps people feel better.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think a big challenge to helping people, is getting them the correct information about acupuncture and Chinese herbs. There is much competition by imitators. I have known chiropractors who sell supplements that are expensive and not specific for health issues, as well as chiropractors and physical therapists who do dry needling. Dry needling is a weekend acupuncture training class, while Licensed Acupuncturists attend a four year medical program, pass 5 National Board exams, and get licensed through the Texas Medical Board. Basically, many people confuse chiropractors and acupuncturists or they confuse actual herbal medicine with nutritional supplements. It is a struggle to effectively educate people about Chinese medicine when other practitioners are misguiding them.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Oak Cliff Acupuncture clinic is a safe space to relax and heal. I treat all non-emergency issues. Many referrals are for facial paralysis (Bell’s Palsey), and many returns are to help with allergies and pain (neck, head, shoulder, wrist, knee, sciatic). I also have many people who have benefited from acupuncture and herbs for colds, sinus infections, and cough. I practice both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Classical Five Element Tradition. Oak Cliff Acupuncture clinic is located in the Bishop Arts neighborhood of North Oak Cliff., Dallas, TX. In addition to acupuncture and Chinese Herbs, I offer massage for 15 minutes or 30 minutes, I offer cupping, and facial acupuncture. Oak Cliff Acupuncture is a great place to feel better.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
If someone’s work inspires you, study it. Spend time with them, ask questions, enjoy learning from them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.OakCliffAcu.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oakcliffacupuncture/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Oakcliffacu
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/oak-cliff-acupuncture-dallas
