What can you expect at your first acupuncture or reflexology appointment?

Starting something new can be daunting, especially when it involves your health. Whether you’re considering acupuncture or reflexology for the first time, it’s completely natural to feel uncertain about what to expect. But rest assured, your first session is all about you – your comfort, your story, and your goals.

At her clinic in Lincolnshire, Alison Seymour offers a calm, welcoming space where treatments are always tailored to your needs. Whether you’re seeking help for a specific condition, looking to reduce stress, or simply curious about holistic care, your first visit is the beginning of a supportive and collaborative process.

What happens at the start of your appointment?

Your first session will begin with a detailed consultation. This is an opportunity for Alison to get to know you, not just your symptoms, but your health history, sleep, digestion, energy, mood, and anything else that might be relevant.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the body is seen as an interconnected system, so even small details can provide valuable insights. Alison may also look at your tongue and feel your pulse, which are traditional diagnostic tools used to understand internal imbalances.

This initial conversation is gentle, non-judgemental, and entirely focused on listening.

“The first session is about building trust, understanding your story, and creating a treatment plan that supports the whole of you.”

Alison Seymour, acupuncturist and reflexologist, Lincolnshire

If you’re having acupuncture

After the consultation, you’ll lie comfortably on a treatment couch. Alison will insert very fine, single-use sterile needles at specific points on your body, depending on your unique diagnosis.

Most people find acupuncture very relaxing, many even drift off during the session. You may feel a dull ache, tingling, or warmth at the needle sites, but discomfort is rare. The needles are usually left in place for around 20 minutes while you rest.

Alison checks in throughout to make sure you’re comfortable and fully at ease.

If you’re having reflexology

For reflexology, you’ll remain clothed apart from removing your shoes and socks. You’ll sit or lie down comfortably while Alison applies gentle pressure to points on your feet (or occasionally hands) that correspond to organs and systems in the body.

Reflexology is calming and deeply soothing, many people describe a sense of “reset” afterwards. Alison uses a combination of Duopody reflexology and, where appropriate, techniques such as NEPIP to support stress, hormone balance, and nervous system regulation.

What happens after your treatment?

After the session, Alison will share any relevant observations and offer advice if appropriate. You’ll have space to ask questions, discuss how you felt, and explore next steps if you wish to continue.

Some people feel energised after treatment, while others feel relaxed or sleepy, both are normal. Drinking water, resting, and giving yourself some space to integrate the treatment is always a good idea.

Making that first step easier

It’s perfectly fine to feel nervous before your first appointment, but most people leave feeling heard, relaxed, and relieved that they took that first step.

At her clinic in Lincoln, Alison Seymour welcomes clients of all ages and stages of health. Whether you’re looking for support with anxiety, fatigue, fertility, pain, or simply want to feel more balanced, your first session is the beginning of something positive.

To book your first appointment or find out more, get in touch here.