We had the good fortune of connecting with Sonal Patel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sonal, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
There are many things that the general public are unaware of when it comes to acupuncture. The most common question I am asked is “do the needles hurt? They do not! Acupuncture needles are made from stainless steel and are almost hair-like thin. Once inserted, you really do not feel anything at all. The second most common question is “what does acupuncture treat?” As a licensed acupuncturist (LAc), we can treat most conditions and this is because we get most of the information we need by looking at your tongue and feeling your pulse. Basically, this means that five people may come in for stress but each one will have a completely different treatment plan. Thirdly, many of my clients are shocked when I tell them that my graduate training was four years long. A Masters in Traditional Chinese Medicine in the US is anywhere from 3-4 years and full-time! We are required to complete 2000 clinical hours and study other branches besides acupuncture such as herbology, tuina massage, energetics (taijiquan & qigong) and Chinese dietary medicine.

Other interesting facts: There are over 300 acupuncture points on the body and each one has its own function. The WHO recognizes acupuncture as a treatment for healing over 200 symptoms and health conditions. President Nixon helped popularize acupuncture in the 1970’s. AND you do not have to have any health concerns to receive acupuncture as it is great for preventative care.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work. What sets you apart from others? What are you most proud of or excited about?
Sessions at Renew are not just about acupuncture. I also offer bio-individual nutrition, healthy lifestyle choices, and mind-body practices. There is always enough time for my clients to discuss questions they may have and to make them feel comfortable for trusting me with their health and well-being. During my graduate studies I completed internships and externships in a veteran’s clinic, an inpatient/outpatient addiction clinic, a peer-run center focused on personal growth and a women’s health clinic. Internationally, I volunteered with Barefoot Acupuncturists in Mumbai and studied with ECAN International School of Acupuncture in Goa. I was very fortunate for these opportunities as they have had a huge impact on how I work with my clients. More recently, I have completed a certification course in Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture and am currently working on my second! I am excited about this because it provides an effective, natural, and safe way to reduce the signs of aging.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Houston has so much to offer! What I love about this city is the diversity and all that comes with it such as the art scene, multi-cultural eateries and the live music. There is definitely something for everyone. I enjoy nature so weather permitting a walk in Memorial Park or the Arboretum is a must. Art at the Museum of Fine Arts, the Menil or Contemporary Arts Museum. Sound healing meditation at Buffalo Bayou Cistern is very tranquil. Live music at the Continental or a show at the House of Blues is a lot of fun! Mary’z Mediterranean, Kiran’s for Indian food, Oporto for Tapas and Wine, Uchi or Soto for sushi, EQ Heights coffeehouse, Agora Coffeehouse and a plethora of places for tacos!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are several individuals that have contributed to where I am today. My gifted teachers and peers from Five Branches University gave me the foundation and mentorship that I needed during my training. Love and support from my parents and close friends who have been my personal cheering squad along this journey! Lastly, my clientele. Many of whom have touched my own life with their stories of healing. My business is where it is today because of their trust and faith in Chinese Medicine.

Website: https://www.renewwithacupuncture.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renewacupuncturehtx/

Other: https://nextdoor.com/pages/renew-acupuncture-houston-tx/

Image Credits
Profile Photo is from: Claire Thom Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.