Today we’d like to introduce you to Shin-Di Lai.
Shin-Di, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
When I was 16 years old, I tore my ACL and had to have reconstructive surgery. This knee injury led me to have 5 knee surgeries by the age of 21. Every step of the way, I had the athletic trainer for my school team help nurture and rehabilitate my knee. This is what initially led me to be interested in the medical field. In college, I majored in Kinesiology, focusing on Exercise Science from CSUN. I was fascinated with the way the body moved and how the body functioned. While attending CSUN, I concurrently enrolled in a surgical technology vocational program and worked as a surgical technologist during college. After, college, I had initially though about going into Physical Therapy. However, after managing a physical therapy clinic for 3 years, I realized that it was not the profession for me. While I know physical therapists help so many people, it wasn’t quite the way I wanted to help people. I had always believed in the natural and holistic way of healing. I believe that mind, body, spirit are one and influence each other. I wanted to find a way where I could help mentally, emotionally, physically. That’s where Traditional Chinese Medicine came in. Traditional Chinese medicine gives me the modality to engage and help people naturally and holistically. I completed my four years Masters of Arts in Traditional Chinese Medicine at Yo San University in Los Angeles, CA. I am a licensed Acupuncturist and nationally certified through the NCCAOM.
While I work with all ailments such as endocrine disorders, pain, general wellness and prevention, I also specialize in Reproductive Medicine working with men and women. I help clients conceive naturally or concurrently with Assisted Reproductive Technology such as timed intercourse, IUI, IVF, etc. I worked alongside reproductive endocrinologists in treating clients dealing with infertility. My mother has been a registered nurse for 37 years and has worked in the labor and delivery unit and now the NICU. Having been exposed to her work early on sparked my interest in reproduction. I was also exposed to Chinese medicinal herbs at a young age through my grandmother. I utilize ancient healing and wisdom mixed with current new technology to help clients be successful in taking control of their health.
I now am also enrolled in a nursing program at Pierce College and Cal. State University, Dominguez Hills for my second Bachelor’s in Nursing. My goal is to become Nurse Practitioner certified and combine both Eastern and Western medicine to help clients.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has been relatively smooth. However, being in school for so many years and starting a business requires a lot of patience, determination and perseverance. Having a work life balance and committing to self-care is important. My journey and its ups and downs are life lessons that I welcome. I can finally say I see the light at the end of the tunnel! Woot Woot!
Please tell us about Shin-Di Lai Acupuncture.
My business is a Traditional Chinese Medicine practice. I utilize acupuncture, cupping, moxa, Chinese herbs, diet/nutrition and lifestyle recommendations to come up with the best and most realistic plan for each individual.
An initial consultation is 2 hours long. We go over a detailed health history touching on all the organ systems, diet and lifestyle habits. We then go over a treatment plan that is tailored for each individual that is realistic and goal-oriented.
I specialize in Reproductive medicine, pain, endocrine disorders and general wellness and prevention. My philosophy is that we shouldn’t wait until we have big and obvious problems before we get help. We all have daily stress that can be initial triggers and lead to bigger problems. Prevention can play a huge role in maintaining optimal health and Traditional Chinese Medicine is amazing prevention medicine.
I am known for helping individuals and couples work on building families of their own. I am also known for cupping. I also like to get to know my clients individually so I have a good understanding of who they are, which ultimately help me facilitate their own healing process.
I am very proud of how the company has developed. I started with renting rooms in other offices to having my own clinic space now. I am proud that I have Western medicine resources and knowledge to better understand client’s medical ailments and treatments but use Chinese Medicine to help clients. I think that having a strong basis in both Eastern Medicine and Western Medicine sets me apart from others. I have the ability to utilize both medicines if necessary to optimize clients’ health.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite memories from childhood are all the family trips we took. My parents were awesome in taking me to about 47 of the 50 states in the U.S. They took me back Taiwan to spend time with our family and stay connected to Taiwanese culture. I visited many countries with my family as well. I have learned and continue to learn so much about different cultures through visiting different countries.
Pricing:
- Initial consultation is $150-$175; Return visits are $95, Cupping $50-$75. Herbs and supplement prices vary.
Contact Info:
- Address: 16200 Ventura Blvd.
Suite 227
Encino, CA 91436 - Website: www.shindilai.com
- Phone: 818-905-7255
- Email: [email protected]
- Facebook: Shin-Di Lai Acupuncture
- Yelp: Shin-Di Lai Acupuncture
Image Credit:
S. Bergenfeld
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