Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on YouTube Listen on Amazon Music\
🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:
Eileen’s Socials: Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | Facebook | Threads
Show Notes
I had the pleasure of having a special acupuncturist on the show today. Actually, I had two guests on the show today. Dr. Eileen Li is pregnant, so her baby is also part of the show, and hopefully, a TCM Rockstar in training! Eileen Li is a second-generation TCM practitioner. In this episode of the AcuPro Show, Dr. Li shares her journey, including her move from physical therapy to TCM, her social media success, and plans for maternity leave.
From Physical Therapist to Acupuncturist 🏋🏻♀️
Dr. Eileen Li didn’t start her career in TCM; she began as a physical therapist. However, her roots in Chinese medicine were planted early on by her mother, a TCM practitioner herself. Growing up with TCM as part of her upbringing, it was almost inevitable for Dr. Li to transition into this field. Her journey, however, was not straightforward. She spent years in physical therapy until she felt compelled to offer more to her patients and decided to follow in her mother’s footsteps.
“I ceilinged out after about five years as a physical therapist,” Dr. Li shared. “It felt like I could be offering something so much more.” This realization led her to apply to the only acupuncture school in Massachusetts. Despite initial uncertainties, Dr. Li eventually found her calling, with a particular passion for herbs.
Navigating Maternity Leave as a Self-Employed Acupuncturist🤰🏻
As Dr. Li balances her career and impending motherhood, she’s faced with new challenges. Self-employed and running a full-time clinic, she’s had to carefully plan her maternity leave. Dr. Li’s solution focuses on continuity of care for her patients, referring them to trusted colleagues and continuing to offer herbal medicine while she’s away.
“I like to joke that I’ve always been a mom. My patients are like my babies… I need to ensure continuity of care,” she said. Dr. Li plans to take two months off and treat her maternity leave as healing time, emphasizing the importance of self-care and reducing stress.
Social Media Acupuncturist Stardom and the TCM Community 🤩
What began as a marketing strategy during the pandemic blossomed into substantial social media fame for Dr. Li. With over a million followers on Instagram and hundreds of thousands on other platforms, she’s become a significant influencer in the TCM community. Her engaging and educational content has not just attracted patients but also media attention, boosting her visibility worldwide.
“It was super accidental,” Dr. Li admitted. “I wasn’t seeking out social media fame. I started off posting once or twice a day, and it just grew from there.”
Dr. Li’s videos on TikTok and Instagram have garnered millions of views, with posts about topics like the revival effects of DU 26 and massage techniques for better sleep becoming viral sensations. Her success lies in making TCM approachable and understandable for everyone.
“I got to see how people felt like my quick tips help them, and that’s very rewarding to me,” she said. Dr. Li also assists followers in finding local practitioners, extending her impact beyond digital tips.
Handling Trolls and Social Media Challenges 🧌
With fame comes criticism. Dr. Li has had her share of dealing with trolls and negative comments. Her strategy involves staying diplomatic and understanding that many negative comments stem from the commenter’s own experiences and insecurities.
“I think when we say hurtful things, it speaks a lot more about the person… I don’t take it personally,” Dr. Li said, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the positive feedback and the support from her community.
Dr. Li continues to be a beacon in the TCM community, balancing her practice, social media presence, and soon, motherhood. This interview is a testament to her dedication and passion for TCM and her ability to inspire others.
Disclaimer
The Acupro Show podcast and material shared through Acupro Academy is a subdivision of Natural Health Sense Incorporated. Designed solely for educational and entertainment purposes. The utilization of information from this podcast or any associated material is at the user’s discretion and risk. This content is not meant to replace the guidance of an acupuncturist. Nor Chinese medicine doctor, medical doctor, physician, or any qualified professional. It is not a substitute for proper diagnosis or treatment. Users are strongly advised not to ignore or postpone seeking medical advice for any existing medical condition with their healthcare professional. Regarding any health concerns.
Need the podcast transcript? Click here!
Thanks so much God bless you very useful information keep going
That’s her plan! 💖