In Chinese medicine, we know sleep has a significant impact on the body—especially the TCM Heart. But how do we accurately differentiate symptoms for the right diagnosis? 

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer idea of the right questions to ask your patients, helping you pinpoint diagnosis with confidence. 

You'll learn:

• The key functions of the TCM Heart
• The right questions to ask to uncover clues to help you form your diagnosis
• Common clinical deficiency + excess patterns - including symptoms, tongue and pulse

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Let’s talk about the one thing we probably learned the least in acupuncture and Chinese medicine school: Qi Gong. I’ll be honest—I didn’t love it at first. While I was totally into Tai Chi, Qi Gong felt slow and boring by comparison. But something shifted, and over time, I truly fell in love with it.

Today, I’m joined by Britta Stalling, who shares the power of Zhineng Qi Gong—a form of Qi Gong that’s changing lives globally and even used in China’s renowned medicine-less hospital. 

Key points in this podcast:

• Britta’s unexpected journey—from reluctant student to passionate Qigong facilitator
• Zhineng Qigong: a unique blend of Eastern and Western medicine developed by Dr. Pang Ming
• Inside China’s “Medicine-less Hospital,” where thousands are healed using energy therapy
• How Qigong builds community, enhances well-being, and how you can add it to complement your acupuncture practice

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Let's talk about one of my favourite topics: gynecology! It's no secret that it's a complex system, but through a TCM lens, we can better understand and support our female patients. 

In this episode, I discuss everything from women's physiology to menstrual health—and share key insights to help you help your female patients achieve balance and optimal well-being. 

This is Part 1 of my FREE Gynecology Course. Let's go!

Key takeaways:

• The growth stages of men and women and the best years to conceive
• The top organs +  meridians for fertility and essence treatments
• Menstruation & menopause—ideal ages, symptoms, and duration according to TCM
• TCM diagnosis & treatment principles for menstrual health
• The best herbal formulas for post-menses, ovulation, and premenstruation support 

🎁 My gift to you! Enroll now to access Parts 2 & 3 for FREE—covering conception, pregnancy, menopause, and more! 

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

I have something a little different for you today! My guest is an Ayurvedic Master—at least, that’s what I’m calling her. Dr. Shivani Gupta not only holds a master’s in Ayurvedic science but also earned a PhD focused entirely on turmeric; YES, on turmeric! 

In this episode, we discuss the fascinating connections between Ayurveda and Chinese Medicine, the powerful benefits of turmeric, and so much more. This conversation was so much fun, and I know you’ll enjoy it while learning right along with me! 

Here's what's waiting for you:

• Dr. Shivani Gupta’s Healing Journey – From chronic illnesses and antibiotic overuse to discovering Ayurveda and earning a PhD focused on turmeric.
• Ayurveda & Chinese Medicine Parallels – Doshas, The Five Elements, Agni, Qi and Prana.
• Optimizing Digestion & Inflammation – Hot beverages support digestion, while turmeric reduces inflammation, joint pain, and gut issues.
• Ayurvedic Health Principles – True wellness comes from balancing body and spirit through food, environment, and mindful consumption.

🎁 Dr. Shivani’s Gifts for You! Claim your FREE Inflammation E-Cookbook + get 15% OFF your first order of her premium supplements and tea!

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Did you know that over 30% of adults in North America experience anger regularly, with most people reporting feeling it about 14 times per week?

In Five Element Theory, anger is connected to the Wood Element and the Liver—but how does this manifest in the body and mind?

In this episode, I discuss the Chinese medicine perspective on anger, exploring its full spectrum—from impatience and frustration to irritability, anger, and even extreme rage.

What's waiting for you in this episode:

• Symptoms and root causes of anger, frustration and Irritability
• The Chinese medicine vs. Western Medicine approach to managing anger
• Acupuncture points, Herbal formulas, and dietary recommendations for emotional balance
• Practical stress management techniques to prevent anger from taking over

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Are you ever at a loss when patients ask about vitamin D, magnesium, or iron supplements? 

As TCM practitioners, we’re experts in Chinese medicine and acupuncture, but many of us weren’t taught a deep understanding of the nutrients our patients take daily. That’s exactly why I invited back my friend and colleague, Dr. Alex Dragan!

In this episode, Alex shares her wisdom on vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, so you can better support and educate your patients. You’ll walk away with actionable insights and access to a game-changing resource that will transform your practice.

Key takeaways:

• Why vitamin D deficiency is so common and how it impacts overall health 
• The different forms of magnesium and how to choose the right one for your patients’ needs 
• The real signs of iron deficiency and why it’s often overlooked 
• Why B12 deficiency can sneak up on anyone (even meat-eaters!)
• The #1 mistake your patients make when buying supplements—and how to steer them right
• Dr. Alex’s NEW Online Course: covering Vitamins & Nutrients, Gut Health, and Female Reproductive Health—plus earn CEUs!

🎟️ Secure Your Spot in Dr. Alex's Online Course Now!

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

In Chinese medicine, we know stress has a significant impact on the body—especially the TCM Liver. But how do we accurately differentiate symptoms for the right diagnosis? 

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer idea of the right questions to ask your patients, helping you pinpoint diagnosis with confidence. 

You'll learn:

• The key functions of the TCM Liver
• The right questions to ask to uncover clues to help you form your diagnosis
• Common clinical patterns: Liver Qi Stagnation, Yang Rising, Fire, Blood Deficiency, Yin Deficiency, Damp Heat and Wind
• The 5 Element Theory and how the Liver influences other elements

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Have you ever wished for an evidence-based masterclass, or textbook on TCM for treating menopause—something that could help you better support your patients? My guest today, Kath Berry, had the same thought…and she made them both realities.

With 30 years of experience, Kath has dedicated her career to connecting acupuncture, Chinese medicine, menopause, mental health, and evidence-based research. Today, she’s here to share all of it with you. 

What you'll learn:

• Kath’s journey in Chinese medicine—famous connections, global adventures, and personal health challenges
• How Chinese medicine supports menopause and its unique approach to treatment
• The powerful link between menopause and mental health
• Evidence-based research and acupuncture treatments for menopausal symptoms, all wrapped into a masterclass made for you to benefit from
• Kath’s must-read book and why it deserves a spot on your clinic bookshelf!

🎟️ Get 25% OFF Kath’s 24 CEU/CPD/PDA Menopause Masterclass!

➡️ Visit the show notes to get your copy of Kath's book today and for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Observation is one of the biggest parts of your TCM Diagnosis. Whether you're a TCM student or a seasoned practitioner, it's always good to review your observation skills. This episode is a made-easy guide just for that. Let's make the Observation part of your diagnosis easy! 

What's waiting for you in this episode:

- The 5 body types: Earth, Wood, Fire, Metal, & Water and their characteristics

- Observation that can give you clues about your patient's Kidney Essence and overall health

- The importance of looking at your patient's face, skin, nails and eyes

-  How to examine and diagnose the tongue and its significance

✨BONUS: Get your FREE Tongue Map! 👅

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Are you a new acupuncturist navigating the challenges of your first few years in practice? Or do you feel stuck when it comes to setting clear clinic boundaries and managing patient expectations? If so, this episode is exactly what you need to start building the thriving clinic you’ve always dreamed of! 🤩

Joining me today is Kenton Sefcik. Not only is he an accomplished acupuncturist and instructor, but he loves helping his students gain the confidence, knowledge, and foundation they need to succeed as they embark on their journeys as acupuncturists. 

What's waiting for you in this episode:

• How setting clear boundaries and effective communication can improve the patient experience and build trust
• The importance of having a fair no-show policy and maintaining ongoing consent during treatments
• Why starting part-time is a great option for new practitioners and how mirroring patient energy enhances connection and treatment outcomes.
• The value of continuous learning and mentorship for building a successful TCM practice.

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Do you find yourself worrying constantly or overthinking everything? If so, you’re going to LOVE today’s episode! We’re diving into these emotions, exploring how they affect us, and—most importantly—how Chinese medicine and acupuncture can help restore balance.

Mental health challenges impact so many of us, including our patients. Let’s break down worry, overthinking, and anxiety through the lens of TCM and discover powerful ways to support emotional well-being. This is an episode you won’t want to miss. Let's go!

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• The key differences between worry, overthinking, and anxiety
• How these emotions manifest physically—and what Western medicine says about them
• The BEST acupuncture points to quiet an overactive mind
• Personal stories from my journey as an overthinker

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Today I'm bringing you a special episode of the AcuPro show, talking about one of my absolute favourite subjects: Fertility. To discuss this subject, I sat down with Mike Berkley, a well-known fertility acupuncturist in New York City.

If you're interested in fertility, you won't want to miss this conversation. We bring almost 50 years of experience combined as acupuncturists specializing in fertility.

What you'll learn:

• Understanding Fertility in Eastern and Western medicine perspectives
• The importance of diagnostics, acupuncture and herbs 
• Women's emotional wellness during the fertility process
• The essential role of addressing men’s health in fertility

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

I LOVE essential oils 😍 Did you know that specific essential oils can be paired with acupuncture points to enhance their benefits? You will love sharing this empowering tool with your patients. I promise you, the results are powerful.

After listening to this episode, you will want to add this tool to your practice and toolbox 🧰

Here's what you'll learn:

• What essential oils are, their benefits and precautions
• The top 5 essential oils and acupuncture point combos
• Essential oils and headaches, and any acute or chronic pain
• Menstruation cramps and regulating hormones with essential oils
• Digestion support with essential oils 

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Are you ready to reveal the magic of the Year of the Wood Snake? 🐍

I brought a Chinese Astrology expert, TCM Doctor, licenced acupuncturist, and my good friend, Dr. Sonia Tan, to illuminate the pathway of Chinese Astrology and guide us through the 2025 Year of the Yin Wood Snake.

Here is what you'll learn: 

• The spirit of the 2025 Yin Wood Snake year
• How the transformative energy of the Snake can help bring your dreams to fruition 
• Why you shouldn't fear the Snake and what it represents
• The 4 Pillars (aka your Chinese Birth Chart)
• How Chinese astrology can supplement your TCM treatments

➡️ Visit the show notes for the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. 

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Dysmenorrhea is a debilitating condition. Commonly known as menstruation cramps, it affects a lot of women. Today, I am breaking down painful menses and how we can transform this pain with Chinese medicine and acupuncture so you can start giving your patients relief, as soon as you're done listening to this episode.

Here's what you'll learn:

• Dysmenorrhea's potential causes, TCM patterns and symptoms
• The potential underlying causes according to TCM
• Acupuncture points, Herbal formulas, and dietary recommendations
• A personal story of how I experienced dysmenorrhea as a teenager and how Chinese medicine gave me my life back

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

After listening to the episode, your practice growth will reach new heights.

Do you want to grow your practice, but the idea of talking with other practitioners to get patient referrals scares you? 🫢

Look no further; Dr. Elie Cole is in the house and here to give you a masterclass on how we can educate, communicate, and reach MDs so you can get referrals and grow your practice. 

You do not want to skip this episode.

Here's what you'll learn:

• Fresh and innovative options you can integrate into forming professional connections that can grow your patient roster
• How to get confident explaining HOW acupuncture works to a room full of medical doctors and health care professionals
• Fool-proof methods of approach for building rapport for introverts and extroverts!
• Dr. Elie's program can set you up for success: your customizable blueprints, slide deck, handouts and one-on-one with Dr. Elie tailored specifically to your needs to help you GROW! 🌱

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Did you know that over 540 million people worldwide are living with diabetes? In the U.S. alone, this condition affects about 38 million people—11% of the population! Chances are, you’re already seeing patients with diabetes in your practice.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into diabetes and exploring how we acupuncturists and Chinese medicine practitioners, can support those living with this condition.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• A breakdown of the different types of diabetes, including the Western medicine perspective.
• Key risk factors and the potential complications of untreated diabetes.
• Effective TCM treatments: acupuncture (including auricular), essential acupuncture points, foods, and herbal formulas.
• Supplements and nutritional strategies to enhance patient care.

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Happy 2025, and happy new year to you! ✨

I hope 2025 brings you everything you wish for and so much more.

Today, I want to share what is coming in 2025 for you at Acupro Academy and recap everything 2024 and all the amazing things that happened in the past year.
If you want to know what to expect from AcuPro in 2025, you do not want to skip this episode! 💜

Key points in this episode:

• What I do each year for New Years 🌊
• How I set intentions for the year to come (and how you can, too!) 🪵
• Everything amazing that happened in 2024 at AcuPro Academy 💎
• How I'm going to continue to support you, whether you're an acupuncture student or a seasoned practitioner 🌎
• All the exciting things and collaborations I'm bringing to AcuPro in 2025🔥

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Happy Holidays, wherever you are in the world! ✨ I am so grateful for each guest I've had this year on the show💜

It has truly been an honour to share their stories and expertise with my audience. Their passion, wisdom, and dedication have inspired my listeners and me personally. They have made this year of the AcuPro Show unforgettable.

I am excited to present the most popular guest episodes of the AcuPro Show (so far!) I hope you join me in listening to some of the podcast's most powerful and educating moments. 

Key points in this episode:

• The pivotal role of the Chong Mai explained by Dr. Yvonne Farrell
• The gut's connection to the brain, overall health and ideal bowel movements with Dr. Alex Dragan
• Why Cosmetic Acupuncture is a great alternative to Botox and optimal health with Dr. Rebecca Stephens
• Educating, working and guiding thyroid health patients with Dr. Jeda Boughton
• How you can use evidence-based acupuncture research to reinforce the effectiveness and credibility of our profession with Sandro Graca

I can’t wait to bring you brand-new weekly episodes every Wednesday in the new year! 🎉

Thank you again for listening and being part of this amazing journey.
Happy New Year, and I’ll see you in 2025! 🥰

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

I am in awe of what has happened this year 💜

I started this podcast in January, and it has grown beyond my wildest dreams. Your excitement, enthusiasm, and support have made this show a success and it has truly blown me away. 

As we approach the end of 2024, I am excited to present the most popular solo episodes of the AcuPro Show (so far!) I hope you join me in listening to some of the podcast's most powerful moments. 

Key points in this episode:

• How to differentiate symptoms for TCM Diagnosis
• Learn how to approach and treat food allergies, and mental health
• All about Spleen Qi Deficiency & Liver Qi Stagnation (symptoms, causes, acupuncture, food and more!)
• How to use the 5 Elements to grow a successful practice

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Did you know that 8 out of 10 people worldwide will experience lower back pain at one point in their lives? That's 80 percent of the population! That is a staggering number. Today we are talking all about how acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help bring those people relief.

Key points in this episode:

• The risk factors and causes of lower back pain, including Western disorders
• Acute versus chronic lower back pain
• TCM treatment options and acupoint protocols for lower back pain 
• A patient story you will love (it completely changed his view on acupuncture!)

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Winter is coming, rock stars! In Chinese medicine, Winter is known as Kidney time ❄️

Do you want to better support your patients who deal with Kidney pattern issues? Well, a big component is Nutrition.

In this episode, I discuss all things Kidney. Get tools, meal inspiration, and recommendations to elevate your practice and your patients' nutrition, while addressing those all-too-common Kidney patterns. Let's go!

Key points covered in this episode:

• TCM Nutrition for the 4 most common TCM Kidney Patterns
• How you can align with Winter and this transitional period
• Food recommendations for each Kidney pattern
• A personal story on how being born prematurely gave me low Kidney Essence and what I'm doing about it 

BONUS: Address symptoms, emotions, and nutrition recommendations for harmonizing all five-year organ patterns with my FREE TCM Nutrition Guide. Get yours in less than a minute right now👇🏻

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

After listening to this episode, your patient's home care will never be the same.

As practitioners, we know food is medicine, and our digestion is a key to our health. Meet Tara Akuna & Sara Ward, two acupuncturists on a mission to bring TCM Nutrition into the 21st century. They're here to simplify food cures, so you can share customized plans with your patients (and for yourself!) for optimal healing. Are you hungry for knowledge? Let's go!

Key points in this episode:

• How TCM Diagnosis and Nutrition are intricately linked 
• Why educating and guiding your patients with nutrition is empowering
• Simple recipes you can incorporate into your patients' day-to-day starting today
• An easy go-to guide you and your patients can reference, specific to their patterns that only requires basic ingredients found at your local grocer  

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Do you feel that the 8 extraordinary vessels are not taught enough in depth in TCM school? Have you been wondering how you can use them in clinical practice? You're in the right place. I've attended many seminars and read books on this subject.

Today I'm giving YOU a masterclass and sharing the knowledge I've learned over the years. Tapping into the eight extra vessels is something I love to do in my clinic and after listening to this episode, I hope you will, too.

Key points in this episode:

• Each vessel, how they function and how you can use them in clinical practice
• How to connect meridians to extraordinary vessels
• Learn the ways the vessels are connected and can influence genetics, reproduction and combat the effects of aging
• How you can address the physical, emotional, intergenerational and childhood traumas using the 8 extraordinary vessels

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!

Today's guest made me cry. I didn't expect that at all. You are going to be blown away because my guest today is Yvonne Farrell! 😱 She is my idol. She gave a masterclass on psycho-emotional pain using the 8 Extra Vessels.

Key points in this episode:

• A deep dive into the 8 extraordinary vessels
• Their vital role in addressing psycho-emotional pain 
• The Chong Mai and Dai Mai, how they can address emotional trauma, intergenerational trauma, and existential crises.
• Why intention is key in your practice, and how to stay balanced while working with complex and sensitive cases

You do NOT want to miss this MASTERCLASS! 🎓

➡️ Visit the show notes for all the links mentioned in this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. So many fantastic episodes are coming your way! If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

Have a message for Clara? Send it here!

And connect with @AcuProAcademy on all social media!