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Michael

Learning From Patients

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As an Acupuncturist I’m required, each year, to continue my education by completing several hours of post-graduate training — courses and workshops on acupuncture and other health related subjects. I usually enjoy these opportunities to travel, study, and meet with colleagues, but the truth is, most of my “continuing education” occurs each day in the clinic. Every day I learn something new from my patients — by caring for them, and listening to their stories about health, and their lives overall.

As way of honouring and appreciating all that I learn, I’m dedicating the next few blog posts to just that — things my patients teach me.

One of the greatest teachings I experience every day in the clinic is empathy. Each day, listening to the stories of my patients, I am reminded of how similar we all are. We all experience the same joy and sorrow, triumphs and tribulations, pain and suffering. This may sound cliche, but the daily experience of working in the clinic is a powerful reminder of our inter-connectedness. Feeling that connection allows me to connect deeper with my patients and their healing journey. When I walk out of the clinic, I find that my empathy has opened a bit more, allowing me to feel compassion towards those that I might otherwise feel annoyed or impatient with.Read More »Learning From Patients