M Center Acupuncture and Wellness

Welcome to M Center Acupuncture and Wellness

Here is everything you need to know to prepare for your cornerstone session with

Dr. Mary Elizabeth Micari DAc LAc

Preparing for Your First Session

1. What should I wear?

Think “backstage comfort.” Please wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that can easily be rolled up to the elbows or knees. Many of the most powerful acupuncture points are located on the lower arms and legs. If we are working on a specific injury (like a back or shoulder issue for our IATSE crew), we may need to access those areas directly, so dress in layers.

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2. Should I eat before my appointment?

Acupuncture is most effective when your body has a steady source of energy.

  • Don’t come on an empty stomach: Have a light meal or snack an hour or two before you arrive.
  • Don’t come overly full: Avoid heavy, greasy meals immediately before treatment.
  • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, but try to avoid excessive caffeine before your session so your nervous system is ready to settle.

3. What should I bring?

  • Information: A list of any current medications or supplements you are taking.
  • Union ID: If you are booking under our Center Stage or Backstage Recovery protocols, please have your Union ID (AEA, SAG-AFTRA, AGMA, AGVA, or IATSE) ready to verify your professional rate.
  • Your History: Be prepared to discuss your health journey. As a lifelong New Yorker, Dr. Mary understands the specific stressors of this city—don’t be afraid to share how the “NYC pace” is affecting you.

The Herbal Consultation: What to Expect

At M Center, we believe internal balance is the foundation of external vitality. That is why a stand-alone herbal consultation is included in every package.

  • Tongue and Pulse Analysis: This is the “diagnostic rehearsal” of TCM. Dr. Mary will look at your tongue and feel the quality of your pulse at your wrists. This provides a clear picture of your internal landscape.
  • Custom Strategy: Based on this analysis, she will recommend a custom herbal protocol.
  • The Fine Print: While the consultation is included in your package, the cost of the herbal formulas themselves is billed separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it hurt?

This is the most common question we hear. Acupuncture needles are hair-thin and solid—nothing like the hollow needles used for shots or blood draws. Most patients feel a slight “Qi sensation” (a heavy or tingly feeling) followed by a state of deep relaxation. Many of our clients even fall asleep during their treatment.

How long does it take?

Your cornerstone (first) visit lasts about 75 to 90 minutes to allow for a thorough intake. Follow-up sessions are typically 60 minutes.

What happens after the treatment?

You may feel a “post-acupuncture glow” or a sense of deep calm. We recommend taking it easy for a few hours after your session. If you are a performer, try to schedule your treatments on a day when you don’t have a high-intensity vocal performance immediately following, to allow your system to fully integrate the work.