We're an acupuncture and functional medicine clinic in downtown Seattle. We've been around since 2008. Our work blends traditional Chinese medicine with modern functional medicine, and we treat everything from chronic pain and digestive issues to hormonal patterns, fertility, autoimmune conditions, and the long tail of 'something is off and no one can figure out what.' We specialize in the complex, chronic, and 'mystery' cases that other clinics often punt on.

What makes you different from other acupuncture clinics?

Three things. First, we treat the whole person, not just the symptom — every plan is customized, no cookie-cutter protocols. Second, we blend Chinese medicine with functional medicine, lab work, modern technology, and clinical reasoning that most acupuncture clinics don't do. Third, we say what we mean. We'll tell you straight up if we think we can help, if we think you'd be better served somewhere else, or if a particular intervention isn't right for you yet. We're not here to upsell you — we're here to actually fix what's going on.

Where is GoodMedizen located?

We're at 509 Olive Way, Suite 1401, in downtown Seattle, WA 98101. The Medical Dental Building, on the corner of Olive Way and 6th Ave. The primary entrance is on Olive Way next to Go Fitness and Cherry Street Coffee. Take the elevator to the 14th floor.

Yes. Every provider at GoodMedizen is a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.) with a Master's degree in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, plus extensive continuing education. We're nationally board certified and licensed by the State of Washington.

What conditions do you treat?

A lot. Pain (chronic and acute), digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, fertility, anxiety and depression, sleep problems, allergies, autoimmune conditions, fatigue, post-surgical recovery, headaches and migraines, neurological conditions, skin conditions, and the long tail of 'something is off and no one can figure out what.' Acupuncture and TCM are whole systems of medicine — we're always looking at the whole body, working on restoration of function to help your body perform the duties it's supposed to.

Do you take my insurance?

We're in-network with most major Seattle-area carriers including Premera, Regence, Aetna, Cigna, First Choice Health, Kaiser PPO, Molina, and several others. We can verify your specific benefits before your first visit so there are no surprises — text us your insurance info or fill out the form on our website and we'll run a benefits check for you.

What if you don't take my insurance?

We're preferred providers for most insurance plans in Washington State. We can still see you on a self-pay basis at our standard or member rates. If you have an FSA or HSA, you can typically use those. We can also provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement, depending on your plan.

How much will it cost me?

It depends on your insurance plan, your deductible status, and what services you receive. We'll always run a benefits check before your first visit and tell you what to expect — copay, deductible, coinsurance, the whole picture. No surprise bills.

How do GoodMedizen memberships work?

Standard ($99/mo) is for fairly straightforward cases — member-rate acupuncture, 10% tier discount, office-visit access to your practitioner, 60-minute appointment times that include a few modalities. Premium ($179/mo) adds weekly group Q&A access for people who want more clinical guidance between visits, with a 15% discount on everything. Functional ($397/mo) is the full toolkit — monthly functional medicine visits, quarterly lab review including specialty labs, dedicated messaging access with 24-hour return, 80-minute appointments for more modality work, and 20% off acupuncture, services, and supplements. Memberships are month-to-month and you can cancel anytime.

What's the difference between a la carte and a membership?

A la carte is pay-as-you-go — you pay full rate for each visit and service. Memberships give you a monthly rate that includes longer visits, member pricing on every service and supplement, modalities included in your appointment time, and varying levels of provider access depending on tier. Memberships are designed for people who plan to use them — if you'll be in regularly, they save you significant money over a la carte.

Does acupuncture hurt?

The needles we use are very small — about the width of a strand of hair — and most people do very well with them. They are still needles, so there might be a spot here or there that's a little sharp. If something feels sharp, it should go away within a moment or two. Some points, especially in the hands, can have a deep, dull, achy quality. That ache is actually a good thing, so long as you can rest comfortably with it. Our number one goal is that you are comfortable with our treatments.

How many acupuncture sessions will I need?

What we're trying to do in the beginning is get the attention of your immune system, so we front-load treatments 2–3 times a week for typically the first 2–3 weeks. If you aren't seeing significant change by visit 3, then we dig deeper. The ultimate goal is quarterly maintenance visits — 4 times a year at season change. The goal is to limit the amount of intervention you'll ever need.

How long until I feel better from acupuncture?

Most patients notice benefit from acupuncture at their very first visit, although the first benefits noticed can be nebulous — feeling more relaxed, sleeping better, having more energy. We want to start seeing explicit change around visit 3, and significant improvement around visits 4–6. We front-load treatments to get the attention of your immune system, then slow down.

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

Yes — and incredibly helpful. Acupuncture is safe throughout pregnancy when performed by a trained practitioner, and it can help with morning sickness, back pain, sleep, anxiety, breech presentation, labor preparation, and postpartum recovery. It's often one of the only things a pregnant person can do for stubborn aches and pains, as many standard treatments and medications are contraindicated.

Can children get acupuncture?

Yes. We treat kids of all ages, including infants for things like reflux and sleep disturbances. For younger children we often use non-needle techniques (shonishin, gentle bodywork, magnets, ear seeds) that get the same effect without the needles. By age 8–10, most kids are curious about the needles and actually lead us to start using them.

Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?

Dry needling is a form of acupuncture — so all dry needling is acupuncture, but not all acupuncture is dry needling. Acupuncture is a complete medical system with upwards of 5,000 years of clinical refinement. Acupuncturists train for 3–4 years at master's or doctorate level and complete national board exams. An acupuncturist needs 2,000–4,000 hours of training to insert needles. A physical therapist can be certified to do dry needling after 50–100 hours. That's the practical difference.

What is functional medicine and how is it different from going to my regular doctor?

Conventional medicine is excellent at acute care, surgery, and managing established disease. It's less designed for the chronic, complex, multi-system stuff — the gut/hormone/inflammation/fatigue tangles where every specialist sends you to a different specialist. Functional medicine zooms out, looks at how your systems interact, and uses targeted labs and interventions to address the upstream causes. We work alongside your conventional providers, not in place of them.

How long does functional medicine take to work?

Most people start feeling shifts within 4–6 weeks of starting a personalized protocol. Bigger structural changes — restoring gut function, rebalancing hormones, healing chronic inflammation — usually take 3–6 months of consistent work. Functional medicine is iterative: we run labs, build a protocol, retest, refine. It's not a quick fix; it's a rebuild.

How do I know if I need detox?

Common signs include chronic fatigue, brain fog, unexplained inflammation, hormonal disruption, chemical sensitivity, mold exposure history, dental amalgam history, occupational exposures, autoimmune patterns that aren't responding to other care, and a long history of 'doing everything right' without feeling right. We start with a thorough intake and (when indicated) testing to figure out whether toxic burden is actually the issue.

Why doesn't GoodMedizen sell a 30-day detox kit?

Because they don't work, and some of them are dangerous. Pre-packaged detox kits don't account for your specific exposure history, your drainage capacity, your genetic detox pathways, your medication situation, or your nutrient status. They mobilize toxins without first making sure your exits are open — which is exactly how detox protocols cause harm. Real detox is individual. We don't shortcut it because we've seen what happens when people do.

How much does microneedling cost at GoodMedizen?

Microneedling at GoodMedizen is a flat $619 per session and is never discounted. Exosomes are expensive — really expensive — and they're the difference between 'okay' results and exceptional ones. Cheap microneedling without quality exosomes is a fundamentally different treatment. We don't compromise on the materials.

How many microneedling sessions will I need?

Most people see significant results from a series of 3 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart, with maintenance every 6–12 months after. Severe scarring or significant sun damage may benefit from a series of 4–6 sessions.

What should I expect at my first acupuncture visit?

Your first visit is longer than a typical follow-up — usually 75–90 minutes — because we're doing a thorough intake. We'll go through your health history, current medications and supplements, lifestyle, and what brought you in. Then we'll do a TCM diagnostic exam (pulse, tongue, palpation) and build your initial treatment plan. The treatment itself is included in this first visit.

How do I book an appointment at GoodMedizen?

Online at goodmedizen.com/schedule-now — it's the fastest way and shows real-time availability. You can also text 206-402-3813 if you'd rather book that way or have a specific timing question.

What's the fastest way to reach GoodMedizen?

Text 206-402-3813. We're a busy clinic and during clinic hours we're with patients, hands-on, often literally holding needles. We can't pick up the phone in real time — but we can absolutely respond to a text between patients. Texting is by far the fastest way to get a response from us.

Stress and Anxiety Remedies: Natural Ways to Find Your Calm

Courtney Zeller
42 minutes ago
4 min read

Stress and anxiety - they sneak up on us, don’t they? One minute, you’re cruising through your day, and the next, your mind is racing, your heart is pounding, and you’re wondering how you’ll ever catch a break. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to reach for pills or wait for stress to fade on its own. There are plenty of natural ways to ease those feelings and reclaim your peace. Let’s dive into some effective, science-backed strategies that can help you manage stress and anxiety in a holistic, approachable way.

Exploring Stress and Anxiety Remedies That Work

When it comes to managing stress and anxiety, the options can feel overwhelming. But the best remedies often come from nature and simple lifestyle changes. These aren’t just old wives’ tales; many have been studied and shown to support mental well-being.

1. Mindful Breathing and Meditation

Ever noticed how your breath changes when you’re stressed? It gets shallow and quick. Slowing it down can send a powerful message to your brain: “Hey, it’s okay. We’re safe.” Mindful breathing exercises and meditation help regulate your nervous system, reducing the fight-or-flight response that fuels anxiety.

Try this: Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take a deep breath in through your nose for a count of four. Hold it for four, then exhale slowly through your mouth for six. Repeat for five minutes. You’ll be surprised how quickly your body relaxes.

2. Herbal Helpers: Nature’s Calm

Plants have been our allies for centuries. Herbs like chamomile, lavender, and valerian root are known for their calming properties. Chamomile tea, for example, contains antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and promote relaxation. Lavender essential oil, when inhaled or used in a diffuser, can lower heart rate and blood pressure, easing anxiety symptoms.

Of course, always check with a healthcare provider before starting any herbal supplements, especially if you’re on medication.

Close-up view of chamomile flowers in a garden

3. Movement and Exercise

You might think exercise is just for physical health, but it’s a powerhouse for mental health too. Physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters. Even a short walk around your neighborhood or a quick yoga session can help clear your mind and reduce stress hormones like cortisol.

If you’re new to exercise, start small. Ten minutes a day can make a difference and build momentum.

What Calms Nerves?

So, what exactly calms nerves when anxiety strikes? It’s all about activating the parasympathetic nervous system - the part of your nervous system that tells your body to relax and recover.

Deep Breathing and Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Deep breathing, as we mentioned, is a direct way to calm your nervous system. Another technique is progressive muscle relaxation, where you tense and then release different muscle groups. This practice helps you become more aware of physical tension and teaches your body how to let go of it.

Aromatherapy and Sensory Soothing

Certain scents can soothe your nerves. Lavender, bergamot, and sandalwood are favorites for their calming effects. Using essential oils in a diffuser or applying diluted oils to your wrists can create a peaceful environment that helps reduce anxiety.

Warm Baths and Comforting Rituals

A warm bath with Epsom salts or calming essential oils can relax muscles and calm the mind. Pair this with soft music or a good book, and you’ve got a mini retreat right at home.

Eye-level view of a warm bath setup with candles and essential oils

Nutrition’s Role in Stress and Anxiety Remedies

What you eat can either fuel your stress or help you fight it. Foods rich in magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants support brain health and reduce inflammation, which is linked to anxiety.

Foods to Embrace

Leafy greens like spinach and kale are packed with magnesium.
Fatty fish such as salmon provide omega-3s.
Berries offer antioxidants that protect brain cells.
Nuts and seeds give you a healthy dose of zinc and magnesium.

Foods to Limit

Excess caffeine can spike anxiety.
Sugary snacks may cause mood swings.
Processed foods often contain additives that can worsen stress.

Eating balanced meals and staying hydrated keeps your energy steady and your mind clear.

Sleep: The Unsung Hero of Stress Relief

Never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. When we don’t get enough rest, our bodies produce more stress hormones, and our ability to cope with anxiety diminishes.

Tips for Better Sleep

Stick to a consistent bedtime.
Create a calming pre-sleep routine - think reading or gentle stretches.
Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
Avoid screens at least an hour before bed.

Improving your sleep hygiene can dramatically reduce stress and anxiety levels.

Bringing It All Together: Your Personalized Stress Relief Plan

Everyone’s stress and anxiety look different, so it’s important to find what works best for you. Maybe it’s a combination of mindful breathing, herbal teas, and evening walks. Or perhaps you find solace in journaling and aromatherapy.

The key is to experiment and build a toolkit of natural strategies that fit your lifestyle. Remember, these remedies are about empowering you to take control of your well-being in a gentle, sustainable way.

If you want to explore more about natural remedies for stress and anxiety, there are plenty of resources and experts ready to guide you on this journey.

Stress and anxiety don’t have to rule your life. With a little patience and the right tools, you can find your calm and enjoy each day with more ease and confidence. Let’s embrace these natural approaches and make wellness a priority - because you deserve it.