Study Acupuncture with Me

Hey there, acupuncture rockstars! Dr. Richard Lai here, and welcome to the "Study Acupuncture With Me" podcast. I’m so glad you’re here—think of this as your safe and encouraging space to unravel tricky TCM topics, gain clarity, and build confidence for both clinic life and board exams.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the real-world challenge of “mixed patterns” with a special focus on Spleen Qi Deficiency combined with Damp Accumulation—a pattern you’ll see all the time in the clinic! I’ll walk you step-by-step through recognizing key symptoms, understanding the reasoning behind TCM diagnosis, and developing treatment strategies that adapt to your patient’s needs. You’ll also pick up actionable tips, practical analogies, and my personal thoughts on treating root vs. branch—and how to do all this with a patient-centered mindset.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How to confidently spot the signs of Spleen Qi Deficiency and Damp Accumulation

• The logic behind treatment principles for mixed excess/deficiency patterns

• Practical point selections and how to tailor them to different patients

• Real-life applications to get you ready for clinic and exam day

• 00:00 – Welcome & Episode Introduction

• 00:45 – Case Presentation: Patient Symptoms & Exam Findings

• 01:56 – Diagnosis Breakdown: Spleen Qi Deficiency & Damp Accumulation

• 03:02 – Easy-to-Understand Analogies for Patient Education

• 04:20 – Treating Root vs. Manifestation: When & Why

• 06:12 – Acupuncture Point Selection & Real-World Application

• 07:44 – The Art of Personalizing Treatment

• 08:46 – Closing Thoughts & Next Steps

If this episode helped you, I’d love to hear what pattern you want to break down next! Drop a comment on my socials, subscribe to the podcast, and don’t forget to visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin to join our email list—you’ll get a weekly exam type question every single week! Readable in FIVE MINUTEs

Let’s keep learning and growing together. Until next time, happy studying!

Hey there, future acupuncture all-stars! Dr. Richard Lai here—and I’m so glad you’re joining me for another episode of “Study Acupuncture with Me.” Whether you’re sneaking in some study time between classes or listening on your commute, you’re in the right place to grow your skills and confidence.

In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the differences—and the surprising similarities—between acupuncture evaluation techniques and Western physical examination methods. We’ll walk through each step of the evaluation process together, explore the “four pillars” of Chinese medicine diagnosis, and see how they compare (and blend beautifully!) with Western medical approaches. Plus, I’ll share real-world tips to help you connect all these concepts, not just for your board exams—but for your future clinic, too. Remember, progress is better than perfection, and I’m here to help you use your most precious resource: your time.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:

Timestamps

• 00:00 – Personal intro & overcoming perfectionism as a student/practitioner

• 01:20 – Why evaluation is the foundation of effective acupuncture treatment

• 02:44 – Chinese Medicine: The Four Pillars of Diagnosis (observation, palpation, listening/smelling, asking)

• 04:02 – Western Physical Examination: Inspection, Palpation, Percussion, Auscultation

• 07:37 – Real-life examples: How both systems approach patient assessment

• 10:12 – Clinical workflow: How to weave acu and Western techniques together

• 11:51 – Decoding symptoms: Sorting info for a clear diagnosis and strong treatment plan

• 13:31 – Explaining your diagnosis in patient-friendly language for better trust and outcomes

• 14:15 – Quick recap & encouragement for your journey

If you found this episode helpful, I’d love to hear from you! Comment on my socials, let me know your questions, and don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast so you never miss a new release. For free study resources and to join my email list (so you can snag my Quick Win newsletter and more), visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin

Happy studying, and remember—you’ve got this!

Hey there, future acupuncturists! Dr. Richard Lai here, and I’m so glad you decided to join me for another episode of "Study Acupuncture with Me." Whether you’re a long-time listener or totally new to the show, you’re in the right place if you want to REALLY understand traditional Chinese medicine—not just memorize it for exams!

Today, I’m diving into the fascinating world of Divergent Channels in TCM, inspired by a fantastic question from one of our listeners, Manya (shoutout to Eight Branches College in Toronto!). We’ll cover the WHY, the HOW, and—most importantly—the practical, clinical skills you can use to help your patients when yin and yang just aren’t getting along. You'll come away with a clear view of what divergent channels do, when to use them, and a step-by-step method on how to select acupuncture points for cases where deeper yin-yang harmonization is needed.

Here’s what you’ll find in this episode:

Timestamps

• 00:00:00 – Welcome & Intro: Why we dig deeper into TCM for clinical practice

• 00:01:18 – Listener Question: Manya’s request about divergent channels

• 00:03:11 – Divergent Channel Basics: The who, what, where, when, and why

• 00:06:50 – Pathways & Functions: How divergent channels connect yin and yang paired organs

• 00:13:20 – When to Use Divergent Channels: Chronic, complex, and latent conditions

• 00:14:48 – Case Example: Balancing spleen and stomach with divergent channels

• 00:17:37 – Heart & Small Intestine Case: Point selection step-by-step

• 00:22:08 – Building a Clinical Workflow: 4 steps for effective divergent channel treatments

• 00:24:14 – Key Takeaways & Recap: The big picture and workflow review

• 00:25:23 – Wrap-Up & Study Tips

I love hearing your questions and seeing this community grow! Drop me a comment on my socials, subscribe to the podcast, and don’t forget to visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin for FREE study resources, step-by-step guides, and to join my Quick Win email list for weekly board-style questions delivered right to your inbox.

Happy studying—and remember, you’ve got this!

Hey future acupuncturists! Welcome back to another “Study Acupuncture with Me” episode—your go-to space for TCM wisdom, board exam prep, and compassionate advice. I’m Dr. Richard Lai, DPT, LAc, and I’m here to help you not just study, but really understand and apply traditional Chinese medicine in a real-world, patient-centered way.

In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into one of the most common but least-talked-about topics: low libido and loss of erections, especially in men under 30. We’ll break down how TCM views sexual function holistically—looking at constitution, lifestyle, and emotional wellness. I’ll guide you through the main TCM patterns that may present with these symptoms (like Kidney Yang deficiency, Kidney Yin deficiency, Liver Qi stagnation, and Heart/Spleen Qi deficiency), and share my go-to supportive lifestyle modifications to help your future patients feel seen and empowered. Let’s make this a topic you approach confidently—in the exam room, and in life!

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 – Warm welcome, why we’re talking about low libido and erections, and the importance of destigmatizing the conversation

• 00:02:26 – TCM constitutional theory: understanding each person’s unique “terrain”

• 00:04:10 – Kidney Yang Deficiency: Signs, symptoms, and common causes

• 00:06:00 – Kidney Yin Deficiency: How stress and overstimulation dry out the yin

• 00:08:36 – Liver Qi Stagnation: The role of emotions and performance anxiety

• 00:10:03 – Heart and Spleen Qi Deficiency: Overthinking, worry, and caring for others before yourself

• 00:12:09 – Practical lifestyle modifications and self-care modalities in TCM

• 00:14:56 – Encouragement to seek care, be open, and the power of personalized TCM

• 00:15:38 – Board prep resources and community connection

If this episode helped you deepen your understanding, please comment on my socials, subscribe to the podcast, and share it with a friend who'd benefit. And don't forget—sign up for my quickwin newsletter www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin for free study resources and to join my email list, where you’ll get weekly board exam questions, tips, and more, right to your inbox.

Let’s keep learning together—you’re not alone on this journey. Happy studying!

Hey there, future acupuncturists! Welcome back to another episode of “Study Acupuncture with Me.” I’m Dr. Richard Lai, and whether you’re studying for your board exam or already practicing, I’m here to help you learn, retain, and fall in love with Traditional Chinese Medicine—one car ride chat at a time!

In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into one of the most commonly asked questions about TCM dampness: What’s the difference between external and internal dampness, how do you spot them in your patients, and can external dampness really turn into internal dampness? Spoiler alert: Yes, it can! I’ll walk you through clinical tips, key signs and symptoms, and handy mnemonics for differential diagnosis so you’ll feel more confident in clinic and ready for your next exam.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

• The basics and key differences between external and internal dampness

• Real-world examples of dampness in your patients

• How external dampness can transform into internal dampness

• Clinical pearls: diagnosis, tongue and pulse, and my favorite “OLD FARTS” mnemonic for patient assessment

• How to confidently approach differential diagnosis in practice

Timestamps:
00:00 – Warm welcome & episode inspiration
01:11 – Explaining external dampness: causes, symptoms, and diagnosis tips
03:45 – Internal dampness: spleen deficiency, signs, and the role of diet
07:04 – Can external become internal dampness? The progression explained
09:21 – Mnemonics and clinical tools for differential diagnosis
10:55 – Final thoughts: Chronic vs. acute dampness, and the importance of thorough evaluation

If you found this helpful, let me know your thoughts or questions over on my socials! Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a clinical pearl, and visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin for free study resources and to join my email list—I send weekly tips to help you pass your exams and become the acupuncturist you’re meant to be.

Keep up the amazing work—happy studying, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way!

Welcome, future acupuncturists! It’s Dr. Richard Lai here, and I’m so glad you’re joining us for another episode of “Study Acupuncture With Me.” You’re in for a real treat today—like sitting down with your favorite professor for a cup of tea and a chat about the real experiences that shape our path as healers.

In this episode, I visit the warm, welcoming space of Lodi Acupuncture and Wellness to talk with my longtime friend and inspiring colleague, Tracy Beagle. Whether you’re still navigating the challenges of acupuncture school, transitioning into your own practice, or even wondering how you’ll find your unique voice as a practitioner, Tracy’s story is full of honest reflections, practical insights, and heartfelt encouragement. We talk about building a practice that’s true to you, handling self-doubt, redefining success, and ways to care for your own well-being—plus, we dive into Tracy’s special workshops designed just for students who may be feeling the weight of stress or overwhelm. If you’ve ever questioned your path or felt the pressure to “do it all,” this conversation will remind you: you’re not alone, and you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

Tracy's links:

Tracy's website

Tracy's instagram

Timestamps

• 0:00 – Welcome & Introduction at Lodi Acupuncture and Wellness

• 1:10 – Tracy’s journey: from front desk to acupuncturist

• 3:25 – Rethinking credentials and what makes a great practitioner

• 7:18 – Finding confidence: “You are always safe in service”

• 10:07 – Running a solo practice vs. working in a busy clinic

• 14:09 – Balancing mental health, energy, and true patient care

• 18:30 – Discovering your unique path (and giving yourself permission to change!)

• 22:35 – Tracy’s biggest challenges and her spiritual journey

• 35:02 – Student stress, self-awareness, and letting go of comparison

• 43:01 – Tracy’s new workshop for acupuncture students

• 48:53 – How to join Tracy’s workshop and connect

• 51:54 – Final words of support for students

If today’s episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you! Comment on my socials, subscribe to the podcast, and don’t forget to visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin to get practice questions with explanation to your email every week!

Remember, you’re not walking this journey alone—I’m here cheering you on every step of the way.

Let’s keep growing together—subscribe, share, and check out the website for more tools to help you thrive. Keep up the great work, and I can’t wait to connect with you again soon!

Hey future acupuncturists! Dr. Richard Lai here, and welcome back to “Study Acupuncture with Me.” I’m so glad you’re joining me — whether you’re commuting, studying, or just squeezing in a few extra review minutes, I’m here to walk this journey with you.

In today’s episode, we dive deep into TCM Bi Syndrome, also known as Painful Obstruction Syndrome. We’ll break down each of the four main types—wander, fixed, freeze, and fever—using simple analogies and real-world acupuncture point recommendations. My goal is to help you not just memorize board exam facts, but truly understand the “why” behind the patterns, so you can confidently help your future patients. And as always, I’ll sprinkle in some encouragement because I know you have what it takes to succeed!

Here’s what we cover in this episode:

• Why I record my episodes in the “mobile office” (my car!) and the beauty of finding learning moments in everyday chaos

• What Bi Syndrome is, its causes, and the crucial analogy to traffic jams

• The four types of Bi Syndrome (wander, fixed, freeze, fever) explained with symptoms, causes, and key acupuncture points

• Study encouragement, board exam prep, and mindset tips to keep you inspired!

Timestamps: 00:00 – Warm welcome and “mobile office” intro
01:30 – Rainy day inspiration: why today’s weather is perfect for talking Bi Syndrome
02:12 – What is Bi (Painful Obstruction) Syndrome? TCM definition and traffic jam analogy
03:26 – The “WFFF” method: Wander, Fixed, Freeze, Fever (overview)
03:49 – Wandering Bi: wind, shifting pain, and recommended points
04:43 – Fixed Bi: dampness, heaviness/swelling, best points for damp
05:24 – Freezing Bi: cold, sharp pain alleviated by warmth, moxa techniques
06:48 – Fever (Hot) Bi: heat, burning pain/redness, cooling point strategies
07:13 – Quick review and encouragement for board prep
07:44 – How to reach out for questions and sneak peek at my upcoming board prep course
08:24 – Heartfelt encouragement: you WILL help people and succeed!

Ready to keep growing?
Drop your questions or thoughts in the comments on my socials—I love hearing from you! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a new episode, and visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin join my email list for weekly questions.

You’ve got this, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way!

Hey there, acupuncture students! It’s Dr. Richard Lai here— Welcome back to another episode of “Study Acupuncture with Me,” where we not only tackle the boards together, but also the real-life challenges that come up on this journey.

In this episode, we dive into a deeply important topic: how abusive or toxic relationships can impact your health from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective—specifically, how the liver and qi flow are affected by emotional turmoil. I’ll walk you through the physiological and emotional connections, share personal experiences, and offer actionable TCM tools for healing and moving forward. Plus, you’ll find resources and encouragement if you or someone you know is struggling. Remember, you’re never alone in this—your well-being matters just as much as your studies.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

Timestamps:

• 00:00 — Warm welcome & personal reflection on why this topic matters

• 00:58 — Crisis resources for anyone facing abuse or feeling unsafe

• 02:18 — How abuse affects everyone (not just women) & personal story

• 05:13 — Key signs of abusive relationships & the strength of seeking help

• 07:11 — The liver and anger: TCM’s view on emotions and qi stagnation

• 11:07 — Physical & emotional symptoms of liver qi stagnation

• 13:53 — Practical TCM strategies for unblocking liver qi & self-healing

• 17:18 — Claiming space, setting boundaries, and the upward nature of liver energy

• 18:12 — The most important takeaways—and encouragement just for you

If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment on my socials, subscribe to the podcast, and be sure to visit www.studyacuwithme.com for free study resources and to join our supportive email list. You’ve got this, and I’m rooting for you every step of the way!

Happy studying, and keep taking up space—you deserve it!
Resources mentioned:- In the U.S., call 1-800-799-SAFE — that’s the National Domestic Violence Hotline, or visit thehotline.org - If you’re younger or a student, you can text “LOVEIS” to 22522 through Love is Respect. - And if you're outside the U.S... look up LILA.HELP

Hey there, acupuncture scholars! 👋 Dr. Richard Lai here, and welcome back to Study Acupuncture with Me—your mobile classroom for mastering TCM, no matter where life takes us. I’m so glad you’re joining me, and I promise we’re buckled up for another episode filled with encouragement, practical tips, and heart.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into one of the most foundational concepts in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Deficiency vs. Excess. I’ll break down what these principles really mean, how to spot them in your patients, and why they’re absolutely essential for acing your board exams and becoming a confident, skillful practitioner. Whether you’re brand new to acupuncture or a seasoned pro, you’ll find actionable insights and motivating advice to supercharge your study routine (yes—even if you’re listening while driving, commuting, or doing the dishes!). Remember, success is all about those small efforts repeated day in and day out. Let’s make today count!

Timestamps:

• 00:00 — Warm Welcome & Study Motivation

• 03:01 — The Eight Principles: Why Basics Matter

• 03:23 — Understanding Deficiency: Qi, Blood, Yin, Yang

• 09:25 — Flipping to Excess: Signs, Symptoms & Examples

• 13:51 — Case Studies: Putting Theory into Practice

• 18:20 — Clinical Tips: Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis

• 20:35 — Study Hacks: Spaced Repetition & Smart Prep

• 21:50 — Final Boost & Words of Encouragement

I’d love to hear how this episode helped you! Head over to my socials and drop a comment with what resonated most, your study wins, or any questions you want answered. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more heart-to-heart acupuncture talks, and visit www.studyacuwithme.com to grab your FREE study resources and join our supportive email community.

Keep studying smart, keep showing up, and remember—I’m rooting for you every step of the way! God bless, and happy studying!

So you failed the acupuncture board exam... now what?

Recently I went through a failing moment and making this video was part of my healing process. I took a big risk trying to buy a new home for my family—but it didn’t go as planned. We had to leave the place where we built so many memories… and move back into my childhood home.

This video helped me process the grief, the guilt, and the hope that still remains. One thing is for certain - i'm eternally grateful to have family that we can lean on and help us get through these times.

But having to move back in without being able to buy a home feels like a massive step backward—and that feeling mirrors exactly what it’s like to fail the NCCAOM board exam.You might have failed the boards once... twice, or more - my heart feels for you..

I know what it’s like to feel like you’ve let everyone down. To feel like all your studying, money, and sacrifice just wasn't enough. But I also know what it means to rise—and how to find your strength again.

I hope this video helps you find your strength again too, and I hope this video reminds you that you're not alone - that you have yourself, your friends and your family to lean on through these hard times (and of course you have me too to help as much as I can with your studies)

👉 This video is literally my heart opened up, so if you're an acupuncture student or just someone who feels defeated by something like an exam, a job or even just life in general - I hope you watch this video until the end... and if you'd be so brave and tell me about what's going on with you and how you're rising from it.

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📚 Want help studying for the NCCAOM boards?

👉 https://www.StudyAcuWithMe.com/quickwin