For more than 25 years, Iris Netzer-Greenfield has been a practitioner of acupuncture. Here, she shares a bit about her background, who acupuncture can help, and how she practices with Westport Lifestyle. Her Westport location, Noa, is the perfect place to learn more about the ancient practice if you're interested in trying it out yourself this year.
Westport Lifestyle: Tell us your own acupuncture story— what first made you interested in acupuncture?
Iris Netzer-Greenfield: I have practiced acupuncture for over 25 years and served the Westport community for the past 10. From a young age, I’ve been deeply fascinated by the human body, and the Eastern perspective of balance has guided both my personal life and professional approach. My interest deepened when my aunt returned to school to pursue a more altruistic career, introducing me to this path.
WL: What made you start your own acupuncture business?
ING: I am passionate about providing natural and holistic health care. Starting my own practice was the most practical way to institute the types of services to the patients that I treat.
WL: What kinds of people stand to get the most benefit from acupuncture?
ING: Those seeking care outside of traditional Western practices. This is a centuries-old approach that complements Western medicine, rather than conflicting with it.
WL: What does a typical treatment session entail?
ING: Discussion and assessment, needle placement and removal, and post-session advice. Each session may vary slightly to accommodate individual needs.
WL: What are some common misconceptions people have walking in the first time?
ING: That it's going to hurt! Most people hardly feel it.
WL: What is a typical treatment schedule (i.e., how often do you generally recommend getting acupuncture)?
ING: Depending on the individual, most patients begin with weekly sessions. Over the following weeks, we reassess to adjust the treatment plan as needed.
WL: What is your favorite thing about watching someone become a regular patient?
ING: I truly find fulfillment in being an active part of the healing journey, offering support and guidance that fosters positive change. Over the years, this compassionate work has allowed me to forge numerous meaningful relationships, which makes my "work" not feel like work at all.
WL: What makes you excited to go into Noa each day?
ING: One of the most empowering aspects of my life is the ability to be my own boss. I have the freedom to wake up each day and immerse myself in work that I genuinely love, driven by passion rather than obligation.
Noa is located at 37 Franklin St., Ste 1. For more about Noa, visit noacenter.com
"Acupuncture is a centuries-old approach that complements Western medicine, rather than conflicting with it," explains Iris Netzer-Greenfield, founder of Noa.