We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Nolan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Well, starting my business mid-pandemic was a conscious decision. I wanted to provide affordable healthcare to an underserved community, my community. At the time access to many healthcare services, both western and eastern was limited, and as a result, many people were not able to receive proper care. So I felt strongly that I needed to step up and provide a place for healing.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a licensed acupuncturist, herbalist, and sound healing practitioner in El Cajon California, and the owner of Peaceful Warrior Acupuncture. I am deeply passionate about treating my patients based on their individual needs. I use a blend of the traditional practices of acupuncture, cupping, and herbal medicine—as well as nutritional supplementation, lifestyle coaching, and sound healing to help my patients feel like the best version of themselves—physically, mentally, and spiritually. While a good chunk of my practice is focused on treating women’s health and pain management, I love treating emotional and mental health conditions as well.

What sets me apart is my ability to seamlessly blend Kiiko Matsumoto style Japanese Acupuncture, orthopedic acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine, sound healing, and Western Medicine. This is what makes my skillset diverse and dynamic.
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I received a Master of Science degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine (MSTOM) from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in 2019. I have also had the privilege of training at a teaching hospital in Beijing, China for a semester. Here I completed clinical rotations in the Gynecology, Pain Management, Orthopedic, and Neurology departments.

Opening my own practice has been one of the most rewarding and gratifying accomplishments but it was not without its obstacles. I began my business in December of 2020, knowing that it was a challenging time, but the fighter spirit in me knew with hard work I could not only survive but thrive. See having over 10 years of experience in martial arts has taught me that the energy you put into something is what you get out of it. My martial arts training actually catalyzed my Eastern Medicine journey. Through Muay Thai, I found a new inner strength and desire to lead a more balanced lifestyle.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Balboa Park will always be one of my favorite places to take a friend from out of town. It has a little something for everyone. From the eclectic museums to the beautiful gardens, and the fantastic restaurants it is always a great time. I also love the local mariscos trucks. Nothing beats our authentic Mexican food.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have had many amazing mentors and teachers along the way. Dr. Aimee C. Holdwick, DAOM, DiplOM (NCCAOM), LAc, and now the graduate academic dean of Pacific College of Health and Science has provided me with continual support and guidance throughout my eastern medicine studies and career. I have had the privilege of learning from her and working alongside her. I have also had the honor of shadowing Ian Armstrong L.Ac, C.SMA at his clinic Kinetik Performance Co. He is one of the top orthopedic acupuncturists in this state and that experience was invaluable. I would also like to extend many thanks and gratitude to my family and close friends especially my husband James. His altruistic soul has been a constant inspiration and driving force behind all my success.

Website: www.peacefulwarrioracupuncture.com

Instagram: peaceful_warrior_acupuncture

Facebook: Peaceful Warrior Acupuncture

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/peaceful-warrior-acupuncture-el-cajon

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