From London to Calgary Acupuncture: A Transatlantic Journey
Hey, I’m Dr. Sabina! This post is about my Calgary Acupuncture journey and how it began on the bustling streets of London, UK.
The Brave New World of Calgary
My hope is that these words resonate with you. Whether you’re curious about starting over in a new place, or interested in the world of Calgary Acupuncture, I hope these words can inspire.
So, why did I choose Calgary as my new home?
The short answer: love and adventure. I met my husband in London (my hometown), and I always knew that if our relationship was going to last, I’d eventually be moving to Canada. He’s Canadian and always spoke passionately about being close to the Rockies. In December 2021, we took the plunge and made Calgary our new base.
What drew me in?
- The proximity to the mountains. As someone from a city where green spaces are treasured, having such breathtaking nature on my doorstep is a dream.
- Calgary’s reputation as one of the sunniest places in the world. As a Londoner used to grey skies and drizzle, the promise of sunshine was irresistible!
- The city’s friendly spirit and welcoming community.
Since arriving, I truly haven’t looked back. Calgary’s natural beauty, vibrant energy, and vast, open spaces have sparked a sense of adventure and peacefulness in me. This city has become the perfect foundation for my practice and my personal growth.
How Acupuncture Transformed My Fertility Journey
My husband and I spent years trying to conceive. We made it onto the IVF list in the UK, because doctors told me conceiving naturally would be very unlikely. I’d need substantial support. I’ll never forget: our first IVF appointment was scheduled for October 2, 2021. But in August—just a couple of months before we were supposed to start—I found out I was pregnant. Miracle, fate, or just a happy twist—whatever it was, I couldn’t believe our luck.
Throughout this emotional journey, I was receiving regular acupuncture alongside my western medical care. Deep down, I knew fertility acupuncture played a significant role in helping me conceive. When we learned we were expecting a boy, we were ecstatic and started dreaming up all sorts of names. I was already in love with him, excited for the day I’d finally get to meet my little one.
This was also the moment we chose to make our move to Calgary. Wanting to be close to my husband’s family when the baby arrived, we uprooted ourselves and moved from London to Calgary in December 2021. Right in the middle of my pregnancy and right in the middle of winter (sigh). The transition in care was incredible. Calgary welcomed us, and I felt so touched by the kindness and quality of care I received here in Alberta. It planted a resolve in me. As soon as I was able, I wanted to give back to this community, supporting others with the same passion and care I had experienced.
But sometimes, even our best-laid plans can take an unexpected turn, and life as I knew it changed in ways I never could have imagined…
Coping With Loss and Embracing New Paths
This is the part where I share the unthinkable—a chapter that still feels surreal to write.
There is something profoundly unsettling about a new soul leaving this world too soon. Our beautiful baby boy, Aslan, was born at Foothills Hospital in Calgary in April 2022. To our shock and heartbreak, he passed away after just a day with us due to an undiagnosed congenital disease. The news was devastating and unimaginable—nothing could have prepared us for it.
We were given four precious hours as a family. Taking turns holding Aslan while he was in the NICU at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, his only home. Every second was a gift. One day, I hope to find the courage and words to share more about him, and all that he taught us in that short time.
Not long after losing Aslan, I learned that my mum had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Time seemed to freeze, and my world felt like it was crumbling. The person I thought would be my anchor through this loss suddenly had only months to live. Grief upon grief, I found myself in an incredibly dark place.
In the midst of all this, a small glimmer of comfort came from my acupuncture sessions. They became the one appointment I made sure to keep, week after week, even as everything felt heavy and uncertain. Acupuncture did not erase the pain, but somehow, it helped me bear it. For that one hour, it felt as if I could set down the heavy stone I’d been carrying, just long enough to catch my breath before picking it back up again.
Rediscovering Purpose: Embracing a New Beginning
A month after the loss of my little boy, I found myself sitting in the office of Dr. Du, the president of the Calgary College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture. My husband was beside me, and I’m sure our sadness was unmistakable. I shared my interest in the three-year Acupuncture program, and I was transparent about what I’d just endured. Dr. Du’s compassion and capacity for empathy left a lasting impression; he made a space that felt safe and welcoming at a time when I needed it most. I realized, almost instantly, that this was where I needed to be.
Seeking a passion felt almost impossible so soon after my son’s passing—“passion” was such a difficult word—but in hindsight, enrolling in the acupuncture program truly marked the beginning of my healing. Signing up saved me in ways I couldn’t understand back then.
Three Years of Study: Into the World of Acupuncture
The next three years became total immersion in the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). I studied herbs, formulas, acupuncture points, and the underlying theories—many of which seemed overwhelming at first, but gradually revealed their interconnected wisdom. Night after night, consistent dedication slowly transformed confusion into understanding. This new world of holistic healing fuelled me with meaning and purpose. What once felt like a miracle through receiving acupuncture for fertility or grief now made sense as I learned the science and philosophy behind it.
The third year of study was my favourite because this is when we started seeing patients. I was loving every single appointment forming bonds and connections with my dedicated patients. Also, just before year 3 began, life gifted me with the sweetest reward. In April 2024, right in the midst of my acupuncture studies, we welcomed our beautiful daughter, Emerald. She journeyed through every class through second year of my studies: Anatomy, TCM Diagnosis, Herbal Formulas, Medical Terminology, Massage, and more—soaking in all that ancient wisdom right inside mamas belly! Once again, acupuncture and herbal medicine played a powerful role in helping us conceive our joyous miracle.
Calgary Acupuncture: Bringing Holistic Healing to My Community
My life in Calgary has been a tapestry of beginnings and endings, woven together over a short span of time. In all its beauty and complexity, this city—the very soil beneath my feet—has held space for me as I navigated some of life’s greatest joys and deepest sorrows. For this, I have truly fallen in love with Calgary. Here, both of my babies were born. The Rockies is where my boy’s ashes are scattered. Here, I was wrapped in the tender support of a caring community: from healthcare practitioners to acupuncturists, chiropractors, counsellors, and naturopaths. During my most vulnerable moments, I leaned on this “village,” and now, feeling stronger and more revitalized, I know it’s my turn to give back.
Today, I am so proud to have graduated and to be working at a beautiful clinic—Acupuncture Plus in Glenmore Landing, south Calgary. If you’re seeking a Calgary acupuncture clinic that values empathy and lived experience, you’ll find a safe space at Acupuncture Plus. While I may be new in professional practice, I carry with me a depth of wisdom shaped as much by personal transformation as by my formal acupuncture education. I trust that those who are meant to find me—who need what I offer—will be drawn to connect when the time is right. My promise is to hold space for their healing journey, in whatever form it takes.
How Acupuncture Can Support Your Wellness
Acupuncture is incredible for so many concerns, from chronic and acute pain to insomnia and digestive issues. Through my study and practice, I’ve come to believe that many of the ailments modern humans face don’t have to be permanent. With the right combination of acupuncture, herbal formulas, and thoughtful lifestyle tweaks, we can make tremendous improvements to our well-being. I want you to know that I’m here to support you every step of the way!
My deepest passion, as you can imagine, lies in supporting those on their fertility and prenatal journeys, as well as those navigating loss. Whether you are seeking hope, relief, or simply a companion on your healing path, know that you are welcome.
What Can I Expect from My First Session with Dr. Sabina?
When you walk into the clinic, the first thing you’ll receive is a heartfelt welcome and a compassionate space where you can truly be yourself. Your initial acupuncture consultation lasts 90 minutes, giving us ample time to get to know each other and discuss what matters most to you—your health goals, concerns, and any questions you might have. The assessment portion will take about 20 minutes; after that, the rest of our time is devoted to your personalized care and comfort.
During your visit, I often combine acupuncture with therapies like cupping and a gentle, restorative massage. For musculoskeletal (MSK) issues, I may also use electrostimulation—a safe and effective way to enhance pain relief and promote healing. Everything is tailored specifically for your needs, ensuring a holistic approach every step of the way.
If you’re interested in self-care and natural beauty, you might love my facial rejuvenation acupuncture. This treatment takes your well-being to the next level! I use fine needles to stimulate blood flow and boost collagen production, followed by relaxing facial massage, guasha, and cute little silicon cups to revitalize your skin. It’s a truly rejuvenating experience.
Book In With Me Today
If you’re in Calgary and searching for an acupuncturist who blends professional expertise with passion and genuine care. Whether your journey involves fertility, wellness, pain relief, or simply seeking a new sense of balance and meaning, I’m here to walk beside you every step of the way. Let’s begin your healing together.
