This week, Affordable Acupuncture of Asheville opened its doors at 5 Regent Park Blvd. Ste. 104, offering a safe space for all to make progress in their wellness journey.

Licensed acupuncturists and co-owners Sam Soemardi and Megan Smith are working to break down boundaries to healthcare and make acupuncture more accessible to the community. "I had a brief moment where I did private acupuncture, but my friends couldn't afford it — because nobody I knew could afford it," shared Sam.

The pair are aiming to change that with lower-cost sliding-scale treatments — initial visits range from $40 to $65, with additional visits costing $25 to $50. Folks are invited to pay what they can, with no questions asked. "We want to be a resource for the working class in Asheville," says Megan, which is why the clinic also provides service workers with a special offer of one free treatment.

But the efforts to make acupuncture more accessible don't stop there. Sam has also created the nonprofit Acupuncture Free Clinic of Asheville to provide no-cost and donation-based services to marginalized communities.

Take a look inside

Relax in a recliner during your session. | Photo by AVLtoday

The clinic specializes in community acupuncture, with several reclining chairs in a shared open area. Each person is treated individually, but the layout provides a collective healing space and the chance for patients to self-regulate within community. And if you find yourself oh so relaxed, patients are welcome to take a cat nap during their 45-minute session in the chair.

On pins and needles waiting to schedule a session? The books are open for August, with Megan accepting appointments and walk-ins. Sam is currently seeing existing clients.