Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Jo Accardi.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
When I was 19, my uncle introduced me to herbal medicine and I remember feeling such relief and excitement about it because I always knew something like that existed, but I had never heard of it before. Growing up, in a family with severe health issues on both sides, I was frustrated with the holes in the care they had received and I knew there had to be a way to have more autonomy and empowerment regarding our role in our own health. I began studying plant medicine, making my own botanical blends and attending horticulture school to learn everything about plants from the ground up! When I discovered Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, I was astonished, and immediately knew that was what I was meant to do in this life.
I moved to Seattle to attend one of the world’s leading institutions for Natural Medicine, Bastyr University, where I earned a Master’s Degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in 2006. As a lifelong cook and veteran of 20+ years of working in the restaurant and hospitality field, I was immediately drawn to Chinese Medical Nutrition as a vehicle for creating your best health and recovering from chronic conditions.
Today, I am a Restorative Diets expert and I help people make incredible improvements in their health, notably, chronic digestive disorders, auto immune conditions, anxiety and emotional strength. I work primarily with driven professionals, and the number one thing I hear from my clients is “Thank you for giving me my life back” — which brings me to tears every time!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
As with any dream, there are many ups and downs. I worked full time while I was in school, took out big loans to pay for it, and moved to a new city where I didn’t know anyone. But what I DID know is that nothing had ever struck me so deeply and I knew I had what it takes to pursue my dreams successfully.
I was raised by a single mom, my father struggled with addiction and mental health issues, and I am the first person in my family to have a Master’s degree. Although I came from humble beginnings, I never let that define what was possible for where I’m going. Once you say ‘yes’ to the big, exciting and somewhat scary goal, you grow so much that you no longer fit back into a smaller role you once held.
To all the young women out there, my greatest piece of advice is to never let anything or anyone define you. People only see things from their own perspective, and their own fears, so only take in the advice and insight that resonates with your best and highest self, and let the rest go. Your heart always knows the way.
We’d love to hear more about Flourish Boston.
I am a licensed Acupuncturist, Nutrition Specialist and Chinese Medicine Practitioner. In my acupuncture practice, I support my clients with acupuncture, customized botanical medicine, restorative nutrition, transformative breathwork and lifestyle counseling. I specialize in digestive issues, auto immune conditions, trauma recovery and emotional strength, because no illness comes without dietary dysfunction, emotional turmoil and lifestyle disruption.
I provide what is most needed in healthcare today, which is re-humanizing illness and recovery, empowering my clients to take the right steps to improve, and helping them reclaim real food as a foundation for real health.
My brand’s mission is to evolve public perception of Acupuncture and of medicine, itself. We don’t need more pills, we need more love, care and attention on the best part of ourselves, not to mention a bit of support to stay on track with the right trajectory.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
I’m frankly inspired by ALL women. First, my mom. She raised me by herself in a small town, and while we didn’t have a lot, she taught me how to be a good, and strong, person. She also taught me how to cook — my most valued skill.
In terms of women in popular culture, Oprah is always the first woman who comes to mind. She is such a big part my generation and she continues to show women that so much is possible if you are willing to work for it, nurture your dreams and never back down.
I also love and appreciate all of the visionary female chefs, farmers, and food producers who promote wholesome foods and the preservation of food ways that serve humans well. They have fought hard to have a name for themselves in a predominantly male industry. A few who come to mind: Julia Child, Alice Waters, Irma Rombauer, Julee Rosso and Sheila Lukins of The Silver Palate, Sally Fallon, Laura Chanel, Sue Conley and Peggy Smith of Cowgirl Creamery, and local rockstars, Barbara Lynch, Ana Sortun, Joanne Chang and Kristin Canty.
Contact Info:
- Address: 11 Beacon St.
Suite 520
Boston, MA 02108 - Website: flourishboston.com
- Instagram: @flourisheternal
Image Credit:
Brian Samuels @myfoodthoughts
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