We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristen Frost and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Kristen, what principle do you value most?
Compassion, the primary principle behind all my work in both professional and personal endeavors. Compassion has the ability to disarm others, meet individuals where they are in a given time and space, as well as create a connection that transcends the dogmas of religion, politics, socio-economic status and beyond. The part of my being that reflexively smiles at strangers, holds a hug longer than some may like, and spends extra time with those in need comes from a deep rooted understanding of the power of caring. I feel strongly that in todays fast paced, seemingly disconnected world, a resurgence of compassion is called for. When we heal individually, the collective heals as well. As my own journey ebbs and flows through the celebrations and challenges of life, I can only do my best to better each day and bring that sense of compassion to all I know, those I treat, and to myself as well.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Acupuncture! Let’s talk about it! I came to acupuncture after years of working in Western driven medical communities, where the question often arose, “is there something else we can be doing for our patients?” The answer to that question was the immersion of East Asian medicine into the traditional Western paradigms. While this comes with its own unique set of challenges, those who have found the power of acupuncture are changing the story for the rest of us. The road to practitionership is long and rigorous, yet oh so rewarding! Early schooling brings one to cognitive dissonance, separation and sacrifice from those you love, coupled with a sense of excitement. After years of didactic and clinical coursework you are done, for now, This arduous process culminates with national and state licensure. Now, what? I chose to work privately while exploring all options in my profession. Stone Lotus Acupuncture was born out of a desire to change the landscape of how we view medicine. Beginning a small business practice can be challenging, at times overwhelming, and I had to remind myself to capture the spark again! Remembering to fall in love with the art, science and humility of acupuncture grounds me and invigorates me on days when the challenges seem to much to overcome. Partnering with established practitioners has made the current iteration of Stone Lotus Acupuncture something I am proud and humbled by. The countless people I am able to reach and guide on their healing journey has been immensely rewarding. I hope to continue my practice into retirement many, many years from now and can look back fondly on the work, but lets be honest, the key to any success story is the individual, and here, that individual is YOU! Your body has a profound, innate ability to heal itself and my gently persuasion is 49% and your 51%, the unique, the special, the one and only you is what tips the scale.
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?
As a Chicagoan, coming to Denver, the list of “must see and do” from friends was lengthy! Now, I find myself sharing those same gems with family and friends coming to visit, with my husband for our staycation getaways and with myself when I need a little R&R. Calling Chicago home for most of my life, food is always a priority! Hard to beat those mouthwatering deep dish pizzas, Italian beef sandwiches, and unique cuisine in all the neighborhoods of the city. BUT, Angelo’s Taverna on 6th has been a favorite since moving here, you might also find me across the way at Don’s for a nightcap because acupuncture is all about balance, wink! wink! Have you been to Maria Empanada on S. Broadway? Yum! While you’re in the neighborhood, stop by Adrift for Tiki inspired cocktails. Happy hour calls for Postino with their amazing small bites and approachable wine menu, date night is Guard and Grace (try the grilled octopus!) and dessert is anywhere with chocolate and coffee. I’m a sucker for a good cup of Joe anytime of day. With so many more places to dine and drink, I’ll wait to hear your recommendations when you come to see me. And on to the adventure seeking we go! Music and food have always played a role in my happiest memories, and there is something for each mood here in Colorado. I can be found swaying among the stones of Red Rocks for just about any band, at Temple dancing until I’m the only one left on the floor, or sitting around a campfire in Bailey, Blackhawk, Silverton, Durango, or my own backyard with some streaming tunes and good friends. I met my husband on a rafting trip, so the chilly, raging waters of the Colorado hold a special place in my heart. Our annual trip satisfies the craving to be on the water, and when the boat flipped in the Royal Gorge canyon, I revisited my desire for those trips. Ask me about it next time I see you! I have learned to love all things Colorado has to offer and truly feels so fortunate to have found friends, colleagues and love under the starry skies outlined by mountains.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are countless individuals who have supported me, laughed and cried with me, and in some way offered themselves to my journey and my success. To all my mountain mamas, you have created a tremendous community filled with adventure, excitement, curiosity and kindness. Your love has fueled my fire and I’m honored to know each and every one of you! To my husband and step-daughter, you gracefully allowed me to practice my skills on you when I barely knew how to hold a needle and now you proudly share a love of all things acupuncture with everyone you meet, my biggest fans, my loves! And not to be forgotten, my parents. Although you were unsure when I made a career change, later in life, your enthusiasm and encouragement brightened my darkest days when I doubted my choices, your words replayed in my head “you can do anything, we are so proud of you.”
Website: www.stonelotusacupuncture.com
Instagram: @stonelotusacupuncture
Facebook: Stone Lotus Acupuncture
Image Credits
Amber Boutwell Photography (headshot) all other photos were taken by me