We're excited to introduce you to Ali Warters, one of our licensed acupuncturists here at Vital Qi. Ali is a portrait artist and brings this creative spirit and openness into her acupuncture treatments. We are lucky to have her on the team!

What inspired you to become an acupuncturist?
Before becoming an acupuncturist, I worked for many years as a portrait artist. That work taught me how to pay close attention—to notice nuance, to hold space, and to connect with people in quiet, meaningful ways. Over time, I started to desire something more hands-on, something that could support people not just emotionally or symbolically, but physically and energetically. Acupuncture felt like a natural extension of my creative work—another way of studying people closely, holding them with care, and helping them return to balance. I still consider myself an artist, and that lens continues to shape how I practice medicine.

What’s one thing you love most about working at Vital Qi?
I love witnessing the quiet, powerful shifts that happen when people begin to feel better—when sleep comes easier, breathing deepens, or someone feels truly seen. There’s something sacred about holding space for that kind of healing. I also really value the sense of community that grows in the clinic—being surrounded by people who are all showing up to care for themselves, and for one another, in meaningful ways.

How do you like to unwind or recharge outside of the clinic?
I love spending time walking with my sweetheart and our pups, tending to the garden, or getting out on the water in a kayak. Creative projects are a big part of how I recharge too—whether I’m sewing, painting, or just getting lost in a good puzzle or a board game. Being outside, making things with my hands, and laughing with the people I love—that’s what fills me back up.

What’s your favorite restaurant or food spot in town?
Depends what I’m in the mood for, and Richmond has something for everything. Balkan Restaurant, Pho Tay Do, Susie’s Delicatessen Little Nickel, Ruang Tong, Beijing on Grove… how do I choose one?! I’m certain I’ve forgotten to name a few.

Fun fact most people don’t know about you?
My name Ali is short for Alice, I only wear black, crew-cut socks, and one of my proudest moments was seeing one of my paintings hang next to an Andy Warhol. It was completely surreal—and a reminder that sometimes the quiet work you do at home can take you to unexpected places.