About
INSPIRATION AND MISSION
Meet Natalia Eichstaedt, L.Ac., C.SMA
Founder of Roots Wellness Center | Licensed Acupuncturist | Certified Sports Medicine Acupuncturist
Natalia's journey into acupuncture began with a deep-rooted desire to help others — to be part of a healthcare field that uses a full spectrum of healing tools to restore balance, prevent illness, and promote long-term well-being. She envisioned a practice that integrates science, movement, and ancient wisdom — and she has brought that vision to life.
Natalia began her acupuncture career in 2008 after completing her training at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego, CA. During her time there, she apprenticed at the Circle of Living clinic under the renowned Kastner Team. For four years, she immersed herself in orthopedic-focused care, working with both everyday patients and professional athletes with complex musculoskeletal conditions. It was in this hands-on environment that her passion for orthopedic and sports acupuncture truly took root.
Before entering the field of Chinese Medicine, Natalia earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Illinois in 2003, following earlier studies in Engineering from 1998 to 2002. Her unique blend of analytical thinking, business acumen, and clinical training helps shape the holistic yet grounded care she offers today.
After passing her National Board Certification, Natalia returned to her home state of Illinois and joined Elite Rehab Institute in Oak Park. There, she worked for nearly eight years alongside chiropractors, physical therapists, and massage therapists — further refining her collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to care.
In private practice now for several years, Natalia is a Certified Sports Medicine Acupuncturist and the sole practitioner at Roots Wellness Center. Her mission is to help individuals reconnect to their bodies and restore mind-body balance using a blend of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Exercise Physiology, and Western Medical principles.
In a society that is over-stressed, over-worked, and often under-cared for, Roots Wellness Center offers a healing space that brings together the best of both ancient and modern medicine.
Pictured above: Natalia lives in Western Springs with her husband Doug, and children Freddy & Annika.
EDUCATION
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2017: Matt Callison, L.Ac, C. SMA
Sports Medicine Acupuncture Certification
2014: Robin Greene, L.Ac.
Pediatric Acupuncture
2011: Battlefield Acupuncture
Nogier's Auriculotherapy
2010: Dr. Richard Teh Fu Tan
Dr. Tan's Balance Method
2008-Present: Diplomate of Oriental Medicine
National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
2010-August 2016: Elite Rehabilitation Institute in Oak Park, IL
Integrative Health Team including Chiropractors, Physical Therapists and Massage Therapists
2008-Present: State of Illinois
Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist
2008: Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Clean Needle Technique Certification
2008: Pacific College of Oriental Medicine; San Diego, California
Masters in Traditional Oriental Medicine
2004-Present: First Aid
CPR Certification and Basic First Aid Safety
2003: University of Illinois
Bachelors Business Management and Marketing
CLINICAL EXPERIENCE
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Children’s Hospital: Hematology/Oncology/Chronic Pain
San Diego Hospice and Palliative Care
Heartland Health Outreach-HIV/AIDS Clinic
Pacific Beach Homeless Clinic
Downtown Seniors/Geriatrics Clinic
Pacific College of Oriental Medicine Clinicals
San Diego Alternative Healing Network Functions
While attending Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego, Natalia worked at Circle of Living as an Acupuncture Apprentice under the guidance of Mark Kastner, L.Ac who speciliazes in Orthopedic Acupuncture and Marie Kastner, L.Ac who specializes in Wellness and Women's Health
Pictured second from the left in Nicaragua in the Spring of 2013 with students from the National University of Health Sciences.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
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2017: Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, Chicago
Treatment of Orthopedic Disorders
2013 : Natural Doctors International
Taught acupuncture students in Nicaragua and worked with Naturopaths, Nurses, Psychologists, and Massage Therapists
2016: Mentor
High School Independent Study: Oriental Medicine
Bragg Scholarship
Recipient
PROFESSIONAL APPEARENCES
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Chicagoland Area:
NBC 5 Healthy Life Expo March 2009
Chicago Green Festival, a joint project of Global Exchange and Green America May 2009
Gilda's Club, Creticos Cancer Center; Monthly Lecture Series on The role of Ancient Healing Methods and Trigger Point Therapy
Environmental Fair, Western Springs, IL October 2009
Wellness House of Hinsdale, IL; The Value of Acupuncture in Cancer Care October 2009