About Melanie Diana: Mel Diana was born in Washington, D.C., but has called Pittsboro home for the last six years. Her practice at Chatham Wellness Center focuses on Chinese medicine and includes acupuncture and Chinese herbology. “What is most important to me,” she says, “is to honor patients wherever they are on their journey.” She also uses Tong Ren and Ki treatments, and is a certified provider of Hospice and Palliative Care Acupuncture. Mel is a graduate of Harrisburg Academy, Hartwick College and the New England School of Acupuncture.
What’s unique about what you do for a living?
The term unique doesn’t resonate for me. Rather, I simply feel guided as a “conduit” for healing.
What was your first paying job, and what did it teach you?
Lifeguard — responsibility.
What’s the most difficult job you’ve ever had?
As an Air Force medic, working in the intensive (special) care unit.
What advice would you give someone considering doing the same line of work as you?
Follow your heart and intuition.
Who is your personal hero?
My grandmother
Your standard order at a coffee shop?
Cafe Americano
Your ultimate “happy place”?
Bodysurfing in the ocean.
Life on other planets? Yes or no?
Yes
Stay up late or get up early?
Get up early
Least favorite saying, and why you don’t like it:
“Killing two birds with one stone.” I am very mindful in my wording and what I put out to the universe. This statement feels violent and makes no sense.
Dogs or cats?
Dogs
What habit would you most like to break?
Sugar
What’s the most amazing thing about you that most people wouldn’t have guessed?
I LOVE football.
What makes your home special?
Serene and filled with love.
Who was the best teacher (in school or at work) you ever had, and why?
My brother. He was/is so patient with me.
Your strongest trait:
Living “my” truth.
The book you’re currently reading:
The Reluctant Shaman by Kay Cordell Whitaker
If money weren’t an object, but you still had to work, what would your job be?
What I am doing now — Chinese Medicine.
One day, when you have time, what would you like to learn how to do?
To play the drums.
The most famous person you’ve ever met:
Hillary Clinton
If you had lots of money to give away, you’d give most of it to:
Greyhound Rescue, Rain Forest Network
Biggest pet peeve?
People not recycling.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Trust the process; everything is a stepping stone.
What’s the most important thing your job has taught you?
To honor people wherever they are on their journey.
For more information, go to www.meldiana.com or call 401-451-7210.