Acupuncture is a very effective tool that enables you to quit addictions by minimizing cravings, calming the nervous system and strengthening will power. Acupuncture will assist and work only if the person is ready to quit and willing to commit to the process.
Acupuncture works by stimulating the release of body chemicals which intercept the messages sent by the brain to the body that demand more drugs, thereby disrupting the addictive process. It can decrease the cravings, but not the habit. Generally, for a smoking addiction, the acupuncture treatment reduces cravings from about 20 cigarettes to only 3-5 a day. It is the individual's responsibility to make it through those few cravings, which I will discuss in greater detail at the initial appointment.
The program requires you to make a commitment to a block of ten treatments. The treatment starts with the patient recieving a daily treatment for the first week and then a session every two or three days for the second and third week. If a patient requires more treatments to this block they are entitled to this as a guarantee. This consecutive treatment plan is highly important because the first 24 hours are critical. For example; if a patient refrains from smoking in the first 24 hours they are 90% more likely to give up. The continuous treatment stimulates endorphin levels to help overcome cravings during the withdrawal process.
Acupuncture works best if the person is in a detox state therefore to ensure the best possible outcomes you must refrain from smoking upon awakening, or for at least five hours before the initial treatment. To begin with, it is advantageous to set a morning appointment where possible.
After the first few treatments, the focus becomes wellness, so differential diagnosis and constitutional work is appropriate.
I recommend monthly treatments for four to six months, although this is not mandatory. There are a lot of triggers that can cause relapse. Cigarettes or drugs can act as a shield to insulate uncomfortable feelings and situations. A new non-smoker can feel vulnerable and confused when trying to handle a stressful situation. Monthly treatments provide support and bring the person back into harmony.