Anne-Louise Smallen, Lic. Acu.
Addiction to, or dependence upon, any substance can be helped by acupuncture, as acupuncture has the ability to minimize withdrawal symptoms and psychologically support internal changes. Great successes are claimed by acupuncture in the reduction of withdrawal symptoms from alcohol, cigarettes, narcotics, and for eating disorders and weight management. It has become an important medical support in the treatment of addiction, including food addiction, along with diet and psychological support. From my own clinical experience, I have found that approaching a problem or an illness from multiple angles always helps healing.
Acupuncture helps to release analgesic substances such as endorphins found in many body tissues like the brain, pituitary glands, adrenal glands, and gastrointestinal system. They move to the different organs through blood circulation. These analgesic substances reduce the need for outside substances by attaching to pain receptors as the body produces them naturally. Serotonin levels are also increased through acupuncture and increase tone in the stomach muscle serving also as a natural antidepressant. The feeling of well being that people derive from acupuncture enhances their effort to change their habits.
Acupuncture also helps detoxify the body from the side effects of medication, which does have its uses and can be necessary, but can also be toxic to the body. It does so through the process of homeostasis, which can be defined as the optimal functioning of an organism. When we treat someone to reduce taking a substance with acupuncture, the body naturally balances the substance and eliminates surplus, keeping the amount necessary to help the healing process. Homeostasis is a natural function of the body simply enhanced by acupuncture.
Spring is also a great time of year for general detoxification and "cleaning out the system" from the winter, so this would also be very beneficial if you feel like you need an extra boost to help you feel lighter and more clear and energized for Spring.
If you are struggling to stop smoking, drinking, bingeing or if you feel not at ease with the increasing amount of medication you take for pain, sleep, or anxiety, you might benefit from regular acupuncture treatments.
On Thursday mornings in May - 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31st, we will dedicate two hours of our clinic to detoxification using proven auricular (ear) acupuncture (NADA protocol for alcohol, smoking and medication addictions or food addiction protocol for eating disorders) and two other standard leg and arm points. In order to accommodate those who work, the clinic will open at 8 am, and this type of treatment will be administered until 10 am. We are offering a special of all 5 Detox Treatments for $100, or you may purchase a treatment separately at $25/visit.
Thursdays, 8-10am
May 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31st
with Anne-Louise
Special Package Discount: $100 for all 5 Detox Treatments, or $25/visit
