Jill McCubbin-Clare The decision to quit smoking is an important one to make. Not only is it the right decision, but it is one that requires commitment and dedication. If you’re a smoker and want to quit smoking, then acupuncture may help you stick to that decision. Acupuncture treatments become most effective for those who are serious about their decision to quit smoking. You may have tried to quit a number of times and found yourself to struggle. They key is not to give up. Maybe you just needed better tools to help you along the way. Give acupuncture a try and see how it can lead to a positive change in your life.
What to expect with your acupuncture treatments
When it comes to acupuncture and smoking cessation, the most common technique is Auricular acupuncture. Basically, this technique involves inserting very thin needles along the outer portion of the ear, or the auricle. The ear is known to contain a number of therapeutic points as starting points that are connected with acupoints in the body. Once these acupoints are stimulated, the needles send impulses in the brain that help regulate internal organs, relieve joint and muscle pains, and reduce cravings.
Your acupuncturist may interview you to learn more about your smoking habits. In addition, your pulse, blood pressure, and tongue will be assessed. This information will help the acupuncturist provide you with a customized treatment plan. Because every smoker has different habits and different health histories, it is often more helpful to have a treatment plan that is specific to their needs. In addition to acupuncture treatments, your acupuncturist may recommend dietary changes, lifestyle changes, and Chinese herbs as ways to complement your treatments. When you’re trying to quit smoking, it is best to use a number of sources of support to help you along the way. Your smoking habit may be attributing to other habits affecting your overall health. By altering these habits, you are leading the way to a smoke free and healthier life!
How the treatments help you to quit
It is recommended that you start your acupuncture treatments before you quit smoking. Early treatments will allow help you to avoid the unpleasant side effects of nicotine withdrawal. Also, your dependency on nicotine may be reduced before you actually quit.
Acupuncture treatments have been found to be widely effective in curbing nicotine cravings. When the appropriate acupoints have been stimulated, the increased release of endorphins help the body to relax and relieve anxiety. Many smokers choose to smoke to relieve stress. But with this increased number of endorphins, you may find that you won’t need that harmful form of stress relief. The increased endorphins can also help alleviate the withdrawal symptoms.
When you’re ready to quit smoking, know that you can always get help in the process. If you’d like to learn more about how my acupuncture treatments can help you achieving this goal, then feel free to contact me to book a complimentary 15-minute consultation session!
