NADA AcuDetox is a non-verbal approach to healing that involves the gentle placement of up to five small, sterilized disposable needles into a specific site on each ear. The recipients sit quietly listening to relaxing and healing music in a singular or group setting for 30-45 minutes. The five point ear acupuncture protocol is used for the treatment in, overall stress reduction, depression, anxiety, addictions, mental health, disaster & emotional trauma, and abstinence from substance abuse.
Benefits after a treatment? Patients reported significant benefits including improvement in depression, anxiety, anger, impaired concentration, problems with energy and headaches/body aches, reduced cravings for alcohol and drugs, including nicotine, increased calmness, better sleep, and less agitation, relief from stress and emotional trauma, easier connection with counseling, a discovery of quiet and inner strength.
NADA style treatment is meant to integrate with other Western behavioral health modalities enhancing opportunities for success.
The Five Points:
Sympathetic: Balances the sympathetic nervous system, has a strong analgesic (pain relief) and relaxant effect upon internal organs. Reduces epinephrine/norepinephrine levels for relaxation. Calms the spirit, provides for serenity (yin).
Shen Men (spirit gate): Alleviates pain, tension, excessive sensitivity; reduces hypertension. Calms the mind and relieves anxiety, depression, insomnia and restlessness. Opens connection to spirit (one's heart); ability to love self and others.
Kidney Point: Stimulates physiologic and hormonal functions. Influences mental state and happiness, relieves fear. Reminds the client of his or her will and intention to overcome the addictions; allows the client to hear the positive.
Liver Point: Stimulates physiologic and hormonal functions; relieves muscle cramps. Aids in clear thinking and decision making; relieves frustration, depression, anger. Helps clients connect with their internal self and find direction in life.
Lung Point: Lung is an important organ for detoxification; regulates pores. Aids in regulation of grief/sadness; improves sense of connection and self respect and integrity. Reminds client of their connection with heaven and provides inspiration.
ABOUT NADA Mission Statement: The National Acupuncture Detoxification Association is a not for profit training and advocacy organization that encourages community wellness through the use of a standardized auricular acupuncture protocol for behavioral health, including addictions, mental health, and disaster & emotional trauma. We work to improve access and effectiveness of care through promoting policies and practices which integrate NADA-style treatment with other Western behavioral modalities.
History: Starting in 1974, the staff and other professionals associated with the South Bronx's Lincoln Recovery Center spent 10 years developing the basic five ear-point NADA protocol for the treatment of addiction using the diagnostic tools of experience and trial and error. They determined a need for a national-level organization to expand training capacity and awareness of the value of acupuncture as a tool for recovery. Incorporated in 1985 in the state of New York, the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association has helped spread AcuDetox nationally and internationally.