It is well known that acupuncture is an effective treatment for many health complaints. It manipulates the vast meridian system, balances the electrical fields, and integrates the functions of the various organs. One of its most effective applications is for any kind of chemical dependency, whether it be creamy desserts, cigarettes or cocaine! In my practice, I use herbs, massage, and special tuning points on the body. In particular, points on the ear are stimulated because the ear is like a computer keyboard for the brain, an external outcropping through which we can program the brain centers for appetite control, balancing metabolism, and eliminating depression and addiction.

One of the major ear points for this purpose is Shen Men or "the Door of the Spirit," a point that can open our spirit or emotional center. Research has shown that it helps to restore the normal release of endorphins, the chemical receptor sites that are found everywhere in the body which give us a sense of wellbeing. They are responsive to many stimulants in life, both healthy and unhealthy. Often we hear of a "runner's high." But in the case of a smoker or even a "foodaholic," these chemicals are "locked up" and dependent on the "fix" (of nicotine, drugs, alcohol, or sugar) in order to be released. Once certain points are stimulated, the patient begins to feel a sense of deep relaxation, and the endorphins can begin to be released normally. So he loses that nervous build-up that triggers the need for a cigarette. The chemical addiction is gone. Furthermore, acupuncture helps the body to detoxify from the adverse effects of accumulated tars and nicotine. Patients often report "feeling like a new person." The number of treatments required varies from patient to patient but often only three treatments are necessary.

Some people are able to quit smoking "cold turkey." But frequently, former smokers will still crave cigarettes years later because their endorphins were never normalized. So it is important to induce a deep state of relaxation in the patient during the treatment. In that way, the "reward" or "consolation" of smoking, alcohol, overeating or drug taking is neutralized. You already feel full, complete. Through breathing exercises, we are enabled to feel the alpha waves in the brain, and the sensation of our liquidy, airy protoplasmic molecules.

The body and mind feel good again and free of dependency!