Smoking is a world wide addiction. Many people find it extremely hard to quit smoking after they have started. They stop smoking, then start again, quit, then start again. Sometimes people feel hopeless with their addiction because just like alcohol, it is everywhere. Even though many countries are enforcing rules such as no-smoking areas, non-smoking restaurants, or no smoking rules in front of public places, people still find a way to keep their addiction going strong.
There have been over the counter gimmicks and medications for cessation of smoking such as Nicorette gum, and Nicorette patches, but these methods do not seem to work for very long. Before an individual knows it, they are back with a smoke in the hand only because they smelt another smoke, or were offered one. No one said it was easy to quit, but if an individual has their heart set on terminating this addiction and needs some help, acupuncture might be the best approach. After all, it can only improve the situation more than it already is.
Acupuncture has been used for many centuries to provide relief of pain, suffering, mental anguish, and now addictions. It is not really used that much by smokers who want to quit, but this might be because they are not aware of its amazing health benefits. It is an effective approach and there are no side effects to deal with. People spend so much money on ‘How to Quit Smoking’ programs and medications. They may provide certain benefits, but do they help maintain as a non-smoker? Acupuncture is a procedure that provides relief and maintenance to people who want to quit for good.
With acupuncture, the acupuncturist applies and inserts tiny, thin needles into acupressure points that are needed to be targeted for the smoking condition. The needles come in different sizes and lengths, and they stimulate the energy of the body. In Chinese medicine, it is believed that when the energy of the body is blocked, the individual will feel pain and suffering. When released through acupuncture techniques, the person will feel relief from the condition they suffer from. In this case the condition is addiction to nicotine and the habit. For smoking cessation, the needles are usually inserted into the targeted areas that are affected by smoking such as the respiratory system, mouth, and lungs. Tobacco cravings also come from the brain, which can be targeted through other parts of the body. It has been proven that individuals that use acupuncture as a smoking cessation therapy have a much better chance at quitting smoking than people who try programs, and over the counter medications.
A smoker will have to visit the acupuncturist at least twice a week for four weeks to really get over the habit and cravings. Most likely the smoker will be taught self acupressure techniques such as pressure on the ears. This will guarantee the reinforcements of the acupuncture treatment and provide craving relief. The acupuncturist might suggest that the individual attends supports groups along with the therapy to truly quit for the long term.
