6 Reasons To Experience Auricular Acupuncture
6 Reasons
To Experience Auricular Acupuncture
Original article written in October 2019, updated December 2021
Auricular Acupuncture (AKA Ear Acupuncture) stems from Asian medicinal treatments, however, it is becoming more popular in western culture as a complementary treatment. This particular acupuncture technique is based on stimulating the cranial nerves using 5 specific acupuncture points via the outer ear. Much research has been collected, as well as, my own personal experience. And what I found is…auricular acupuncture is a MUST try… at least once in your life!
Here’s why:
1.It’s Not Intrusive
There’s no talking! Although, in counseling in-depth conversations are desired to fully understand a person it is not necessary for auricular acupuncture. Typically there is some dialogue on a superficial level, including, the clinician directing an individual when to breath in and out. Despite this, auricular acupuncture sessions do not require an in-depth discussion about your problems and history. It minimizes being emotionally exposed and vulnerable to a complete stranger.
For my private practice, I follow your lead and go at your pace.
“Hey! You don’t want to tell me details today…OK! Let’s get started on the acupuncture.”
2. Reduces Pain
According to a recent research study, auricular acupuncture helps to reduce chronic pain in the spinal column. Participants of this study were provided with questionnaires and visual temperature testing to identify their levels of pain and the impact pain has on their daily functioning. The findings indicate those who engaged in weekly auricular acupuncture treatment for at least 1.5 months had a significant increase in their ability to function and an increase tissue temperature (reduction of pain) within their spinal column.
3. Reduces Anxiety
Auricular Acupuncture is known to reduce anxiety- in fact- the first acupuncture point is specifically to promote relaxation via the sympathetic system by activating the ear sympathetic point. In a study conducted in 2001, ear acupuncture sessions were provided to adults experiencing anxiety prior to undergoing surgical procedures. Within 30 minutes of administering auricular acupuncture treatment for anxiety, the participants’ anxiety levels decreased significantly.
Related blog post: Ear Acupuncture Changed My Life
4. Improves Sleep
From my own experience, I’ve had the best sleep in years after an ear acupuncture session. A few of my clients have mentioned this as well. I share this with everyone, so I will share it with my readers…after a session of ear acupuncture, I went home to rest. The only thing I can recall is lying my head on the pillow around 6:00 PM and waking up to a bright sunny sky at 6:00 AM Now, I can’t say you will experience the same outcome as I have. But what I do know is that: 1) That was the best rest I had felt in a long time and 2) My body and mind probably needed that.
Auricular Acupuncture is helpful for insomnia and other sleep challenges.
5. Detox The Body
Ear acupuncture is often used to reduce cravings to help with weight loss as well as used in rehabilitation facilities to help reduce withdrawal symptoms from substances and alcohol. This is based on the dopamine pathways believed to lead to substance and alcohol addiction. The understanding is that acupuncture can provide a physical stimulation following the same dopamine pathways- resulting in feelings of relief and calming the overactive brain in the midst of the pain.
Related blog post: Ear Acupuncture Changed My Life
6. Easy To Access
Ear Acupuncture can be administered in various settings. Sessions can be held individually or in a group setting. This holistic treatment is an affordable out-of-pocket expense. It is used in many facilities and private practices with individuals of various economic and cultural backgrounds. Therefore, it’s more readily accessible.
Is auricular Acupuncture safe for children?
Children can receive this treatment too. Parents must provide written permission indicating this non-evasive treatment is approved. However, there are other alternatives to using needles such as seeds or beads which can be placed on the ear for approximately a week.
Have you tried auricular acupuncture before, and what were your results?
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My favorite acupuncture tools:
Thank you for reading this article. I hope you find it helpful as you continue on your wellness journey. Here are some tools that I use as a practitioner that I hope you’ll also find helpful. These are affiliate links, so if you decide to use any of them, it will continue supporting A Solution B by providing services to clients experiencing financial hardship.
Oil Diffuser: It is important to provide an environment that nurtures and is calming to my clients. My clients choose the essential oil aroma they wish to use. Next, I add water and 3 drops of essential oil to my Spa Room Pixie Diffuser. My clients enjoy this and feel empowered when they have a voice in their process.
Ear Seeds: After an acupuncture session is completed, I like to administer ear seeds. Ear seeds allow my clients to apply daily pressure onto the points activated in session. Participants can continue their care independently for about a week and a half.
If you are located near the Greater Grand Rapids Area and feel you would benefit from auricular acupuncture, Contact me today for a session.
Written By: Reynelda Jones, LMSW, CAADC, ADS
Owner and Therapist of A Solution B
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Cited Sources
Auricular Acupuncture: A Potential Treatment for Anxiety.
Wang, Shu-Ming MD *, and; Kain, Zeev N. MD* +
[Article] Anesthesia & Analgesia. 92(2):548-553, February 2001.
Moura, C. C., Iunes, D. H., Ruginsk, S. G., Souza, V., Assis, B. B., & Chaves, E. (2018). Action of ear acupuncture in people with chronic pain in the spinal column: a randomized clinical trial1. Revista latino-americana de enfermagem, 26, e3050. https://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2678.3050
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