Need help for Stoptober? Try Acupuncture

If you can give up smoking for 28 days then you’re 5 times more likely to stay smoke free, according to the research. Hence Stoptober, the 28-day challenge to quit smoking.

If you’re taking part, and you need a little help, consider acupuncture to give you a boost.

Acupuncture has been used to help with stopping smoking since the late 70s when a treatment protocol was designed for use with addiction, and has been popular with smokers wanting to give up ever since. It works mainly by enhancing detoxification and reducing cravings and stress and anxiety levels.

People sometimes report that after an acupuncture treatment for stopping smoking the thought of a cigarette makes them feel ill, or that if they smoke they dislike the taste and put the cigarette out. The acupuncture treatment is individualized, so any other symptoms that arise over the course of treatment, e.g. hunger, irritability or sleep problems can also be addressed.

Research indicates that over 75% of people having acupuncture successfully quit smoking by the end of treatment. Like all treatments aimed at smoking cessation, it is essential that the person truly wants to quit if long term success is to be achieved.

You can either have a 1-off session to give you a bit of help along the way, or have a short course (say, 3 or 4) if you feel you need some more support.

LINKS:

Stoptober – NHS site with lots of help and support. It’s not too late to join the challenge!
Bristol Acupuncture – More information about acupuncture, and my UK practice.