5-Needle Point Auricular Acupuncture / AcuDetox
The 5 Needle Point Auricular Acupuncture protocol uses very small, sterile, single-use needles placed in five specific points on each ear. These points are traditionally associated with the nervous system, stress response, and emotional balance. The treatment is gentle and designed to support calm, grounding, and inner regulation.
If you prefer not to use needles, ear seeds/beads can be applied instead to stimulate the same points without puncturing the skin.
Many clients describe the experience as:
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quieting to the mind
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deeply relaxing or centering
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emotionally releasing
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grounding or “resetting”
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supportive during times of stress or transition
What a session may include
A typical session may involve:
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a brief check-in and intention setting
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explanation of the protocol and consent process
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placement of five tiny needles in each ear (or ear seeds if preferred)
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a restful quiet period for relaxation and integration
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gentle removal of needles or discussion of how to care for ear seeds
You are welcome to sit quietly, meditate, rest, or simply notice sensations. There is no “right” way to experience the session — your body and nervous system respond in the way that is most helpful for you in that moment.
Why someone might choose this protocol
People often seek NADA auricular acupuncture for supportive care during:
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stress and overwhelm
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anxiety or agitation
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difficulty relaxing or sleeping
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cravings or patterns they’re trying to shift
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periods of significant emotional intensity or life change
This protocol is commonly used as adjunctive support alongside therapy, coaching, and medical treatment.
Comfort, safety, and choice
You remain fully clothed and comfortably seated throughout the session.
You are in control at all times and may:
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ask questions
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request adjustments
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choose ear seeds instead of needles
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pause or stop the session at any point
Your comfort and sense of safety guide the entire process.
I Want to see what it’s like? Click here to watch a short video and learn more about the 5-Needle Point AcuDetox protocol. Introduction to the 5 Needle Protocol Auricular Acupuncture
Session length & scheduling expectations
To allow flexibility based on your needs:
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Initial sessions are scheduled for 60 minutes, but may not last the full hour depending on which services are used and your comfort level.
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Follow-up sessions may last 20–60 minutes, depending on the specific services provided and your goals for that visit.
We will always check in at the beginning to clarify what you’d like to focus on.
Session length & scheduling expectations
It is common to feel:
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relaxed or calm
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emotionally lighter
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more aware of sensations or emotions
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temporarily tired or reflective
Gentle aftercare suggestions:
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drink extra water
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avoid alcohol or recreational substances that day
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enjoy quiet time if you feel sensitive
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take a short walk or stretch if you feel “floaty”
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journal or reflect on anything that arose
Mild headache, tearfulness, or temporary lightheadedness may occur and usually pass within hours. Rest if needed and reach out if you have concerns.
Contraindications & safety checklist
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Please inform me before your session if you have:
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pregnancy or trying to become pregnant
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pacemaker or implanted electrical device
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active ear infection, skin breakdown, or rash on the ear
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bleeding disorder or use of strong blood thinners
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history of fainting with needles
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metal allergy
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uncontrolled seizure disorder
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recent concussion or head injury
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current fever or acute illness
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severe sound sensitivity or migraine triggered by sound
We may delay or modify treatment if:
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you are pregnant
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you have very low blood pressure
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you feel unwell the day of treatment
We will not perform ear needling if:
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there is active ear infection or open wounds
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you cannot remain safely seated
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there is known stainless-steel allergy
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Ear seeds are always an option instead of needles.