5 Points Ear Acupuncture- NADA Protocol
NADA PROTOCOL
5 Points Ear Acupuncture- NADA Protocol
This blog was updated in December 2022. Updated April 2025 to include resource links.
How Ear Acupuncture & the NADA Protocol Can Reduce Stress, Cravings & Improve Mood
Why Ear Acupuncture Matters Now
In the last acupuncture blog article, I shared reasons you should experience Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture. However, it was during my training with the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA), I was informed not only will I learn the technique but also a brief history of the 5 point NADA Protocol.
A Brief History of Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been identified as one of the world’s oldest medical procedures. Throughout the years Eastern Physicians continually work to perfect the technique. Eastern medicine identifies the human body as a singular system, which consists of twelve main meridians comprised of energy “Qi”. In a healthy body system these meridians are balanced and energy flows appropriately within them. Alternatively, when there is a disruption in the system the energy that once flowed freely and balanced is interrupted, causing various issues such as mental health disorders, illnesses, dis-ease and trauma responses.
The Healing History Behind NADA
The NADA Protocol not only has clinical roots, but also a powerful history of use in major trauma events
NADA states the following findings:
There is abundant documentation by NADA ADSs and RTs on the anecdotal use of the NADA protocol in disaster relief work that is detailed in the NADA publications guide points …ADSs assisted first responders by providing NADA treatment in the aftermath of 9/11 World Trade Center’s attack and Hurricane Katrina. After the 2011 Joplin, MO, tornado disaster, 700 treatments were provided to offer relief from trauma…Overwhelmingly positive results were realized with reported benefits including reduction in physical pain and improved sleep
(Bursac, 2011)
(Carter, K., & Olshan-Perlmutter, M. (2014). NADA Protocol. Journal of Addictions Nursing, 25(4), 182-187. doi:10.1097/jan.0000000000000045)
Related post:Got S tress?Got Problems? Get Reiki!
How Ear Acupuncture Works in a Session
In Session
The NADA protocol is a holistic treatment, non-verbal approach to healing that involves the placement of up to five small, sterilized disposable needles into specific sites on each ear. The recipients sit quietly in a individual setting for 5-30 minutes or group setting for 30-45 minutes.
In addition to addiction recovery, auricular acupuncture is frequently used to support smoking cessation, weight loss, PTSD, and generalized anxiety and stress.
Pro Tip: Many of my clients also pair acupuncture with the Holiday Survival Plan to maintain balance during stressful seasons or Challenging Moments Writing Exercise, a simple prompt-based tool for deep reflection.
The Mental and Physical Benefits of Auricular Acupuncture
Other Benefits of Auricular Acupuncture
• Reduced cravings,
• Increased calmness, and less agitation,
-Better sleep,
• Relief from stress and emotional trauma,
• An easier connection with counseling,
• A discovery of inner quiet and strength, and
• Reduction in the need for pharmaceuticals
This gentle but powerful practice helps regulate the nervous system and support emotional wellness from the inside out.
The Five Points of the NADA Protocol
Each ear contains these five powerful points:
The Autonomic Point calms the nervous system and helps with overall relaxation;
the Shen Men or "spirit gate," which reduces anxiety and nervousness;
the Kidney Point, for reducing aggression, calming fears and healing internal organs;
the Liver Point for detoxification, blood purification, and to suppress aggression; and
the Lung Point, which promotes aeration and helps reduce grief.
Related post: Ear Acupuncture Changed My Life
Summary
NADA not only utilizes historical outcomes but also continues to provide updated research to explore the benefits of the 5 Point Acudetox technique. Benefits include but are not limited to, increased calmness, the treatment of anxiety and depression, and the reduction of food, illicit substances and alcohol cravings.
Start Your Healing Journey with Support
If you are interested in utilizing this service at A Solution B, it should be noted the needles are left in the ear for 5-30 minutes. Most people do not feel the needle being inserted, but it is usually not more than a quick pinch (5 seconds or less) if they do feel it.
Ready to Feel Grounded, Calm, and Clear Again?
Your healing doesn’t have to wait. Whether you're curious about the calming power of ear acupuncture, looking for a safe space to explore therapy, or want simple, proven tools to start feeling better today—you're in the right place.
Try a NADA Ear Acupuncture Session – A gentle, restorative treatment to support stress, anxiety, and burnout (yes, even for non-clients).
Start Therapy – If you're ready for deeper emotional healing with someone who gets it, Book an Intake session today.
Not Quite Ready? Grab the Burnout Recovery Starter Kit – a free email series packed with actionable tools to help you begin your recovery, one step at a time.
You don’t have to do this alone. Stay connected to take the first step toward feeling more like you again.
Shop This Blog: Wellness Tools & Resources
Recommended Wellness Tools I Personally Use:
Thank you for reading this article. I hope you find it helpful as you continue on your wellness journey. These are my go-to tools during and after sessions. Some links are affiliate links, which help me offer sliding scale options to clients in need…but these are all items I personally use and recommend.
Oil Diffuser: Providing a nurturing and calming environment matters. Clients choose the essential oil aroma and/or combination they wish to use. Then, I simply add 3 drops of essential oil in water and push the on button. The Spa Room Pixie Diffuser may be small, but it has such an impact.
Ear Seeds: After an acupuncture session, I like administering ear seeds. This helps continue care after treatment.
Looking for holistic practitioners near you? Read our updated guide to Holistic Providers in Grand Rapids.
Join the Conversation:
Have you ever tried acupuncture? What helped you the most during a stressful time? Share your experience in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!
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Written by: Reynelda Jones, LMSW, ADS
Owner and Therapist of A Solution B
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