Results
While the treatment seems simple, the effects are often profound:
-
Reduction of tension and stress
-
Better sleep
-
More emotional peace
-
Greater sense of connection
-
Improved focus and resilience
Participant experiences
We have written testimonials—they will be sent to you, so you can take quotes from them—but they only come from the Galaxy.
"After the treatment, I felt calm for the first time in weeks. Without having to explain anything, I could just breathe." Participant in Amsterdam
"I'm sleeping better again. I didn't expect that from five little needles." Participant in Katwoude
"The circle, the silence... it felt like I wasn't alone for a moment." Participant in Haarlem
​
Would you like to help?
Our clinics are powered by volunteers. Are you an accredited acupuncturist, a student acupuncturist, or do you have another talent that could support our team? Join AWB Netherlands and contribute to recovery, peace, and connection for people in vulnerable situations.
Support our work
With your donation, we can reach more people, fund materials, and continue to provide relaxation and recovery in places where it's most needed. Every contribution—small or large—makes a difference.
AWB NL TEAM LEADERS
AWB (U.S.) BOARD MEMBERS
Tran Nam-Thu
Secretary
Houston, TX
Walter Bosque
Member
NY, NY
Beth Nugent
Vice President
Glen Cove, NY
AWB Board Members do not receive remuneration
ABOUT US
At AWB Netherlands, we offer free acupuncture clinics for people staying in emergency shelters. We do this in places where rest and recovery are desperately needed. With a dedicated team of accredited acupuncturists, student acupuncturists, and motivated volunteers from various fields, we typically organize on-site sessions twice a week.
Our clinics currently take place in:
-
Amsterdam
-
Katwoude
-
Haarlem
-
Utrecht
-
Schagen
Our Approach
We work in open spaces where we create our "Healing Circle"—a circle of chairs where participants can sit whenever they wish. After a brief discussion about the treatment and recording some information, our acupuncturists insert the needles: usually five in each ear, according to the NADA protocol.
​
What is the NADA Protocol?
The NADA Protocol (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) is a globally used treatment method that uses five fixed points in the ear. These points help reduce stress, anxiety, insomnia, and trauma. The treatment is safe, simple, and works without anyone having to talk about what happened to them.
In addition to the NADA protocol, we also use the Battlefield Protocol or the High Five Protocol where appropriate, each of which has its own strengths in supporting people with stress and trauma
​
Why this approach works
What makes our approach unique is that we treat not from the story, but from the person. We assume that everyone in this situation has a background of loss, displacement, or significant change.
The treatment invites rest – in silence, without judgment. We deliberately choose a circular arrangement of chairs. This creates connection and a sense of safety. People from different countries, religions, and cultures sit next to each other, each with their own story, but in the same moment of stillness and healing. We call this our Healing Circle.
The treatment lasts approximately 30 minutes. Many return regularly because they find that it helps them feel more relaxed, safe, and balanced.