Nada protocol: Why Jodi Sta. Maria advocates for this wellness practice

Jodi Sta. Maria, a certified acupuncturist who’s also pursuing a master’s in clinical psychology, conducted research on the effectiveness of the Nada protocol in reducing stress among TV production workers. —CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

Actress Jodi Sta. Maria, currently pursuing a master’s degree in clinical psychology, is turning her focus on a group of people who often work behind the scenes but endure sky-high stress levels—TV production workers. Her goal is to find ways to ease their anxiety, even just a little.

As part of her undergraduate studies, Sta. Maria, who is also a certified acupuncturist, conducted research on the effectiveness of the Nada (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) protocol in reducing stress among TV production workers.

“The results were great,” she told Lifestyle during a recent media gathering. “The study showed that the Nada protocol, or acudetox, has a significant impact on the anxiety levels of people in TV production. The findings were consistent with existing literature, which made me really happy. I just hope more people, not just those in production, can experience its benefits. We all know how stressful our environment is, and this is something that could really help.”

Sta. Maria cohosts the show “Let’s Drink to That” with Cheena Crab (center) and AC Soriano.

Ear acupuncture

The Nada protocol is a form of ear acupuncture designed to support mental health, addiction recovery, and trauma relief. It involves inserting five tiny, sterile needles into specific points on each ear.

“My hope is that HR departments will introduce programs that offer regular Nada sessions for employees,” Sta. Maria said. “I personally use it when I’m feeling stressed—I do it at least once a week. Sometimes, I leave one bead at the back of my ear and just stimulate it whenever I need to relax.”

She added: “I really hope more people learn about this method—that was one of my study’s key recommendations. And of course, further research is needed to validate its long-term effectiveness.”

At The JSM Channel launch, everything was experiential, says Sta. Maria. Bean bags were set up for a more comfy vibe. There are also booths where guests can sample home fragrances, try out artisanal coffee and the finest tea flavors. There’s foot reflexology and acudetox sessions, too.

In February, Sta. Maria presented her paper at the Consortium of the South International Faculty Research Conference. For her, it was a memorable experience. “It was the thesis I defended in college. I’m really excited for my master’s thesis because it’s going to be an extension of this study.”

The media gathering also marked the formal relaunch of Sta. Maria’s YouTube channel—now called The JSM Channel—which started streaming on March 4. The event featured various experiential booths for guests. There was a home fragrance station, a luggage tag engraving service, artisanal coffee and fine tea tastings, foot reflexology by Visual Therapeutics Massage Clinic, and acudetox sessions by Nada Philippines.

For insomnia sufferers

“What I can guarantee is that you’ll sleep so well tonight,” Sta. Maria told those of us who tried acupuncture. “It’s effective for insomnia, as well as other behavioral health issues like anxiety, depression, and overall low mood because it stimulates the vagus nerve.”

“Everything here represents what I think it means to live light,” she added. “It’s all about experiences. We believe there’s a reason to celebrate every day.”

The JSM Channel features three distinct shows aimed at uplifting, empowering, and inspiring viewers. The first, “Live Light,” focuses on wellness and self-care.

“It was the very first show conceptualized for the channel,” she said. “It’s a platform not just for me to share my experiences, but also to learn from others through their online comments and letters. The show has a Facebook page that can serve as a support group for many people—a safe space. We also bring in subject matter experts to give insights on various topics.”

Celebrating victories

The second show, “Let’s Drink To That,” is cohosted by Cheena Crab and AC Soriano. It celebrates positivity through heartwarming stories, fun conversations, and uplifting experiences.

“When I was brainstorming content, I thought, ‘I just want something that celebrates victories, even the small ones.’ We want to restore people’s faith in humanity. At the end of the day, you realize that good things are happening all around us. And when you celebrate, you either say ‘cheers!’ or ‘let’s drink to that!’”

The third program, “JSM Travel & Tours,” reflects Sta. Maria’s passion for travel. “I love exploring different destinations—not just the popular ones but also the off-the-beaten-path gems. What sets this show apart is its public service component.”

She continued: “Originally, it was called ‘Travel With a Heart.’ At the end of every episode, we give back to a person or a community. Every time we travel, we take a piece of that place with us. I want to leave a piece of my heart there, as well.”

Beyond being her initials, JSM also stands for “Journey, Stories, and More.” “I’ve always believed that life is a journey. And the most beautiful lessons, sometimes even the most heartbreaking ones, come from that journey. They say it’s not about the destination but the experience along the way. We’re all navigating life together,” she said.

The JSM Channel is on Facebook (The JSM Channel), Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok (@thejsm_channel).