What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture treats the body as an 'energy system' (see also Acupressure, Chi Kung, Reiki) and is based on ensuring that the energy flows throughout the body are not unbalanced, or 'blocked'.

Chinese medicine calls this energy in the body "chi" or "qi" (pronounced chee). They believe that 'chi' flows need balancing in order to ensure a healthy body and mind. This energy (chi) travels through the body via 'meridians', or energy channels.

Each, or any, of these meridians can become blocked, or congested when someone is unwell. In order to make to restore health, the body's energy flows must be treated.

This is done by inserting hair thin acupuncture needles into these meridians, or rather into acupuncture points (acupoints) along them.

This stimulates that particular acupoint, to re-balance the energy flow through it. This serves to increase, regulate and balance the flow of energy in the body. This unblocks the congested energy paths and brings the body's energy balance back into harmony, thus restoring the health of the patient.

There are over 360 acupoints located along the meridians. Acupuncture is now becoming a recognised and frequently used treatment throughout the Western world.

In fact the World Health Organization currently cites over one hundred different conditions treatable with acupuncture. Tell the Acupuncturist if you are pregnant.

Click here to read why an acupuncturist will ask to look at your tongue.

Click here to find a qualified practitioner.