Acupuncture is a holistic therapy
that has been used for over 5,000 years in China. It is still frequently the treatment of choice for more than one-third of
the world's population. The philosophy of this therapy is based on energy, often referred to as "Qi", or the essence
of life. This energy applies to all things however large or small, from the universe to an atom or living cell. It describes
an interrelationship, as each part communicates and is interconnected to the whole. This Eastern medical model represents
a complex interpretation of mind/body health and organ function beyond that of anatomical structure. It is thought that
this network of energy flows through the body in specific channels called "meridians" and can be evaluated through
"acupoints" on the skin surface. These meridians and acupoints can give information about energy circulation and
relating internal body functioning. Stress, illness, and injury can cause imbalance in the system, affecting energy flow,
organ function, and general well-being. When energy can flow without obstruction, the body experiences vibrant health, mental
clarity, and emotional calm. Acupuncture is an art and a science, directed toward rebalancing a optimizing personal energy
flow to aid health and healing.
