So what is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a valuable form of medical treatment that has grown into a complete natural health care system.
Acupuncturists and Chinese medicine practitioners have used this non-intrusive method to help countless people become healthy and stay vibrant.
Acupuncture encourages natural healing.
It can help a patient recover from illness and support the immune system, as well as boost physical and emotional aspects of health to improve overall function and well-being.
It is a safe, painless and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.
What is Qi and how does it work with acupuncture?
At the root of acupuncture is the system of Qi (“chee”) which is an important energy that moves through the body.
Qi and Acupuncture
Qi vitalizes the human body and acts as a protection from pain, disease or illnesss. One's health is affected by the amount and quality of Qi and how it's balanced in the body.
Most of the time, when Qi is disrupted, it can rebalance quickly, however if the Qi is blocked for a long time or in an excessive way problems can occur and lead to illnesses or even greater health problems.
Movement of Qi
The meridians are paths in the body through which Qi flows. The body has fourteen primary meridians. Each one of the meridians correlates to an organ or gland in the body.
The force of Qi moves through the meridians like water flows in a river. The water flowing in a river brings sustenance to plants, lands and people. This is similar to the path of meridians which carry Qi to all parts of the body including the cells, glands, organs, muscles and tissue.
What can go wrong with Qi
Obstructed Qi is similar to a dam in a river. When Qi gets blocked in a part of the body, it limits its flow to the rest of the body. Restricted Qi flow can negatively affect health, and keep important energy from reaching the whole body.
Stress, an unhealthy diet, too little exercise, overwork, or emotionally or physically traumatic events or accidents can affect Qi flow. Sometimes the change of seasons or too much activity can also cause an imbalance of Qi.