Acupuncture Treats The Whole PersonTraditional Chinese medicine is a holistic approach to medicine. Acupuncture is based on the idea that there are 12 main channels of energy that run through the body. Each channel is named after the organ it brings energy to like the Lung, Heart or Liver. Each channel has its own specific pathway along the surface of the body, but also goes internally to give energy to its particular internal organ. When there are blockages in these channels, a patient may experience pain along the channel or the effects of the disruption of the internal organ it pertains to. By inserting a metal needle into specific acupuncture points along the body, an acupuncturist is able to unblock the energy and reconduct the flow. This allows the body to return to energetic balance, or homeostasis, and heal itself. Yin & Yang The idea of harmony and balance are the basis of yin and yang. The principle that every individual is governed by opposing complementary forces of yin and yang, is central to all Chinese thought. The body, mind, and emotions are all subject to the influences of yin and yang. When the two opposing forces are in balance people feel healthy and balanced, but if one force dominates the other, it brings out imbalance that can result in illness and disharmony. One of the main goals of an acupuncture is to maintain the balance of yin and yang throughout a person’s body to prevent illness and restore health. Qi, pronounced “chee”, is the force in the body that gives people the capacity to move, think, feel, and work. The acupuncturist uses needles to access the Qi in order to remove blockages that are causing pain and discomfort. When the blockages are gone, pain and discomfort are relieved and the body is able to return to homeostasis. Why Choose Acupuncture? Acupuncture is a safe and effective alternative treatment for many conditions. It is a natural therapy that can be used in conjunction with other alternative or Western methods. Most Commonly Treated ConditionsAcupuncture can treat most types of health problems and disorders. It is only a matter of finding the pattern of energetic disharmony that is occurring in each patient’s body. The California State Acupuncture Committee compiled a list of the 25 most commonly treated conditions: