How Does Acupuncture Work? Nikola Tesla showed us that everything is made of and radiates energy. He proved that magnetic energy is the basis for all phenomena in the Universe. This subtle form of energy supports, shapes, energizes and activates our body, mind and spirit. For the past 5000 years practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine refer to this intelligent energy, or “life-force,” as Qi (pronounced “chee”). In addition to ancient Chinese culture numerous other cultures have described this life-force energy by various names: prana, baraka, pneuma, spirit, wakan, material force, vital force, orgone, ether and ruach.

What is Qi? Qi is the root of a human being. Qi is the vital energy in all living things, from the tallest tree to the smallest cell. Qi is a combination of energies mixed together from our food, air and inherited constitution. Qi provides the power to accomplish everyday activities. Qi is necessary for growth, development, movement, maintenance of body function and temperature, provides protection against illness and disease and provides for the overall regulation of our body. Therefore our health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of Qi.  

What are meridians? Wherever water flows it carries water which provides nourishment and sustenance for all life on our planet. In a similar fashion acupuncture meridians are like rivers of energy where Qi flows throughout the body. Qi flows through meridians is an invisible current thus energizing, nourishing and supporting every cell, tissue, muscle, organ and gland in the body.

What causes illness and disease to occur? The stresses of daily life affect the quality and flow of Qi. Different stresses affect meridians and organs in different ways, thus disrupting or blocking the flow of Qi. For example, if a garden hose is blocked it cannot provide an adequate supply of water for the plants. Eventually the plants will be unable to grow, thrive, blossom and reach their full potential. Likewise a blockage in the meridians will effect the flow and supply of Qi required to support and nourish the sells, tissues, muscles, organs and glands. These blockages then manifest into…

How does an acupuncturist diagnose illness? An acupuncturist develops keen diagnostic skills to effectively evaluate the quality, quantity and balance of Qi flowing within the body.