According to traditional Chinese philosophy, our health is dependent on the body's motivating energy-known as Qi {chi} - moving in a smooth and balanced way through a series of channels called meridians beneath the skin. The Qi can become stagnant or blocked and in time create symptoms of ill health. The aim of acupuncture is to regulate the meridians or channels of the body to unblock the stagnation of energy {Qi}. It is a principle of Chinese medicine that disease is caused as a direct result of these energy blockages within the body. When the practitioner carefully inserts the fine stainless steel needles into the skin you may feel a slight tingling sensation, this is known as the "needle sensation". This is when the treatment is beginning to have effect. The needles are either put in for only a second or two or left in place for up to 20 minutes, depending on the treatment given. During this time patients often experience a feeling of relaxation.
