ACUPUNCTURE
is the insertion of fine needles into the skin and underlying tissues for therapeutic effect.

Acupuncture is part of the traditional medicine of China which draws on the wisdom of over 2,000 years of accumulated knowledge and experience in treating human disease.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE
is the name given to the traditional medicine practised in China today. It includes: acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage and manipulation (tuina), dietary therapy, and therapeutic exercise (qigong). All of these are practised according to the same basic underlying theoretical principles.

Central to Chinese medicine is the concept of qi (pronounced 'chee'). Qi is the life-force or energy which flows throughout your body. It is this life-force which regulates and maintains your body in good working order, providing the vitality to ensure that you are able to cope with the stresses and strains of life. By balancing and harmonising this life-force, acupuncture stimulates your power of self healing.

WHAT IS ILLNESS?
In a healthy person the qi flows smoothly through the body. This ensures the normal working of the organs and tissues. However, if this flow is disrupted for any reason then the body will be unable to function efficiently and normally. You may simply feel 'below par' if the problem is mild; if it is serious, then illness can occur. The flow of qi can be disturbed by many factors including, climate and weather (for instance, damp and cold), diet, stress, overwork, drugs, trauma, emotional and hereditary factors.

WHAT DOES TREATMENT DO?
Acupuncture treatment can correct the flow of qi, and stimulate the body's own healing response, by the inserting of needles into specific points on the body which have powerful therapeutic effects.