How does acupuncture work from the standpoint of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
Chinese medical theory posits the circulation of a vital life energy or “qi” throughout the body along pathways or channels known as meridians. These meridians are similar but not identical to the nervous and blood circulatory systems. When the flow of this qi is smooth, even and unimpeded, health results on all levels: physically, mentally and emotionally. An imbalance or blockage of this flow leads to all forms of ailments, disease and illness. The balance of life is conceived of as the interplay between two forces: yin and yang. Yin is the cold, slow and passive principle. Yang is the hot, fast and active principle. Acupuncture aims to restore the free, easy and smooth flow between yin and yang. The 12 primary meridians and 8 secondary meridians are where most of the acupuncture points are placed. The stimulation, sedation or activation of these acupoints through needling and other techniques strengthens, unblocks and balances the energetic flow of qi. Acupuncture stimulates the qi
