Acupuncture is an ancient medical practice that uses sterile hair-thin needles to activate and balance the body's energy or Qi (chi). This ancient practice is rooted in Yin-Yang Theory, meaning everything is about balance. The needles are simply the messenger (because metal conducts energy) to bring Qi back to balance!

The body is made up of a mapped system where energy flows. This system is comprised of Acupuncture Meridians or Channels. Along the Meridians, there are areas where energy is concentrated. These specific "acupoints" on the body can be activated to help reduce pain, fevers, increase energy, decrease anxiety and so much more. The Acupuncturist decides, based on the intake, what points will best fit the patient's needs. Acupoints are literally all over the body, from head to toe, front and back.

When a person feels pressured, overwhelmed, anxious or fearful, their sympathetic nervous system becomes activated and the body responds as though it's in danger. Energy is then focused on supporting defensive measures, rather than necessary life functions such as; digestion, proper blood flow and brain activity. Acupuncture can support the nervous system by bringing the body back to balance, allowing it to operate within the healthier parasympathetic nervous system. Life is a lot less scary and way more beautiful than we are often able to recognize. This is due to our brains and bodies constantly operating in "sympathetic mode." Acupuncture can help give your mind and body a new, healthier and more enjoyable perspective.

When someone receives acupuncture, the immune system reacts by decreasing the release of cytokines. Cytokines can bring about a "storm" like response within the immune system, creating a great deal of inflammation in the body. Acupuncture also supports the immune system by increasing helper T cells and NK cells (cells that are great at fighting viruses and bacteria). In turn, acupuncture keeps the body's defense system rested and strong!

If there is one thing acupuncture is known for, it's helping those who suffer from pain. The theory of acupuncture is rooted in the belief that energy flows within us and when that flow is thrown off, pain (among many other issues) will arise. Acupuncture helps to rebalance that flow of energy, thus reducing pain. Once the needles are inserted, a process of chemical reactions take place. A release of histamine is part of one of those chemical reactions. Histamine alerts the body there is something wrong. It begins to engulf toxins and damaged tissue, along with bringing oxygenated blood to the area. In conclusion there are two different ways acupuncture works. One, needles are placed near the problematic area(s), literally activating the energetic healing process at the source of the problem. Two, the needle is placed in an acupuncture point which energetically tells the body help is needed!