Acupuncture is more than 3,000 years old, based on an energy systems model rather than a biomedical model of healing.

Acupuncture is based on the concept that our bodies contain energy, a vital life force that gives us our ability to move, think and feel.

This life force, known as qi (pronounced "chee") runs through pathways in the body called meridians, which have been determined after centuries of observation.

Meridians form a network of energy pathways that are connected to different organs in the body. Along these meridians are points that can be accessed. There are hundreds such points on the body.

The needles help the energy flow better; it's like reprogramming the body's computer.

When the needles enter the point of access, they move the energy, helping to increase circulation throughout the meridian, which leads to an overall balance of one's qi throughout the whole body. Ultimately, a balanced qi leads to improved physical, mental and emotional health.

In this practice, we look at the individual, not patterns of symptoms.

The techniques used in acupuncture are meant to initiate body to heal itself.