The concept of qi is at the core of Chinese medicine and it is commonly described as vital energy. According to Chinese philosophy and medical theory, good health is dependent on continuous flow of qi through the network of pathways (meridians or channels) in the body. When this flow of qi becomes obstructed, disturbed or depleted, pain, discomfort or illness may occur.

This imbalanced qi circulation can be corrected with acupuncture, a low-intervention technique that involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points on the meridian pathways, which carry the qi and connect with the internal organs. This in turn stimulates the body’s own healing response and helps restore its natural balance and promote physical and emotional harmony.

The needles are stimulated using various techniques, to encourage the arrival of qi, termed ‘de qi’ or warmed through moxibustion.