Its focus is on improving the overall well being of the patient, rather than the isolated treatment of specific symptoms. According to ancient Taoist philosophy, our health is dependent on the body's motivating energy -known as Qi (chee)- moving in a smooth and balanced way through a series of channels beneath the skin. Qi consists of equal and opposite qualities- Yin and Yang- and when these become unbalanced, illness may result.

"All things are held in Yin and carry Yang and they are held together in the Qi of teeming energy." Tao Te Ching chapter 42

By inserting fine needles into the channels of energy an acupuncturist can stimulate the body's own healing response and help restore its natural balance. The flow of Qi can be disturbed by a number of factors. These include emotional states such as anxiety, depression, stress, anger, fear, grief, poor nutrition, weather conditions, hereditary factors, infections, poisons and trauma. The principle aim of acupuncture in treating the whole person is to recover the equilibrium between the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of the individual.