The Chinese believe the body has the ability to heal its self. Acupuncture evokes this self-healing by the stimulation of specific areas on the body, called acupuncture points. This stimulation is achieved by the shallow insertion and manipulation of extremely fine sterile needles into the skin at these sites. Chinese medical theory describes how the body is kept in balance by the free flow of the energy called Qi. The energy (QI) flows through channels called meridians. If this flow becomes blocked, an imbalance occurs and this can give rise to disease, loss of function and pain. In the last few years Western scientists have discovered myofascial pathways that appear to follow the meridians described by the ancient acupuncturists, and the concept of QI itself could well overlap with their growing knowledge of how the cells of the body communicate. Acupuncture aims to maintain the energy flow and resolve any blockages to restore the natural balance. This stimulates the body’s own natural healing and defence processes, promoting physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing.