Qi (Part 3): Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the part of Chinese Medicine which is most synonymous with the concept of qi. The manifestation of qi (as understood by acupuncture theory) can best be described as energy which is yet to take material form.

The acupuncture channels (meridians) are said to circulate qi throughout the body in a closed loop system. The qi repeatedly moves along the channels in a sequential fashion.

According to Chinese Medicine theory, illness is the result of an energetic imbalance. This is reflected in the channels as a disturbance of qi. Illness and injury both affect the state of how the qi flows through the channels.

The symptoms which are experienced during an illness are believed to be a reflection on the nature of the qi disturbance. When out of balance qi can be in at state deficiency, excess or stagnation. By inserting acupuncture needles into specific locations along the channels, the qi will be regulated in a manner so as to restore balance. This is said to rectify the root cause of the illness and in turn alleviate the symptoms.

During an acupuncture treatment there are times when a sensation is experienced on needle insertion. This feels similar to a light electric shock. The direction of the sensation clearly moves along the pathway of the respective acupuncture channel. In most cases this is outside of the neurological pathways. Patients are often curios to know what caused the sensation. It is simply the qi being activated.