Acupuncture has been practiced in China and other Asian countries for thousands of years. It is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and improve bodily function.  An invisible life force called Qi flows throughout the body via 14 information and energy pathways known as meridians. It is thought that illness and pain are caused by blockages and imbalances of Qi.  Thin needles inserted into the body with acupuncture, at precise points along bodily meridians, can unblock these pathways, which can then maintain and restore health.