Holistic means that no single part of a person can be understood except in its relation to the whole. A symptom is not traced back to a single cause, but is viewed in its relation to the whole body. Energetic means that vital energy (called Qi in Asian culture) is the foundation of life and health: it is the life energy animating our physical body.

The ancient Chinese recognized the vital energy behind all life forms and life processes. In developing an understanding of the prevention and cure of disease, ancient physicians studied this system of cyclic energy flowing in the human body along specific pathways (meridians). Each pathway is associated with a particular physiological system and internal organ: this system of energy is the foundation of acupuncture theory.

Disease is considered to arise from a deficiency or imbalance of vital energy (Qi) in the meridians and their associated physiological systems. This imbalance or diagnosis is determined by taking into account all circumstances in a patient’s life: all physical, mental, and emotional components are considered. Western medicine by contrast usually isolates a disease to a specific organ, system, or region of the body.

The pathways or meridians of energy communicate with the surface of the body at specific locations called acupuncture points. Each point has a predictable effect upon the vital energy passing through it. Modern science has been able to measure the electrical charge at these points, thus corroborating the locations of the meridians mapped.

Traditional Chinese Medicine also uses the body’s signs in areas such as the pulse and tongue to provide clues about the total state of heath. Findings from these methods are combined with other symptoms to create a complete diagnosis. That’s why the intake is a vital part of the process. Though we don’t order lab tests, advanced imaging, or blood work, we can interpret the results to help piece together your overall condition. Only then can an individualized treatment plan be formulated to induce a balanced state of health.