The Qi (pronounced "chee") or vital energy, circulates throughout the body along pathways called meridians or channels. It is similar to the way that blood travels through a system of blood vessels to feed every cell in your body. When the Qi flows freely and in abundance, the body is in a state of health while the lack of Qi or stagnant Qi gives rise to disease causing disharmony and imbalance of the organs. By the insertion of very fine acupuncture needles into specific points along the paths of the meridians, the flow of Qi is either stimulated or dispensed. Thus the flow of vital energy is restored and the body with its inherent power for regeneration heals itself. Each treatment is individualized and tailored to meet the patient's need making acupuncture truly a "healing art."