Acupuncture is a several thousand year-old energy-based system of diagnosis and healing that is part of a much larger system of healing known as Oriental Medicine. Acupuncture involves the careful placement of very fine needles into special points on the skin that are associated with pathways (meridians or channels) through which different types of energy, called Qi, are said to flow. The needles are left in place for 20-30 minutes while the client or patient relaxes in a warm and soothing treatment room. The placement of the needles as determined through a careful interview with an experienced clinician/acupuncturist that explores the relationships of the presenting symptoms to many aspects of a person's life circumstances. Acupuncture involves careful attention to the whole person, not just the symptoms and their cause. Indications that acupuncture is working for you are often noticeable with them the first few visits. Through on-going consultation, you can determine what type of course of acupuncture or Oriental medicine treatment, including recommendation of appropriate herbs, makes the most sense for you. More information can be found at www.acupuncture.com.