Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to support healing and restore balance. It is based on the idea that the body’s vital energy, known as “Qi” (pronounced “chee”), flows through pathways called meridians. When this energy is blocked or unbalanced, it is believed to cause pain or illness. By stimulating certain points, acupuncture aims to improve the flow of Qi and help the body return to a balanced state. During a session, a trained practitioner gently places needles into the skin, where they remain for several minutes while the person relaxes. Most people feel little discomfort, sometimes only a mild tingling sensation. Acupuncture is commonly used to help with pain, stress, headaches, and sleep issues. From a modern perspective, it may work by stimulating nerves, improving circulation, and releasing natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body.