We all know the human body carries electricity (in static charges it is visible). What we also know is that electrical impulses carry messages from the brain and nervous system to other areas of the body. What few of us know is how the human body uses electricity to heal.

This form of electricity is known as chi (Qi) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on energy in the body. This understanding of energy is what acupuncture practitioners study. Acupuncture practitioners understand that chi must be balanced and flow easily through all the meridians or energy paths in the body. This chi energy is the source of life and when it becomes imbalanced or obstructed, dis-ease may ensue. So it is imperative to maintain balanced and flowing chi through the body to maintain health.

Wellbeing is the result of proper thought, speech and action. One must practice balancing and moving chi through various forms of therapy including exercise, Tai Chi (Tai Chi Chuan, Taiji Quan, T’ai Chi Ch’uan), Qigong (Chi Kung), medicinal herbs and meditation. Once chi becomes balanced, environmental, emotional, mental, physical, and relational stress may take a toll and disrupt Chi. To remedy this disruption, practitioners may recommend daily routines like the practice of Tai Chi and Qigong and taking medicinal herbs.

Once chi is balanced, its yin and yang is in equalibrium. Once yin and yang energy is balanced, the body once again may operate optimally. This optimal functioning provides nourishment to all organs and systems of the body. Without this steady and balanced flow of chi, the body weakens and is more susceptible to ill health. So nourish your body with healthy chi to live a healthy, happy life. Your body deserves your care.