For the uninitiated, acupuncture must seem an extreme form of therapy. The idea of inserting long, sharp needles into key places on the body, a slightly barbaric process however, acupuncture is an ancient Chinese procedure that can help to relieve pain or indeed many illnesses and is extremely popular.

The idea behind acupuncture is that in Chinese medicine, energy (chi) flows along meridian lines which are said to be connected to internal organs. Placing these special needles into the meridian lines can decrease or increase energy flowing along those lines. It is all about creating balance in the body and in Chinese medicine there are two opposite forces known as Yin and Yang. Yin is female and Yang is male.

Incredibly, there have been needles found from 4,000 years ago in China proving the long association China has had with this therapy form. Through the centuries, the needles have changed from being made from stone, bronze and even gold and silver. Today's therapists now are usually steel.

The theory is that diseases occur simply because the energy flow along the invisible meridian lines is interrupted, but by careful manipulation of the needles, this can help to restore the energy and therefore restore health.

Acupuncture can be used for pain relief and it is even used for brain surgery and heart surgery. There has been a great deal of scientific study into the success of acupuncture and many people now have a great inner belief in this age old practice. Other conditions which can be treated are:

• Peptic ulcers
• Asthma
• High blood pressure
• Appendicitis

Acupuncture works well with other holistic therapies such as:

Meditation

Meditation helps to calm inner angst and tension that may be stored within the body and it reduces the effect of stress on the body. Meditation can also be used to promote renewed inner healing and therefore compliments acupuncture.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy essential oils can be used in a variety of ways such as for promoting health and uplifting the spirits but all can support the benefits of acupuncture.

Colour Therapy

Scientific studies have shown that people respond well to the use of colours around them and that healing with colours really does work, and used in conjunction with acupuncture, healing can be greatly promoted.