There are channels of energy that run throughout and over the body. These channels are called Meridians. They flow like a river of life, stimulating and nourshing our cells and tissues to grow and be healthy. There are times when these channels become blocked. When they become blocked, they can affect not only areas they lead to, but other areas as well. This can lead to illness, disease, pains, and discomforts of many sorts (IBS, backaches, headaches etc).Acupuncture is designed to get the Chi (pronounced 'chee' also shown as Qi) flowing again to get the body to begin it's own natural process of healing and repairing itself by unblocking those dams that have reared their ugly heads...This system has been developed by a culture that has been studying holistic medicines for thousands of years. There has been research done that actually shows how it stimulates various centers in the brain and body and that it does work for many who try it. But, there is also the side of spirituality/energy body that is involved that makes research a bit difficult to explain or put on paper according to the 'rules' of our scientific/medical community. Hence, for many it's 'imagined' since we can't actually see, feel, or taste it...Much of our current medical system is based on business. Drug companies competeing to make our lives better so they can reap the benefits. We've all seen the commercials for many of the new drugs that are out there (followed by warnings of adverse side affects such as nausea, headaches, abdonminal pain, oh and pregnant women should never handle 'this' drug...)...We've made wonderful advancements and life is much better now than it was. But I think that we need to find a happy medium of holistic and 'western' medicines.Not trying to rant *grin..too late neh?*, but I would highly recommend that anyone having medical problems of any sort should explore ALL avenues available to them. After all, if it works, what does it matter what it is?Be well..------------------"There is no spoon.."--The Matrix