The aim of the treatment is to restore the balance between the equal and opposite qualities of Qi, the yin and yang. The terms literally mean the sunny and shady side of a mountain.
Yang energy is represented by light, heat, dryness and contraction, while yin is characterised by tranquillity, darkness, cold, moisture and swelling. If the body has an excess yang it may experience acute pain, inflammation, spasms, headaches and hypertension. A yin dominance may be felt as dull aches or pains, chilliness, discharges and fatigue. Acupuncture treatment attempts to restore the balance of the energy systems enabling the body's self healing mechanisms to work more efficiently.
