Acupuncture is a 3,000+ year old healing modality originating in China that uses the stimulation of specific areas on the body to improve the body’s functions, release endorphins to stop pain, regulate the autonomic nervous system and facilitate the body’s own natural healing processes. Typically, fine, single-use surgical grade steel needles are inserted into the skin at specific points on the body and retained for 15-45 minutes while the patient relaxes. However, points can also be effectively stimulated through acupressure, or contact needling, where the needles do not penetrate the skin’s surface. Modern research has demonstrated acupuncture’s effects on the nervous system, endocrine and immune systems, cardiovascular system, and digestive system. By guiding the body towards its desired homeostasis, acupuncture can facilitate the healing of conditions that conventional medicine struggles to effectively resolve. Many patients find acupuncture to be effective at relieving pain, easing stress and improving their circulation, skin, digestion, sleep and mood.