What are the theories underlying acupuncture and ayurveda?
Answer: Acupuncture is a system based on balancing the active and passive forces within the patient's body to strengthen the qi (chee), or life force. This process involves placing hair-thin needles at different points in the body to stimulate the patient's qi. When stimulated, it is said to help with the body to fight illness. On the other hand, ayurveda is an Indian preventive approach based on herbal remedies. This process focuses on the interplay of body, mind, and sprit. It is composed of qualities that reflect combinations of the five basic elements of life - space, air, fire, water, and earth. This treatment is directed towards eliminating impurities from the body through dietary changes, fasting, colonic cleansing of the gastrointestinal tract, and cleansing of the respiratory tract.