Acupuncture, as I currently understand it, provides a means of communication for the body to better connect with the brain and nervous system so that efforts may be sent to different areas in need. Stress, for instance, creates stagnation in vulnerable areas (resulting in bloating, muscle tension, headaches, etc). Acupuncture, in this case, reduces stress, clears the stagnation, improves function, and restores flow.
We know that the brain runs the show, and from functional MRIs, we know that acupuncture provides improved communication with the nervous system. There are teachers and practitioners who have started referring to acupuncture as “neuro-puncture” because it has become clear that we are tapping into the nervous system with our strategically placed little needles.