Cupping 

Cupping can combined with any therapy session as needed. It is an ancient Chinese healing technique that involves placing glass or bamboo or silicon cups on the skin to create suction. The suction may facilitate healing with blood flow and release of any stagnations.

It is also believed that cupping helps harmonize the energy flow within the channels, which can eventually fortify the immune system, improve circulation and alleviate pain.

Glass cups create suction to release lactic acid that builds up deep in the muscles. Silicone cups can help improve circulation, release fascia and relax muscles. It is like the inverse of a massage—instead of pushing down on muscles, it pulls up on them, allowing more space for them to release and relax. 

The Benefits of Cupping

  • Pain relief

  • Alleviates muscle tension, and oedematous and inflamed injuries

  • Arthritic pain

  • Stimulates circulation

  • Chest congestion and asthma

  • Reduces anxiety

  • Releases of toxins

  • Keeps the Skin Healthy

  • Benefits the digestive system by improving metabolism, relieving constipation, enhancing a healthy appetite, and fortifying digestion.

Aftercare

  • Hydrate 

  • Protect the cupped areas from direct exposure to cold, wind and sun.

  • Do not overexert yourself.

 For 4-6 hours post cupping, limit exposure to:

  • Caffeine, alcohol, sugary foods and drinks, dairy, and processed meats. It is more difficult for your body to process these foods and so they may slow down your body’s ability to process the treatment.

  • Hot showers, saunas, hot tubs, and strong air conditioning. After cupping, your skin will be more sensitive to temperature changes. Give your skin time to recover. 

How to prepare for cupping or cupping massage:

  • Hydrate. Water is essential for your health, and especially for your lymphatic system. Cupping fortifies your lymphatic system by helping it clear away cellular waste from your body, and it needs plenty of water to do this effectively.

  • Give time to your body to digest before your appointment.

  • Avoid shaving within four hours of your appointment. 

  • Recover from sunburn. 

  • Don’t exfoliate aggressively prior to your appointment. Exfoliation can make your skin extra sensitive. Wait a couple days after aggressive exfoliation treatment before receiving cupping.

How to make the cupping marks go away faster:

A possible side effect of cupping is bruise-like marks that may last for up to two weeks, based on how your body metabolises fluids. The circular marks range in color from pink to deep red or purple. Be proud of these marks, as you are doing something great for your health! 

The discolouration is related to your body’s health at the time of cupping.
To make the marks disappear faster make sure you hydrate and rest.

Avoid this technique if you experience any of the following:

  • Bleeding disorders like hemophilia.

  • Blood clotting problems, such as deep vein thrombosis or history of strokes.

  • Skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis.

  • Seizures (epilepsy).