Cupping therapy, an ancient practice with roots in various healing systems, involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. These cups can be made of glass, plastic, or silicone. The suction is believed to improve the flow of energy (known as “qi” in Traditional Chinese Medicine) within the body, promoting healing and balance.
How Does Cupping Work?
When the cups are applied to the skin, they create a vacuum effect. This suction increases blood circulation in the targeted area, which has several benefits:
Improved Blood Flow: Cupping enhances blood circulation, allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach tissues more efficiently. It also helps remove waste products from the cells.
Muscle Tension Relief: By increasing blood flow, cupping can alleviate muscle tension. This relaxation effect aids in overall blood circulation and promotes cell repair.
Connective Tissue Formation: Cupping may stimulate the formation of new connective tissues and blood vessels in the tissue, contributing to tissue repair and regeneration.
Lymphatic Drainage: Cupping supports the lymphatic system by encouraging the movement of lymph fluid. This helps remove toxins and waste products, supporting overall detoxification.
Common Misconceptions About Cupping:
Cupping can be very misunderstood so its always good to clear up some of these misconceptions! The first question usually is...
Does It Hurt? The answer is quite simple. If its done correctly, then no, it doesn't cause pain. I use both feedback from the skin, and also my client to understand how much vacuum is correct for them. Too much and it will be uncomforatble, but not enough and the benefits will be reduced. In general, a cupping session should be a pleasant experience.
Are The Circular Marks Bruises? The circular marks left by cupping are not bruises. They result from the suction pulling blood to the surface, indicating increased blood flow and localized healing.
Different Types of Cupping Techniques.
There are many different techniques to cupping. Therapists will have experience in what works best with their technique, and how each one can benefit the client in different ways.
The methods I prefer to include in my practice are:
Dry Cupping (Traditional Cupping):
In this classic method, cups are placed directly on the skin. I use a hand pump for price control to create a vacuum inside the cup, which adheres to the skin. As the air is removed from the cup it creates a small negative pressure that pulls the tissue up into the cup, separating the dermal layers and allowing blood to flow in, and lymph to flow away more freely.
Dry cupping is commonly used for pain relief, muscle tension, and overall relaxation.
Moving Cupping (Massage Cupping):
This technique uses the same vacuum as Dry Cupping, but with the addition of oil or lotion to the skin to allow the cups to glide across the surface. The cups remain in motion, providing a massage-like effect.
Moving cupping is excellent for targeting larger areas and promoting blood flow.
Flash Cupping:
Flash cupping involves quickly applying and removing the cups. The rapid suction and release stimulate blood circulation and energy flow.
It’s often used for acute pain or specific trigger points.
In summary, cupping therapy offers a holistic approach to wellness by enhancing blood flow, promoting lymphatic drainage, and supporting tissue repair. Its a relatively misunderstood practice, and my clients often have many questions about the process, so please feel free to get in touch with me if you have any queries.
Stay well and Healthy, Corey.
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