Cupping Massage
The Benefits of Cupping
The suction and negative pressure provided by cupping can loosen muscles, encourage blood flow, and sedate the nervous system.
What is cupping?
Cupping is an ancient healing therapy, in which cups are applied to the skin. A vacuum is then created which causes the skin and superficial muscle layer to be lightly drawn into the cup. One way to think about cupping, is that it is the inverse of massage. Rather than applying pressure to the muscles, the suction uses pressure to gently pull skin tissue and muscles upward, removing stagnation and stimulating the free flow of energy, or chi.
Who needs it?
Everyone can benefit from cupping. Cupping removes stagnation and promotes the free flow of chi, thereby it may help alleviate pain, repetitive strains, inflammation, toxicity, migraines, chronic fatigue, digestive issues, and other stubborn conditions. Cupping is a detoxifying, and energy building modality that people all over the world have used for centuries, and can be used for general health maintenance. It promotes relaxation, well-being, loosens connective tissue, thereby providing relief from pain and stress.
What does it do?
Cupping is one of the best deep-tissue therapies available. The negative pressure formed by cupping facilitates rigid soft tissue release, and loosens & lifts connective tissue. It breaks up and drains stagnation, while increasing circulation and oxygenation of tissues, and promoting blood and lymph flow to skin and muscles. Cupping breaks up congestion, stagnation, or blockages in the body to restore a free flow of the vital energies, which in turn provides relief of pain. Cupping also promotes a sense of peace and general well-being.
How does it feel?
You may feel a tight sensation in the area of the cup. Often this sensation is relaxing and soothing. The pulling action engages the parasympathetic nervous system, thus allowing a deep relaxation to move through the entire body. It is not unusual to fall asleep while receiving this therapy. After a session, it is most commonly reported that there is an alleviation of physical discomfort, and people naturally feel lighter, more relaxed, refreshed, and their stress levels lower.
*NOTE: Please make sure you only receive cupping massage from a licensed professional, as there can be complications and detox reactions from improper cupping techniques. There are many positive benefits of cupping, and it is a very safe and effective therapy when performed by a trained licensed therapist.
