Cupping is a therapy in which heated cups are applied to the skin along the meridians of the body, creating suction as a way of stimulating the flow of energy.
Cupping therapy isn’t anything new; it has been a part of Eastern medicine for a very long time. But to those of you more familiar with western medicine, it may be new to you.
Cupping gained big exposure after Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps was spotted with circular bruising while swimming in the 2016 Olympics. The bruising may turn some off, however it has gained popularity in recent years, likely due to the awesome benefits cupping can have.
Cupping has been shown to benefit:
- Blood disorders such as anemia and hemophilia
- Rheumatic diseases such as arthritis and fibromyalgia
- Fertility and gynecological disorders
- Skin problems such as eczema and acne
- High blood pressure
- Migraines
- Anxiety and depression
- Bronchial congestion cause by allergies and asthma
- Varicose veins
- Inflammation and pain
Cupping treatment usually uses glass or silicone cups that are adhered with heat. This creates a vacuum effect that makes the therapeutic effect of cupping. The patient feels the cup gently pulling on the skin.
The cup is removed by gently pushing down on the cup, releasing the skin. The mark that is left behind (see right) generally lasts from 2-10 days. A darker mark usually indicates more stagnation in the body. With each treatment, the marks should lighten as the condition in improved. Some clients don’t get marks at all.