Cupping massage therapy

One of the most misunderstood parts of cupping is the marks left by the treatment. The pink, red or purple circles left on the body after a cupping session are not “bruises,” as we typically understand the term. “Bruises” (or “purpura”) are marks resulting from trauma, resulting in subdermal bleeding, and they are often very sore. Cupping marks are closer to (don’t laugh…) a hickey, and the coloring varies depending on the type and amount of toxins that were released from deep in the muscles and surrounding tissue during the cupping session.

Benefits of Cupping Massage

Cupping encourages tissues to release toxins

Yes, we have organs that remove toxins from our blood. But the modern lifestyle overloads your body with toxins. Cupping gives your body a boost in releasing those toxins. Focused blood flow helps your body by flushing built-up toxins through the lymphatic system. (Your lymphatic system is responsible for eliminating your body’s toxins and waste.)

Cupping reduces anxiety

When your therapist glides the cups across your skin, your parasympathetic nervous system engages. This promotes deep relaxation to move through your entire body. (Your parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for slowing your heart rate, assisting in digestion, and increasing intestinal and gland activity.)

Cupping can clear colon blockages and aid digestion

Cupping helps to engage the parasympathetic nervous system, which increases blood flow to the digestive tract. Gentle cupping over the abdomen also stimulates the insides of your digestive organs. It aids in peristalsis (contractions that push food through your digestive tract), helps clear colon blockages, encourages blood and body fluid to move through your organs, and helps relieve indigestion.

Cupping can clear congestion and help treat asthma

Congestion (the build-up of fluid or phlegm in your lungs) caused by a cold, bronchitis or even asthma can be treated with cupping. The suction from cups breaks up and expels congestion. It brings oxygen-rich blood and lymph toward your lungs and your other respiratory muscles. Cups are usually placed on your back but may be placed on your chest as well.

You can get relief from cold, cough, and allergy symptoms

Cupping can also be used to stimulate the lungs, which can clear out phlegm. Excessive phlegm in the lungs can lead to coughing. This therapy is able to speed up the healing process while you have a cold, cough, or allergy symptom. Cupping can even boost your immune function by moving lymphatic fluid through the body.

Detoxify your body

Having poor circulation can lead to a build-up of toxins inside of your body’s tissues. This build-up may be the cause of several different health problems and conditions. Cupping can help clear out dead cells, toxins, and other debris by rushing blood to the sites being treated. It is beneficial to drink water after a cupping session to help flush away the impurities and promote better health.

Skin

Cupping is also used to reduce skin inflammation, eliminate acne and eczema, lessen herpes breakouts, and break up cellulite. This therapy is based on a belief that disease is caused by a blockage of positive energy trying to flow through the body’s meridians. When this blockage is removed, it allows the body to heal itself.

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive, painful condition that interferes with the sensation and strength of your hands. In some cases, this condition can even decrease the functionality of your hands. Cupping can provide temporary pain relief from carpal tunnel syndrome.

Cupping increases blood circulation to the area where the cups are placed. This may relieve muscle tension, which can improve overall blood flow and promote cell repair. It may also help form new connective tissues and create new blood vessels in the tissue.