The Amazing Benefits of Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy is a highly effective and under utilized therapeutic bodywork technique. The suction and negative pressure created by the cups increases blood circulation, loosens muscles, and helps repair scar tissue. It also helps to draw out dead or stagnant blood cells, cellular debris, lymph fluid, and toxins out of the deeper tissues toward the surface. This allows for improved overall circulation to the area. When the accumulated blood and energy start to flow more smoothly, you feel a deep sense of relaxation and well-being. The nervous system enters a tranquil state of calmness and serenity while the body starts to repair damage.
The suction of the cups lifts all the layers of tissue - including the dermis, muscle tissue, and fascia. In this way, cupping is able to get rid of micro tears and adhesions in muscle tissues. Any kind of injuries caused by repeated strain - such as plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tension headaches, respond very well to cupping therapy. Those recovering from any sort of musculoskeletal injuries, would also highly benefit from this ancient healing technique.
Our therapists use professional grade silicone suction cups & organic oils to gently glide the cups over areas of the body. Sometimes they are left in places of more severe stagnation, as it takes time for the body to respond. This is when there is a possibility of cupping marks being left behind.
The marks you see post cupping can be likened to hickies as opposed to bruises. They
only appear in areas of tension and stagnation, and with proper self care, usually
disappear between 2 days - 2 weeks.
To take care of yourself after cupping therapy:
- avoid alcohol, coffee, soda
- avoid fried, processed or sugary foods
- keep the treatment area warm and away from wind and drafts
- get rest and stay hydrated
- avoid taking a hot shower, bath, or swimming
Note:
If someone is dehydrated, hungered, fatigued, or has sensitive anatomy,
their body may not have the resources it needs to effectively integrate the effects
of the treatment. The result is feeling tired, achy,
and drained, as your body does the work it needs to repair. ⠀ Please note all
contraindications prior to any treatment. Also, refer to the post-therapy self care
section, as it is very important to take proper care
of yourself after a cupping therapy treatment.
Fire Cupping
During fire cupping, the suction effect is created by placing an inverted glass
cup over a flaming alcohol-soaked cotton ball, which removes the oxygen from the cup
and creates a vacuum. The cup is then quickly
placed on the surface of the skin, creating suction of the skin.
The cup isn’t hot when applied, and the flame never comes in contact with the skin — the fire simply serves the purpose of creating the suction necessary to perform the treatment.
Fire cupping is the most original form of cupping therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The fire and glass cups create a stronger suction than silicone or plastic suction cups. This makes it a bit more intense treatment than regular cupping massage. Heat from the fire is also said to be nourishing for those who are drained and tired, so fire cupping could give you the boost you need!
The marks you see post cupping can be likened to hickies as opposed to bruises. They only appear in areas of tension and stagnation, and with proper self care, usually disappear between 2 days - 2 weeks.
Benefits of Fire Cupping
- warms the body
- dispels cold
- increases circulation
- dispels dampness
- reduces pain in strained, overworked muscles
- harmonizes the stomach and spleen
- improves digestion
- calms anxiety, tension, mental and emotional disorders
- opens the lungs to help relieve bronchitis, asthma, allergies, pneumonia, phlegm, COPD
To take care of yourself after fire cupping:
- avoid alcohol, coffee, soda
- avoid fried, processed or sugary foods
- keep the treatment area warm and away from wind and drafts
- get rest and stay hydrated to help your body flush out what has been drawn up to the surface post cupping
- avoid taking a shower, bath, or swimming
Please visit contraindications and post therapy self care for more information.
Face Cupping Massage
Facial cupping uses small, specially designed suction cups to lift and massage facial tissue. Facial cupping increases oxygen-rich blood circulation, strengthening skin & connective tissue. Results include reduced puffiness, softened fine lines and wrinkles, and stimulated collagen. Face cupping also works to reduce scars and pore size, as well as tone the chin, jawline, neck & decolletage.
Aromatherapy Blend - geranium, tea tree, lavender
Abdominal Cupping Massage
Cupping is an excellent therapy for the abdominal area. It stretches the walls of the organs, getting rid of stagnant waste and mucus and promotes the overall activity of digestion. Abdominal cupping is successfully being used to help in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fluid retention, loss of appetite, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal distention, acidity, and other gastrointestinal diseases. Perfect for those suffering from digestive disorders or just want to aide in a detox.
Aromatherapy Blend - peppermint, ginger, clove
Foot Cupping Massage
The suction cups work to create myofascial decompression. A foot cupping massage is a gentle and relaxing way to alleviate tension in tired feet. Those suffering from plantar fasciitis will extremely benefit from this treatment.
Aromatherapy Blend - eucalyptus, lemon, tea tree
Hand Cupping Massage
Highly recommended for office workers, chefs, musicians, hair stylists, gamers, construction workers, and mechanics. Cups help alleviate the tension which causes the hypertension of muscles surrounding the wrists due to repetitive use. Those suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome can also greatly benefit from this treatment.
Aromatherapy Blend - frankincense, helichrysum, clary sage
Cellulite Cupping Massage
Although cupping doesn’t help with losing weight, it can definitely help reduce the appearance of cellulite! Done frequently enough, it has the ability to remove the orange-like texture, leaving your skin looking more youthful and firm. Combined with proper exercise, hydration and diet, it is one of the most effective and natural ways to say goodbye to cellulite.
Aromatherapy Blend - rosemary, cedarwood, juniper, lemongrass, grapefruit