Cupping - what is it?

Cupping massage therapy is a process by which a vacuum is created in a thick glass jar which is then attached to the skin via suction.  It is most often used on the back or other areas where large muscles are present.

During a cupping massage, the cups are pleasantly glided across the muscles on oiled skin, while maintaining suction.  The process is therapeutic, relaxing, and feels wonderful!

In medical terms, cupping brings healthy blood flow into the muscles and encourages waste products to be more effectively eliminated via the lymph system and other routes.  This process nourishes the body’s tissues which reduces the build-up of cellular wastes, promotes tissue healing, assists the body’s natural detoxification processes, reduces inflammation, and helps to dissolve areas of knots and adhesions. The suction action on the skin and soft tissues encourages circulation and thus, the body’s ability to heal itself.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine terms, cupping moves “Qi and blood” and can help alleviate pain and areas of stagnation.  (Think of stagnation as areas where tissues and body fluids have become stuck). Using Chinese medical theory, the cups are also used over specific acupuncture points, selected based upon your unique body.

Cupping has a long history of therapeutic use in most cultures throughout the world and is frequently used based on both Asian and European traditions.

After a session there may be a harmless area of reddened or purplish skin present which will dissipate over time.  This redness is actually a positive sign that the therapy is working as it’s supposed to.