Chinese cupping
What is Cupping?
The ancient art of cupping is an extraordinary technique that has been passed down for thousands of years and continues to be widely used among professionals and lay people across many cultures today.
The healing process can be shortened by weeks, even months, by using this method that manually removes the energy blockage in ways that acupuncture needles, massage and other forms of treatment cannot.
Cupping is a suction technique designed to pull toxin build up and muscle spasm from the body’s deeper tissue to the surface of the skin. The cells of the body use oxygen and give off carbon dioxide; when the energy is blocked, the cell waste or carbon dioxide gets blocked. This is called acid or toxin build up. Physical pain implies a blockage in the flow of energy through a particular area. When toxins or cell waste stagnate in the muscles or joints, it can be very difficult for the body to get rid of this waste, causing further blockage and discomfort.
It is painful?
-
The cupping sensation can be a bit painful for the first sixty seconds, the time during which most of the toxins are removed. It is helpful to try to relax into the process by inhaling and exhaling through the nose.
-
It is important not to get cupped on an empty stomach. Take slow, deep inhales and exhales only through the nose. This will regulate the nervous system and further insure that you do not get dizzy or lightheaded.
-
Patients typically experience immediate relief in symptomatic areas of the body upon removal of the cups, making the initial discomfort well worth the treatment. Rarely, but occasionally, when the skin turns deep purple, there may be more intense discomfort which will pass within 24-48 hours.
What is it for?
-
Cupping is an excellent diagnostic tool. It can help us better understand what the problem is, where it is located and its severity.
-
Cupping can be used to help release pain, stagnation and to detox. Sometimes symptoms we experience such as fatigue, lethargy, or headaches can be a symptom of toxic overload that your body is trying to manage. Please note: if you've been on medications long term, be gentle with cupping, as the treatment will release substances locked in the muscle layer.
After Care
-
It is a common misconception that cupping marks are bruises. Bruising is caused by trauma leading to breakage of capillaries. Cupping marks are the result of having toxins pulled up to the skin.
-
Keep the cupped area covered, warm and free from cold air immediately after treatment and for the following three days to assure that the muscles do not tighten and spasm.
-
Drink plenty of water to help clear the toxins through the body’s normal excretory channels.
-
Take it easy after the cupping treatment and for the day after. Avoid hot tubs and cold plunges to prevent getting chilled. Avoid any strenuous activity, especially if there is residual soreness.
-
Remember that your skin has not been bruised or traumatized; the coloration shows toxin release.
-
If you still have concerns, call your medical practitioner.