If you have ever received an acupuncture treatment, chances are a technique called cupping has been included in your treatment, which depends on your complaint.
What can cupping help with?
Cupping is an ancient therapy that uses special cups to be placed on the skin to create suction. It can be used to treat sprains, soft tissue injuries, back pain, hips or related pain, bronchitis, and asthma or congestion. Working in a similar way to acupuncture, cupping works on the subtle energy channels in the body to treat stagnant energy and encourage the flow of qi energy.
Increased blood flow into the area allows that body part to heal more quickly by bringing the toxins to the surface, which are released through the pores. By causing the tissues to release toxins, cupping helps clear energy blockages and activate the lymphatic system. Usually, several cups are simultaneously placed on the body and then left for about 15 minutes. In addition, this fixed-position cupping can be combined with "sliding" cupping in which the cups are being moved to other areas along different meridians or energy channels during the session. The therapist uses oil on the skin to facilitate the movement.
Other health benefits of cupping
Aside from providing relaxation, cupping therapy can also help loosen muscles and relieve pain, fluid retention, improve the flow of lymph and blood, and might also help in lessening the appearance of cellulite. Additionally, it can help in clearing stretch marks or scar tissue.
Find a cupping therapist in your local area.
Originally published on Jun 17, 2011
