All About Cupping Therapy!
Although cupping therapy hasn’t been popular until recently
-Thanks to Michael Phelps at the Olympics-
Cupping is an ancient form of alternative medicine!
What does cupping do?
Decompresses the myofascial system (muscle and connective tissues)
Promotes oxygenated blood flow to areas in order to help heal aches and pains
Relaxes the nervous system
Helps the client and therapist get an idea of where the tissues are stagnant (causing pain)
Removes toxins and stagnation caused by chronic muscle tightness
What to expect with cupping sessions?
Most massage therapists use silicone or plastic cups on the body, but some may use glass and fire technique
Some body areas will be more sensitive than others. COMMUNICATE with your therapist. If a cup is too tight, let the therapist know.
Stationary or stagnant. Cupping techniques vary. A therapist might move the cup around, for example, following the muscles around your shoulder blades, or they might put multiple cups on the area and leave them in place. Again, communicate and let your therapist know what feels better or worse. You know your body best.
Notice the differences in the colors of the marks.
This shows where the client may be having some more pain or stagnation issues in their tissues.
Cupping Marks
“Kisses” are what I like to call the marks the cups leave behind. Some people ask if cupping hurts because of the way the marks look afterwards.
But in fact, cupping does not cause pain! While they tend to resemble bruises, the marks left are just a sign that you have congestion in your tissues there.
The colors may vary, ranging from light pink/red, all the way to almost dark purple/black.
The darker the color, the more stagnation is present.
Marks can last anywhere from 3-10 days!
Extra information
Cupping can help the client and the therapist get more done in less time! Which means you leave feeling better than you could’ve thought.
Some therapists may have you perform certain stretches and movements with the cups on in order to maximize results.
Cupping is not suitable for those who are on blood thinners or other heart diseases.
I hope this helps answer some questions about this awesome bodywork modality. If you have any other questions feel free to comment below or reach out on instagram @align815!