What is cupping therapy?
Cupping therapy is an ancient healing technique. It is used for detoxification of the body while increasing blood flow through blocked areas. This form of alternative medicine has been used by the Chinese, Egyptians and Middle Eastern cultures for hundreds of years.
Generally, this treatment is performed as dry cupping. The alternative method is referred to as wet cupping (blood cupping), which is not as easily found in the States.
The difference between the two types of cupping is that for wet cupping, the skin is pricked before a cup is placed. The dabble of blood that surfaces provides the wetness.
Wet cupping therapy is believed to help eliminate toxins in the blood in congested areas. Once cleared of toxins, healthy blood is able to reach all cells and tissues.
Benefits
Although there are several benefits of cupping, the primary benefit is the overall detoxification of the body. Detoxification ranks in importance because it assists the immune system and encourages overall health.
There are other cupping therapy benefits. Some include: anti-aging help with the reduction of fine lines via face cupping, the relief of asthma and bronchitis, lifting of depression, and establishing a healthier digestive system. The last benefit thereby assists in digestive disorders and other gastrointestinal issues.
Additionally, another option is using cupping for cellulite. It works because it detoxifies the area where the cups are placed. Using a cellulite cupping kit for cupping at home as instructed, is something you can do to help reduce appearance of cellulite. Although it won’t last forever, this quick-fix cellulite treatment should get you through the weekend with fewer unsightly dimples.
If you are pregnant or have any health issues or concerns, consult your physician prior to applying any cupping treatment.
What to expect
So when asking what does cupping do, well, in short, it detoxifies the body. Here, we explain what to expect from cupping therapy for a better understanding of the process involved.
Both methods of cupping are relaxing treatments. Despite any minor discomfort that may be experienced, it does not detract from the overall relaxation achieved. A cupping treatment generally lasts for about 30 minutes, but may go longer.
To start with, the therapist might use any of the following: bamboo cups, glass cups or silicone cups for your cupping treatment.
You will disrobe and may start out lying on your back or on your stomach for this treatment. If you are pregnant, please consult with your physician prior to receiving this type of treatment.
Advise your therapist of any medical concerns (providing your physician has approved the therapy), before they begin. Knowing where to place the cups may depend on your medical situation.
Placing the cups
Your therapist will heat glass cups first for dry cupping. For wet cupping, they will prick the skin first and then heat the cups, prior to placing them.
Once the skin is prepared (oil may or may not be used) and the cups are heated, they will then place them on the soft areas of your back or stomach.
If silicone cups are used, then a pump will replace the need for the heat. When the heat cools, it initiates the vacuum. This is what creates the suction and gentle pulling sensation on the skin, as seen in the photo above.
Many therapists still prefer using clear glass cups. This allows for easier monitoring of the skin while the cups work. The cups will be left in one place for approximately ten minutes.
The power of the suction penetrates approximately four inches into the body. This is why cupping is often compared to acupuncture. The treatments are similar in their affects on the points, clearing blockages within the meridians, and increasing both blood and energy flow.
After your treatment and how often to receive cupping therapy
After your cupping therapy, you will be very relaxed. Cupping is a detox method so you will need to assist the detoxification process started by the treatment by drinking plenty of water.
Expect to be tender and see cupping marks where the cups were placed on your body. These cupping bruises are nothing to be alarmed about. However, they may take up to a week to disappear. Plan accordingly, in case you were going to attend a pool party or special event wearing a backless gown.
How often you receive a cupping treatment will vary, depending on why you are having it. Discuss options with your therapist.
If you are simply incorporating it into your detox program, once a week may be appropriate. If, however, you are trying to resolve a medical issue or concern, the frequency of your treatments will depend on your situation.
As previously noted, if you have physical conditions that are being treated, blood disorders or are on medications, please consult your physician.
Categories for Cupping Therapy
Alternative Therapies
Detox Methods
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