The Ancient Art of Cupping
What is cupping?
Cupping is an ancient healing technique that involves using suction to increase circulation to various tissues.
In ancient times, cupping was achieved through the use of fire to create a vacuum inside of a bamboo “cup”. Today, fire cups are still used, as well as a modernized version which utilizes a pump to create the vacuum.
Cupping has many different benefits for the body’s wellbeing. Perhaps most commonly, cupping is used to relieve muscle pain and tension. Sometimes I refer to cupping as a “backward massage”, for instead of pushing on the muscle tissues in the body, we’re pulling on them. The pulling sensation of the cups also has a significant effect on the tissues. Unlike most daily activities in our lives, cupping allows for space within the tissues. Generally speaking, as we move about a typical day, we are in a constant state of compression. Our weight as well as gravity are constantly putting pressure on our tissues. Massage is extremely effective at releasing muscle tension, however it too utilizes this same type of pressure. When we use a vacuum to pull the muscles away from the bones, we create a unique state of space for these tissues. This allows for a specialized form of release and relaxation that is difficult to achieve with any other modality.
Along with this muscle tension release, cupping also helps blood circulation to these tissues. When we place a cup onto a site in the body, the vacuum and pulling sensations help draw blood circulation to that area. Muscle, tendon, and ligament health are dependent on proper circulation. Inflammation, the most common and well-known cause of pain, is eased by proper circulation. The natural permeation of blood within these tissues helps draw inflammation away from affected sites, and replenishes these sites with fresh oxygenated blood. It is through this cycle that muscles, tendons, and ligaments are able to heal and repair. Cupping is excellent at promoting this natural cycle, thus reducing inflammation and relieving pain.
What causes the purple spots?
Contrary to popular belief, the purple spots that are left by cupping are not bruises. Although they may look like they are painful, generally they don’t hurt at all. They are, in fact, the remnants of a muscle knot beneath the surface. When we have knotted up muscles, what we are actually feeling is the lack of circulation to that area. Muscles require fresh, oxygenated blood to keep them relaxed and healthy; but when we experience frequent tension, these muscles start to tighten up, inhibiting the blood flow through these muscle fibers. This results in what we call a knot. Just like in bruises, blood that is cut off from its oxygen source starts to become purple. When we see these purple marks on the body, what we are seeing is the old blood being pulled out of the muscle knot which then makes room for new, fresh blood to take its place. So when you see these purple markings, don’t be scared! It’s a sign that your muscle knot is being released and your muscles are receiving the oxygen they need for relaxation and health.
What else is cupping good for?
Although pain is the most well-known symptom for which cupping is utilized, there are many other benefits from cupping. Cupping has been shown to help relieve stress, aid sleeping, and increase immunity. It has also been used to improve digestion and aid the body in detoxification. It can also help you fight off a cold or flu more quickly!
In general, most people really enjoy the sensation of cupping. The cups shouldn’t be so tight that they pinch and hurt - they should actually feel soothing and releasing. In fact, most people literally feel the tension ebbing away during a cupping treatment.
Cupping is offered as a part of an acupuncture session when applicable and it can also be booked as a stand alone treatment.