Within the realm of massage therapy, one method that is quite often used in Asia is cupping therapy. I noticed it is not as popular in the US or Western countries. But as the name suggests, this form of therapy relies on the use of glass or plastic cups which the massage therapist uses to create localized pressure by a vacuum. This is an ancient Chinese method of therapy in which heat is used inside glass or bamboo cups. However, in recent times, cupping therapy uses suction instead of heat to create the vacuum inside the cups. The vacuum that is created facilitates the forming of blood in the area in which the cup is placed and that aids in healing the area. Whilst regular massage uses compression, cupping works in an opposite manner in which it suctions and lifts. It can penetrate as deep as four inches into the body’s tissues allowing for stimulation of blood flow and release of toxins.

Cupping therapy is derived from ancient Chinese medicine in which it was believed that the body was divided into Meridians. Meridians are pathways in the body through which the energy of life, called the chi, flows. The chi is believed to flow through all of the body’s tissues, organs and body parts. In general, cupping therapy is performed on the back since there are five meridians located on our backs and when these five meridians are opened, the energy that lies within the body is able to flow throughout the body and bring about healing.

Cupping also aids in the release of toxins form the body. The process of accumulation of lymph, blood or fluids in the body is referred to as stagnation. The release of toxins occurs as a result of the suction that is used in this form of therapy. The suction from the cups is able to penetrate deep into the body’s tissues and cause the tissues to release harmful toxins that have accumulated in the tissues of the body. The lymphatic system is also triggered and that helps to clear the blood vessels while stretching and activating the skin.

One of the benefits of cupping therapy is that it reduces the pain that is felt in the body since pain it believed to be caused by problems with the chi. This pain may be the result of stress in the body, hormonal imbalances, fluid imbalances, inadequate blood flow and temperature in the muscles and joints. The act of placing a suction cup on the area that is affected creates warmth and circulation in the area. This result in the dissipation of tension and you would experience a reduction in pain.

Another important facet of Chinese medicine is that it is believed that all organs are interconnected. Therefore, if there is a problem with one organ, it would be manifested in other parts of the body as well. Since cupping target all of the five meridians of the body, it is believed that its healing powers are extremely valuable. There are many benefits to cupping therapy and it has been used in the treatment of many illnesses. Some of these include constipation, diarrhea, headaches, back pains, skin problems, menstrual problems, arthritis, weight problems etc.

My family and I use it often, it helps to treat minor conditions I mentioned earlier. Invest in the right cupping therapy set, you will enjoy the benefits it bring to yourself or your family.

Read more on other types of massage therapy like bamboo therapy here.

Segnala presso: