Cupping
Cupping is a term applied to a healing technique that uses small glass cups or bamboo jars to apply suction to the tissues and skin. These devices are placed to disperse and break up stagnation by drawing congested blood/energy/fluids to the surface, thereby increasing blood/energy flow to the area for healing and conversely removing any toxic build up in the tissues.
The effects are similar to that of a deep tissue massage, although in this instance the muscles and fascia are decompressed. Cupping will alleviate pain, and for most patients it is extremely relaxing and comforting. The philosophy behind cupping (and indeed any acupuncture related procedures) is that: ‘where there is stagnation there will be pain, by moving the stagnation you will remove the pain’. Cupping is therefore a method of breaking up a blockage of Qi to restore the body's natural flow of vital energy.
“I had acupuncture and cupping in China many years ago. After trying medication for my pain I opted to try it again in my hometown. After listening very carefully to my symptoms, Sue opted for cupping as the first approach to treat them. Following the initial feelings of pressure, it is very relaxing and I could really feel the suction working deeply. After three sessions with Sue my back feels the best it has done in years!”