What Is Cupping?
Cupping is an ancient Chinese therapy that’s based on the belief that certain health problems are caused by stagnant blood and a poor energy flow through your body. Cupping targets areas of inflammation to reduce pain and muscle tightness throughout the body.
How Does Cupping Work?
Cupping practitioners apply cups which can be made out of typically glass or silicone, to your skin to create a pressure that sucks your skin inward. The pressure that the cups create draws blood to the affected area, increasing your blood flow and circulation, relieving muscle tension and reducing inflammation.
Benefits
Relieves pain
Reduces inflammation
Loosens tight muscles
Detoxifies the body
Promotes sleep
What Does Cupping Feel Like?
It feels like a deep tissue massage and can be quite relaxing. The heat from the glass cups that are applied with fire make for a warm and soothing feeling.
Side Effects
Cupping may leave large bruises on your back that will last about a week. You'll also want to steer clear of cupping if you’re on blood thinners, have trouble with bleeding or clotting, or you have an open wound.