Cupping Massage
What is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy is an alternative massage technique that includes the use of cups at a certain point on the skin to create suction. The roots of cupping therapy, also known as myofascial decompression, come from traditional Chinese medicine.
In recent years, cupping therapy has gained significant popularity among celebrities and athletes as a way to enhance blood circulation and promote immune system activation.
If you are open to trying different types of massage therapy that can help you relieve muscle tension, improve overall blood flow and promote cell repair cupping therapy may be the right choice.
How Does Cupping Therapy Work?
During the cupping therapy, special cups are placed on the skin to create a vacuum to stimulate the underlying tissues and promote various physiological responses. Cups are usually warmed by flame or manually to cause necessary negative pressure in the cups and induce suction. As the cups create suction, the skin, and superficial muscle layers are drawn upward into the cup, creating a space between the underlying tissues and the cup.
The suction created by the cups helps to dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow to the area. This enhanced blood circulation brings fresh oxygen and nutrients to the tissues while removing metabolic waste products and toxins.
Your cupping session may last from 10 minutes to an hour depending on the type of cupping treatment you choose.
At Yukie Natory Salon and Spa, we use warm far-infrared light that helps to relax the body and improve blood flow.
You should know that the suction force from cupping breaks opens tiny blood vessels under the skin. You will have round bruiselike marks that fade in a week or two.
Benefits of Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy offers several potential benefits, and some commonly mentioned benefits of cupping therapy are:
Pain relief
Cupping therapy is often used to ease pain and discomfort by blood flow stimulation which can alleviate conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and muscle soreness.
Improve blood circulation
Cupping increases blood circulation to the area where the cups are placed. This increased blood flow may promote the delivery of oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells to the tissues, aiding healing. It is similar to the effects of deep tissue massage.
Detoxification
The suction applied during cupping can draw stagnant fluids to the skin’s surface, facilitating their elimination and potentially promoting detoxification and lymphatic drainage stimulation. You can always combine lymphatic drainage massage and modern cupping to improve the function of the lymphatic system.
Muscle relaxation
Cupping therapy can help to relieve muscle tension and stiffness because the pressure applied on the skin by cups can help loosen fascial restrictions, break up adhesions, and promote flexibility.
Stress reduction
Many people find cupping therapy a relaxing and calm experience.
Body relaxation
The physical sensations associated with cupping can contribute to a sense of body relaxation and the potential release of endorphins.
Well-Being promotion
Cupping therapy offers a holistic approach to the body, promoting overall well-being and a general sense of rejuvenation after cupping sessions.
What are the types of cups?
Different techniques and variations exist for performing cupping therapy. Here are some common types of cupping therapy:
Dry Cupping is traditional cupping therapy where warm cups are placed and left on the skin for a specific duration, usually about 15 minutes to induce suction.
Wet Cupping known as “bleeding cupping” or “hijama,” involves creating small incisions or scratches on the skin after the cups are applied. This process enables a controlled withdrawal of a specific amount of blood from the suctioned area.
Massage Cupping includes the oil or lotion application on the skin before the therapist places the cup. This technique combines the benefits of cupping with the therapeutic effects of massage.
The Flash Cupping technique aims to stimulate blood circulation by fast placing and removing cups in rapid succession.
Fire Cupping. During the cupping session, the therapist briefly introduces a flame into the cup to create suction before placing it on the skin.
Silicone Cupping is a modern variation of cupping therapy that involves using silicone cups because they offer more control over suction intensity, and can easily glide on the skin.
Dry Cupping vs Wet Cupping Therapy
Dry cupping and wet cupping are the two most familiar cupping methods that differ in their approach and technique. The choice between wet and dry cupping depends on individual preferences, specific goals, and consultation with a qualified practitioner.
The main difference between these cupping techniques is that wet cupping involves creating small incisions on the skin, allowing controlled bloodletting aims to remove “congested” or “harmful” blood from the body. Wet cupping may also leave marks from both cupping and bloodletting.
At Yukie Natory Salon and Spa, we perform dry cupping focused on blood circulation, pain relief, and relaxation. And we recommend adding deep tissue massage to increase the results of cupping treatment, especially if you want to reduce pain and increase local blood flow.
Cupping Massage Therapy: Is It Right for You?
If you are searching for alternative or complementary treatments for certain conditions, cupping therapy is the solution. Cupping therapy brings many benefits in pain relief, especially with muscle soreness, muscle aches, back pain, knee pain, and neck pain. It is also great for the relaxation of muscle tightness, stiffness, or muscle tension. Also, for those looking for a non-invasive and potentially calming treatment, cupping therapy might be an option.
Besides this cupping therapy may be an option to treat some conditions as:
Musculoskeletal Pain and musculoskeletal injuries
Chronic Pain Conditions
Rheumatoid arthritis
Diabetes mellitus
Respiratory problems
Digestive disorder
Skin problems such as acne, eczema, and cellulite
Stress and anxiety
You should know that we provide cupping therapy by a qualified practitioner and try to define cupping treatment according to individual needs and health conditions.
Who Should Avoid Cupping Therapy?
Cupping is generally safe, but people with some conditions should avoid this therapy. If you are not sure about cupping consult with a professional before undergoing cupping treatment, especially for these conditions:
Bleeding Disorders
Heart disease or people who are on blood thinners
Sensitive skin or have some skin infections
Pregnancy
Fractured or Broken Bones
Sunburn or other skin damage
Medical History of Seizures or Convulsions
Before treatment, you can consult with our experienced cupping practitioner to determine if cupping is suitable for you or if you should consider alternative treatment options.
Potential Side Effects and Aftercare
If you are worried about potential side effects you need to know that side effects of cupping are generally low and without any long-term complications.
As a potential side effect, you may experience skin discoloration because cupping leaves temporary circular marks. This therapy may cause temporary skin irritation, such as redness, swelling, or itching. For those who decide to treat the biggest area of the body, a feeling of lightheadedness or dizziness may occur.
You should know that proper aftercare can minimize potential side effects and help optimize your healing process.
After undergoing cupping therapy, try to keep the cupped area clean, avoid touching or sketching and stay away from high temperatures.
Stay hydrated by drinking water to help flush out toxins released during cupping therapy. Staying hydrated can support overall well-being and aid the body’s natural healing processes.
Book Your Cupping Session
If you are ready to experience the benefits of cupping therapy to alleviate pain, enhance relaxation, and promote overall well-being, book an appointment now.
Discover the ancient art of cupping with our qualified cupping practitioner can guide you through this holistic therapeutic journey.
At Yukie Natori Salon and Spa, we create a unique spa experience by combing beauty and massage treatments.
Do not hesitate to call us today for your cupping session.
