Cupping

Cupping is a practice deeply rooted in Chinese medicine and is also common in other indigenous healing traditions. Similar to gua sha, cupping helps to move blood and qi (vital energy) within the body, aiding in the release of stagnation—often thought of as blocked or stuck energy (2).

This technique involves placing glass, rubber or plastic cups on the body to create suction, which in turn helps relieve tension and relax the body (2). The method and approach to cupping vary depending on the specific condition being treated.

At Ashra Integrative Medicine, we utilize a variety of cupping techniques, including traditional fire cupping. In this method, a small flame is briefly placed inside the cup to create suction before it is applied to the body. This process generates a gentle warmth that helps to relax the patient. We also offer suction cupping and slide cupping using rubber cups, each tailored to meet individual needs.

For facial treatments, slide cupping is particularly effective. It can enhance skin appearance by lifting and brightening, thanks to improved blood circulation to the treated areas. Overall, cupping is beneficial for managing chronic pain (1), sports injuries (2), osteoporosis (2), and more.

References

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmid/30462793/
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7793847/

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