Cupping Therapy

What is Cupping?

Cupping therapy is a safe and effective modality that involves utilizing round jars (often points or trigger points of the body for “suction release).” It is a non-invasive yet potent procedure that enhances lymphatic flow, promotes blood circulation, and opens up blocked pathways that often triggers inflammatory responses within the body. It is an ancient treatment modality of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) used for thousands of years to address myriad health concerns. The procedure requires the use of circular glass jars, bamboo cups, or plastic cupping tools. They are used to contract and pull the targeted myofascial layers of the skin, creating negative pressure and release body toxins that otherwise cause inflammation or creates blockage within the blood circulation within the body. Cupping therapy is generally painless, and its result is often remarkable, mainly when used in conjunction with acupuncture.

What are the different types of Cupping?

There are two types of Cupping Dry Cupping and Cupping massage. Dry Cupping is a method that involves cupping in a fixed position to create a moderate to high-level vacuum effect. It is the most common method of cupping therapy. Also, called traction cupping or sliding cupping, cupping massage is a myofascial release technique that provides excellent pain relief similar to a deep-tissue massage. We do both types of cupping at Yihan Sap.

Is cupping good for you?

Cupping is generally safe when applied by trained professionals on people who are otherwise healthy. It is not recommended for people with health problems due to side effects. For example, cupping therapy isn’t suitable for pregnant or menstruating women, people with metastatic cancer, and bone fractures or muscle spasms.

What are the side effects?

Unlike the drugs, medicines, and operations which will have side effects. Cupping therapy is free from any side effects. Except for a few marks which will come due to the stagnation of blood which will remain for a few days you may feel lightheaded or dizzy shortly after your session.

What is the deal with the purple marks?

Cupping causes the skin to temporarily turn red, blue, or purple, especially if there is an injury or energetic blockage under the cupped area, but they are NOT Bruising. It is the expression of internal stagnation and congestion brought to the surface of the body. The marks can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks but are rarely painful.

Can I take a shower after cupping therapy?

We recommend avoiding taking a shower within 4 hours of the cupping therapy because your pores are still open and it is important not to let exterior pathogens like wind, cold or damp in.